Health is your Wealth

Health is Wealth is what I explore in this weeks' episode because nothing is more valuable than your well-being. Joinme as I explore practical tips, insights and a few stories that may empower you to take charge of your physical, mental, and emotional health. 

Tune in and invest in your greatest asset: You! 

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Transcript

E106 - Health is your Wealth.wav

What's up, my beautiful people? Oh, my gosh. Today is such a beautiful day. I'm recording this on a Saturday and I've been a Domestic Goddess before. I head out tonight for a nice little party. I've washed the car, been and bought some food so I can make it all nice and seasoned for tomorrow because I've got a bike. Tried to go on and I'm going to be tired after tonight so I thought let me do it all today and I've worked out before I even get to this podcast. And you know what I've worked. I've worked hard. 

And the whole episode today is about health. Is your wealth. So today I'm going to do a semi deep dive into the powerful truth. We often overlook. Health is wealth which is a common proverb or a statement. What's it really mean and why does it matter? More than ever. Health is wealth is the true currency of life. What's the point of success if you don't have the health to enjoy it? And I'm sure you're seeing people around you now and you think God. Have you seen so and so or heard about ex. Their health is so bad and even me, I've got some things going on with me at the moment and I am just maximising. 

Trying to get everything back on track because without your. Self your life is very debilitated and in my previous podcast episode, not the one before this quite a while ago I did a deep dive into mental health, so I'm not really going to focus on that, even though that has got unbelievable figures in the UK of how many people are having mental health problems for whatever reason, and when we think about our health, it's a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or physical or mental weakness. 

So I'm going to focus for this episode. On everything but the mental for the reasons I've just said. Please go back and revisit an episode and I dedicated it to one of my friends and I wanted to get into this one quite heavily because in a few weeks time I'm going to be interviewing a panel of women about the menopause. So any gents that listen in, you may learn something. If you've got a partner, sister or Mother going through it, we're going to be talking everything about the menopause, and I can't wait because I'll have a pelvic floor specialist as well. 

Anyway I just want to give a few bits and pieces on health issues affecting the UK because it is shocking. Smoking. I think we all know. Know about smoking and particularly when people were smoking. Sorry, people were smoking in places and you ended up becoming a passive smoker. I used to smoke many moons ago. Some people who are listening to this that know me may be very shocked. But I was a little bit of a rebel after I did my career in athletics. And I did everything, you know, not drugs. I have to say. But I did smoke and smoking rates remain elevated among certain groups. Particularly those in manual and routine jobs. And it's funny, you know, because every time I see the bin men or the road sweepers, everybody's got a flag in their mouth. So it's not just, you know, those with poor mental health. You know, it's a drug. Nicotine is a drug that they can use. The thing is, I'm not joking. In the UK, a packet of 20. Cigarettes. It's nearly £10, and that is a lot of money. So the price of smoking has gone up. 

The other big one is alcohol. Alcohol related deaths are on the increase. And you know, you do see it. I go into the local off licence people coming out of the little dark seedy bags, you know, in the US it's the brown bag. You're not allowed to have alcohol on the street and you know, it's easy because some of it is cheap booze and you see some people who living on the street, but the alcohol and I do love my wine and a little drink. But I do have to think about that. And curbing the amount of alcohol that's being taken in, not that I'm an alcoholic. 

Physical inactivity. Remember, these are health issues affecting the UK. I'm gonna come on to this a bit later, but there has been a radical decline in physical activity levels compared to the past. Why is that? Is it because? There's more exciting things on television. Our younger generation are now all online playing games and not getting out. It's really scary. And then long term physical conditions. Such as diabetes, asthma, arthritis. I mean, diabetes is a huge one here. At the moment, our significant concern and and they affect the mental health as well. And then it's funny the other day a friend had said to me, is there something in the air because suddenly I seem to have hay fever. Now I've suffered with hay fever all my. Life, but there have been more and more reports in the UK about air pollution and it's linked to various health problems and remains a still a big concern and there was this young woman that actually took one of our local councils, which is like a borough to court because her daughter died from. Air polluted health problem. This, and I think there is because sometimes I go out and it's just like, Oh my God, and even no cars. New cars are not as polluting. There are other things in the air. 

So let me get on to health. Is your wealth then and what does it really mean? Let's let's put this into a little bit of perspective. Imagine you had a billion dollars. But you couldn't walk or breathe without pain or sleep through the night. Would that money mean anything? Because at the end of the day, it can buy you all the best doctors, nurses, medical treatment, everything. But if you can't even walk and you can't sleep and you can't breathe. Then it is meaningless, and I think this is where we have to get things into perspective. When you walk down the street, do you take note of how many people look like they're walking with a limp or they're in these in our, in this country there's bloody buggies because they've got mobility issues. And that's all fine, right? Some are genuine. But you do think actually, if you're taking care of yourself, depending because I'm not going to get shouted down, so I'm going to put a caveat, depending on how you got to that stage where your life now is running around in an electric buggy trying to run meat over. Could you have been more mobile with your life? Could you have done more? It doesn't take much and even this week, for example, I thought OK, because I trained six days a week, I've replaced one of my training sessions that while I was  without my bike, I thought there's a cardio session and it's usually a walk and I haven't done one this week. But what I do do? I used to be quite lazy in terms. Sort of run to this shop. That's literally less than a 10 minute walk. I jump in the car because I couldn't be bothered. I don't do any of that anymore. I walk, but I do love walking, so it's not just about money. It's really not. But think about those times where you could just get a bit of fresh air and I get all antsy. 

Now, This is why I love to lock down. Because you were forced to go out and walk because there was nothing else to do and health isn't just about the absence of disease, it's the energy to chase your goals. The clarity to make those smart decisions, the strength to show up for the people you love. Of our bodies are our vehicles through life, and unlike a car, we can't trade them in when they break down and when they shut down. That is it and yes. A car can have a new tyre. You can get a new heart, but all that false stuff that's keeping your body going is going to give up some day, isn't it? And I think this health of health is your wealth kind of statement highlights that physical and mental well-being are far more valuable than material possessions. A healthy body and mind. Are essential for fulfilling that life that you crave, and it enables individuals to enjoy relationships. Pursue their passions and contribute to society in whatever way you want. Good health is the foundation upon which other aspects of life, including wealth, can be built and enjoyed. But let me just talk some numbers for a minute. Poor health costs, the global economy, trillions of dollars every year, especially in the US. Alone. Did you know that chronic diseases account for 90% of healthcare spending? I mean, that's absolutely insane. And let's not get into the states with unless you've got private health, you're not getting getting seen anyway. And I think this is where I've learned over the years how important it was. Have Obamas care? Healthcare, I mean. But that's just ridiculous. And and I'm not being funny that some people that I see in the States and depending on the economics of a state obesity man and the and the food and what goes on the plate it almost I almost lose weight when I go to the states unless I'm in New York. Because they're they're at the forefront of everything. But you know, honestly, I don't know. It's not just about the system, it's personal. Missed days of work, low energy, brain fog, burnout. They're all the taxes that we pay when we neglect our health. So think of it this way. Every time you choose to sleep well, move your body or eat something nourishing. You are making a deposit into your wealth account. Now, I love that. Don't you think so? It's time to prioritise your health. Do the research. And go in armed with knowledge when seeking health profession. Optionals. They aren't gods, and I've got a friend at the moment who she has had some crap going on with her for the last nine months. Do you know she didn't even research and look up? She had a procedure to help her lose weight. And this has been the bane of her life now. So she's lost the weight, but she's got all these other health problems. And I said to her the other week, I said have you? Actually researched what it could be because when you go in to see these health professionals, you need to go in armed with knowledge and they all say don't look it up because Google is wrong and blah blah blah. But listen for me, I've gone in with suggestions with my sarcoidosis, which is an inflammatory disease. About what? This cough could be that I keep getting or having or have had because I look it up now, they'll be able to put me right, but don't go in there like a a floppy doll and just let them tell you. Well, I believe you got this that the other and we have to go in cause they're not gods, right. They get things wrong. They're seeing a thousands and thousands of people. At a time. So go in there and when you prioritise your health, this means. Even though I'm going to have to, uhm, contradict this statement, having regular checkups and it's funny as I've got older, you get called in for bowel cancer tests. I keep getting notes from my General practitioner this I'm saying that for everybody outside the UK, which is a GP, a doctor basically says right, you'll do your annual checkup or your. Quarterly checkup or whatever it is, I'm not going because I've had so many visits to the doctor in the last. Year I am over it and I've had everything tested. More blood has gone out of my body than probably I'm producing more scans have done so I've probably got radiology effects all through my body and everything else, so I'm not going in to have any more. But my point is, if you don't have your cheques, your blood's done weight everything else. Get it done, because when those sneaky little horrible things come out of the blue and you think Oh my God, I wish I'd have. Don't wait. And especially if you've got men in your. Wife, brothers, sons, Da, da, da dads. Granddads. Get them in there because they need to push to go to the doctor. There's only one person I know in my circle that he's like a hypochondriac. He's always in there and he rinses out because we private health insurance in the UK usually comes with a job and he absolutely. I'm gonna go to the doctor's today, cause I think I've got a little bit of I can feel a little dizziness in my back. I mean, honestly, what this brother comes out with is ridiculous. But my point is I'm glad he does do it because he goes if he can feel a bloody spot, he thinks it's cancer. But also, you know, if you're not happy with the diagnosis, get a second opinion when the need arises. Eating a balanced diet also really helps. And I always love meal prepping. So today I woke up and I thought right, I need some different salads next week, so I've already done my list. It's very rare. I'll go into the supermarket and not know what I want to prepare and make, even though. Of these ad hoc moments like to tomorrow I want roast chicken. So I thought, let me go and buy the chicken today and then it can season overnight and that's what I'm going to have after I've been for a big old bike ride with my mate tomorrow and stuff. But you know, eating that balanced diet really helps. And the other Big 1. And I think I mentioned this at least twice in this conversation today. Get physical daily, be it a quick walk with or without your pooch or friends. Go to the gym, swim cycle, anything that raises your heart rate a little bit. The list is endless, really. You know, for me, you don't have to engage with people all the time, but engage in that mind, body and soul is beautiful, cause the endorphins and there's science behind it, start talking to people. Don't stay stum about stuff. Seek guidance when needed. Someone will listen and not be judgy. Candid conversations are crucial. If you've got any concerns about your health and just going back to the workout which I said endorphins clears your mind, think about that or how a good night's sleep can change your entire. Your mood. That's not just in your head, it is, but it's also about science. As I said, exercise releases endorphins, sleep improves memory and emotional regulation. A balanced diet supports brain health, and it's funny. The other day I was going for this job and I didn't sleep very well at all. And I was mashed up the next day so my mental clarity was off, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. But think about mental clarity, emotional resilience, creative thinking. These are all forms of wealth and they start with your physical well-being. So there's 10 reasons that I kind of found well, 10 reasons why health is your wealth, good health is often considered the greatest wealth because it underpins many aspects of well-being. Enhance productivity. When you're healthy, you have more energy and focus, leading to increased productivity across all areas of life, be it work, be it at home. Whatever you're doing reduces stress. A healthier lifestyle can lower stress levels and improve mental well-being. I can't tell you, you know, just having these things that I've got at the moment. Which member? I've got Horners syndrome, which is where one of my. That's the one of most. Do they call it the sympathetic nerves in the body? It stopped working. That opens my eyelid. One side of my face is never sweats and my hands get really cold. And then I've got the sarcoidosis, the inflammatory thing which I'm having regulated all the time. Sorry. Regulated. Checked lung capacity. Breathing all this kind of stuff. That's why I push myself, particularly going on the bike rides and stuff. I love it. Improved mental Wellness, good health, positively impact your mental health. And as I said to you, I've done an episode on it. So go back and have a listen because when you've got great mental health, you have a better mood. You're not so anxious and you your confidence increases. They say you know better health longer lifespan, which makes sense, right when you know some people have been very sickly and they may have made it through a few times. Their life is probably going to be shortened or impeded by bad health. And it it's a it's a better quality of life in your later years, particularly because as we get older. That we think starts shutting down preventative care. Good health allows you to be more proactive in preventing illnesses and managing health conditions, reducing the need for costly treatments. And The thing is, if you're not on private. It's not even just costly, you could be waiting forever to get treatment. So this same said friend that's had this problem suddenly she's used her private health insurance from work, which she gets, and they've diagnosed it. They're getting her straight back in again in four days time. And then I think she will have the solution if it was on our National Health Service. What we have in the UK. Which is fantastic. It can take a long time, so you just need to be try and be preventative. You don't become a statistic standing in a queue to get. Seen stronger relationships. Health allows you to participate more fully in social interactions and strength and relationships with family and friends, and you get more confidence, physical fitness and good health can boost your esteem. Your self esteem and confidence and impact positively on other aspects of life. Life better sleep, healthy habits like exercise and a balanced diet, of course, can lead to better sleep, which is absolutely essential for your mental and physical well-being. And I think I only need 6 hours. I think I've only ever needed six hours and I'm an early bird as well. I can go out the night before. And get in. Let's say I get get in let's say Harper's four. I can still be up at 9:00 no problem. But I know some people can sleep all day, all day. Too long, so finishing off because this is going to be a nice short and sweet one. There's five practical habits you can start today, my beautiful people hydrate like it's your job. Start your day with maybe some hot water, which I do, and a slice of lemon. And then I've always got water with me now drinking all the time, mainly because I keep getting this bloody. I've got this cough. But water. I love it. I don't do any sweet drinks at all apart from wine, because white wine is sweet. But I don't have red bean I don't have. Orange juice. None of it. I just have water. Try and move daily. It doesn't have to be a marathon. But you know what, a 15 to 20 minute walk counts. And if you can get your steps up, that would be even better. Prioritise your sleep. Guard it like your most valuable appointment and I must admit I started to get into bed a lot earlier. What I need to do is to turn my television off cause I have it a second screen. I don't even watch it. Be mindful about your eating, slow down, chew and savour your food. I've got this friend. I just said you don't need a knife and fault, do you just tip the whole plate in your mouth. I've never seen anybody eat so fast. Put your knife and fork down in between mouthfuls. Rest, chew. If you're out to dinner, talk. But put your knife and fork down. No one's gonna run off your food and breathe. Literally a few deep breaths can reset. Your stress response. These aren't radical changes I'm talking about, but like compound interest, the benefits grow over time. I do hope some of these have made sense on health as your wealth and final thoughts. Have you ever thought about? Doing a health audit, hopefully like you do for your finances. I'm mentioning as you get older, you know, as I said to you before you get floods of messages from the doctor saying you're eligible for this. But do it. Think about it. You are your most valuable asset, your energy, your clarity, your presence. That's your real wealth. Everything else, the cars, the status, the titles, they go away, but your health carries you through it all. Ask yourself if your body were your only bank account, how would you treat it differently? Because in the end, health is not a luxury, it's the foundation. And the best part? You can start building it right now. So my beautiful people, as I mentioned earlier, the next episode will be about the menopause and I can't wait to talk with inside out. Health oil, have a health shop in Reigate, and we are joined by somebody who's been through the menopause as bad as me. And I think I'm coming through the other side and also a pelvic floor. Specialist. So please, please make sure you join in. That conversation, or rather, listen to that conversation, and if anybody's got any questions that they want to put forward before then, please do. Thank you so much for listening and have a wonderful day. Whatever day it is for you when you hear this podcast.