Hippocrates was a Greek physician, who is known as the father of modern medicine. He is quoted for saying: “Before you heal someone, ask him if he’s willing to give up the things that make him sick.”
This question speaks volumes, because it is such an important question that people should ask themselves when they want to be healthier and heal their bodies. Often people want to feel better but aren’t willing to give up the things impacting their health. Some people aren’t willing to do things that could help their health as well. You would think it would be easier, but it’s not for many people.
When you are not willing to give up the things that are essentially making you feel sick, you need to ask yourself why. The thing making someone sick could be addictive, a form of comfort, a means of connecting with others, or something else. Maybe the symptoms are not that severe. Some people identify themselves with their health issues and don’t feel comfortable being healthy. Giving up something that makes you sick could seem harder than it really is.
Then, you need to consider is how is the thing you should give up impacting your health. Make a pro and con list, so you can determine how it is affecting you. If you are unwilling to give up what makes you sick, then you really don’t want to heal. When you really want to feel better, you should be willing to give it a try. Sometimes it’s a matter of baby steps. Other times you may need to give it up cold turkey. It may be making a change or incorporating something into your routine. Remind yourself daily how this is affecting your health and what you don’t like about feeling that way.
Your health impacts your daily life. It affects your relationships with others, if you can work, whether you can enjoy your free time, how you go about your day, and so much more. Wouldn’t it feel better to have energy instead of constantly feeling like you need a nap? Wouldn’t it feel better to move, sit, or lie down comfortably without being in constant pain? Wouldn’t it feel better to function like a normal person? You need to be honest with yourself. Stop with the excuses and determine what you need to do to feel better.
Are the excuses worth being unhealthy? It’s up to you decide what you are willing to do. Maybe instead of making excuses to health recommendations, give them a try. It’s not easy to be healthy, but it’s a whole lot harder to be unhealthy. There are so many more negative ramifications in your daily life when you are unhealthy.
So, are you willing to give up what’s making you sick? Are you willing to do what it takes to feel better?
