Chapter 1: The Essence of Health

When you search for "healthy" on Google, the definition that appears is simply "in good health." This concept may seem straightforward, yet many people have not truly contemplated what it entails. Upon further reflection, it becomes clear that many are uncertain about how to define or measure their health effectively.

Most of us have grown up believing that being "healthy" correlates with having a Body Mass Index (BMI) within a specific range. If your body mass relative to your height fits within this range, your doctor might have labeled you as healthy.

In other instances, we are led to believe that health is tied to physical attributes, such as having defined abs or shapely legs, or by achieving certain fitness benchmarks, like running a mile in under seven minutes. Some people feel pressured to fit into specific clothing sizes or to monitor their waist measurements as indicators of health.

A prevalent misconception I encounter is the belief that "If you are at XYZ weight/size/fitness level, then you are healthy." Many individuals equate their health with numerical values—weight, clothing sizes, endurance capabilities, or the weight they can lift. However, this one-size-fits-all approach to health is flawed.

How can your parent, sibling, neighbor, or child possibly gauge their health using the same metrics you do?

What often escapes people as they embark on their health journeys is the importance of defining what being healthy means for them personally. The societal standards we often rely on do not hold true across the board. Instead of accepting numbers blindly, we must explore and understand our unique health narratives.

What would health feel like for you?

How might your daily life change?

What activities would you engage in?

What could you accomplish?

By answering these questions, you can establish a solid foundation for your health journey. I assure you, your ultimate goal likely extends beyond a mere clothing size; it's something far more significant. Once this realization dawns on us, we can navigate our health journeys with greater clarity and purpose.

Chapter 2: Embracing Health Through Cultural Insights

To cultivate a healthier lifestyle, consider drawing inspiration from Japanese philosophies and practices. They emphasize finding balance, fulfillment, and wellness within your own body. Stay updated and gain access to free resources by signing up here!

The first video titled "Obsessed With Eating Healthy? BEWARE Of These Warning Signs" discusses the pitfalls of an overly restrictive diet and how it can impact your overall well-being.

The second video, "The Most Missed Healthy Food Intolerances | Jay Shetty and Dr. Will Cole," highlights common food intolerances that many overlook, emphasizing the importance of understanding what works for your body.