Fact checked by Jim Lacy
Most of the world’s constitutions — 74%, according to the WORLD Policy Analysis Center — explicitly protect their citizens’ right to health. The U.S. Constitution does not.
As it stands today, you — not the U.S. government — are the one who must prioritize and care for your health. Have you given yourself this inalienable right? Let’s see.
Which statement below best describes your relationship with your health?
a. There’s no reason to make health a current priority.
b. I do the minimum to maintain my health.
c. Attending to my health depends on time and resources.
d. I continually expand and transform my concept and management of my health.
e. My health will take care of itself.
If you answered d, you can stop reading. Enjoy the outdoors or the gym, plan your next healthy meal, get together with friends, meditate. You’re doing great.
If your answer was anything else, read on.
Countries such as England, Germany, New Zealand, Finland, and Canada prioritize their citizens’ health, arguing that each individual’s good health benefits society. And some of the countries with the most robust healthcare systems also rank highest on the happiness index. Do you value your life, liberty, and ability to pursue happiness? Health is inextricably linked.
But don’t wait for our government to create a better health system. Make your health your business. Take my business plan as an example, and make it your own.
Start with a promise
Know why health matters to you. You might be a parent who wishes to be present, kind, and able to care for your family. Perhaps you’re a college student wanting to excel in school and create a successful future. Maybe you’re single, in your 40s or older, and want health to support your sense of safety, independence, and wellbeing. Whatever your reasons for wanting optimal health, write them down in mission or promise form. Here’s mine:
I, Kathleen Aharoni, intend to live a long, healthy, stress-free life that includes outdoor adventure; fulfilling relationships; agency; learning; confidence; freedom; the ability to give, receive, create, and manage resources; and exuding generosity and love. I attend to my health in all ways to ensure this intention.
List imperatives for supporting your promise
For 65-year-old me, according to my statement above, my imperatives include:
• Nutritious, homemade food and minimal alcohol
• Walking, movement, and strengthening to support my current and dreamed-of adventures
• At least eight hours of sleep per night
• Using my voice to ask for what I want and dismiss what I don’t
• Reducing stress — yes to me, and no to anxiety-producing situations and people
• Annual health checkups that include my honesty and curiosity, with follow-up tests and exams when necessary
• Brain health
• Thoughtful get-togethers with close friends
• A means to income and resources that are fulfilling and support my life
• Loving from love, not fear
• Remembering that I am loved and enough just as I am
Consider any obstacles
• Fear of lack — resources, time, mattering, health, connection, belonging
• Inability to find a doctor I like and trust
• Adherence to a self-narrative that leaves me closed to truth, possibility, and healthy relationships
• Unnecessarily putting others before myself
Write down how you will support your promise — and be specific
• Having the awareness and courage to choose myself at all decision points
• Staying wholly and continuously present
• Considering the counsel of wise friends, family, and colleagues
• Learning
• Breathing
• Maintaining financial awareness and prioritizing accordingly
• Seeking the truth
• Adapting
• Noticing and bringing joy, love, laughter, and innocence
Life and health are dynamic. Health changes, as do circumstances. Be sure to adjust your promise, imperatives, obstacles, and support as needed.
If you make your health your business, you may find yourself at the top of the happiness index.
Kathleen Aharoni is a movement and life coach, forest bathing guide, and author of the award-winning book I breathe my own breath! She has served on the faculties of Northwestern University and Columbia College. To learn more, visit thehumanecologist.com.
