I was contemplating how to implement sustainable change for not only my own health but that of our nation. After listening to hours of people making amazing changes overseas , creating a CULTURE of health emerged as the main theme.

‘What we aim to achieve’ vs ‘who we are’ , speaks to goals vs culture. A culture of health shifts our mindsets from, ‘health is what we do’ to `health is who we are`. Health has become this aspirational value, one that is always being chased and never seems to be caught. Remember Health is so much more than lean muscles and a bowl of salad.

When we begin to see health as who we are, it is easier to have our actions align to our values. Health is not a foreign concept, but do we identify with it as who we are?

What does this culture look like?

1. Knowledge – Making an effort to learn more about health. Stop googling your symptoms and start googling health!!
2. Nutrition – Zimbabwe is blessed with so many natural foods, many of us have fruit trees and vegetable gardens in our back yard. Remember when you don’t understand the words on the label, its probably not good for you.
3. Exercise – At least 20 minutes a day of exercise. There are so many activities to do in Zimbabwe. Fitness challenges, marathons and family days.
4. Stress management – Note I did not say stress removal but management. Take time out to find rest, spend time with loved ones, read a book, exercise etc. What ever works for you!
5. Social interaction – In the day and age of social media, face to face time has drastically reduced. We need social interaction to contribute to a healthier mind and hormonal state.

Will you create this culture with me?