If I had to ask you about the quality of life you desire, what would you think of? A big house, a fancy car, a nice body? I don’t think that there is anything wrong with desiring these things, but have you thought of things like emotional stability, enough energy to get stuff done in the day or healthy relationships?

The pursuit of an excellent quality of life through exercise, whole food and wholehearted living is fundamental. The hard truth is that these things are becoming more and more difficult to pursue! Food has become more processed, exercise is becoming more and more difficult to fit in to what feels like a tight schedule and pursuing wholehearted living in a stressful economy feels like a hopeless effort.

So why then do we eat right, exercise and pursue wholehearted living? Why are we the outliers that pursue health even when it’s the uncomfortable decision? Because we want a better quality of life. We may not be able to change our circumstances, but we can change how we physiologically and psychologically respond. Imagine a life where you can see an anxiety-stricken situation as less stressful, you are not depressed, you do not need to consume alcohol and caffeine to function optimally, you can be more productive and fulfill your commitments. Wouldn’t that be incredible? The good news is that studies are showing that exercise does just that. Exercise makes your experience of life better.

Not only does exercise make your life better but so does nutrition. When we consume whole foods such as olive oil, nuts, fruit, legumes and vegetables. Foods that contain antioxidative properties, fiber, omega 3, 6 and micronutrients, we improve our physical health, longevity and psychological health. In this state we are more likely to have healthier relationships and social interactions in our communities.

Wholehearted living is essentially understanding that we are imperfect, but we are also brave and worthy of love, connection and belonging. Its about owning our story with compassion, vulnerability, kindness and grace. Standing in the arena of life and engaging in exercise, healthy eating, knowledge of health, healthy relationships with our self and others despite the possibility of failing.