You Are the CEO of Your Health

Sometimes it’s easy to forget that our health is our greatest asset. In the hustle and bustle of modern society, it can even take a back seat. But not here, not in this community my friends. I know you’re here because you’re ready to put your health and wellness journey at the top of the line.

This particular topic is quite near and dear to my heart because it’s something that has come up at the core of my own health journey time and time again, and I think it’s something that is key for anyone else stepping into the world of healing, health, wellness, personal development, etc. and it’s this: YOU ARE THE CEO OF YOUR OWN HEALTH

Particularly in America, we are sold this idea that doctors know everything, Eastern medicinal ideas are woo-woo, drugs on drugs on drugs are safe despite the health warnings (i.e. “may cause high blood pressure, amnesia, anal bleeding, skin rash, death… are we kidding?!), and that if it hasn’t been approved by the questionable FDA, it’s considered “nonsense.”

I’m calling bullshit. Right here. Right now.

I never want to use this platform to get political, but I find the current state of our medical industry business to be a shadow of what it could be, and I’m disappointed.

Western medicine and medical doctors have their time and place. 100%.

I wasn’t going to slap some lavender oil on it, and hope for the best when I shattered my tibial plateau back in 2021. So as to be crystal clear, I don’t reject modern medicine. But I do think it needs some help, particularly in the realm of “treating the symptoms” with more and more drugs, instead of aiming at curing root causes of many of today’s biggest diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, auto-immune conditions, etc.

When it comes to finding that root cause, we can turn to something called FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE.

Functional medicine is a systems biology–based approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease, in which each symptom or differential diagnosis varies person to person.

Instead of looking at someone and saying okay, you have high blood pressure, and an A1C in diabetic range, let’s slap some medication on it, a functional medical doctor is going to look first at changing the lifestyle factors that contributed to those diseases to begin with, and invite you to make changes, and hopefully, prevent you from having to utilize risky medications altogether.

In an article from the Institute for Functional Medicine, they share how, “The functional medicine model evolved from the insights and perspectives of a small group of influential thought leaders who realized the importance of an individualized approach to disease causes based on the evolving research in nutritional science, genomics, and epigenetics.”

As the CEO of our own well-being, we hold the reins to navigate the complex landscape of healthcare choices, lifestyle decisions, and wellness practices.

So while there is a time and place to simply call your PCP, there is also a time and place to look into, and experiment for yourself, the benefits of things like herbalism, acupuncture/pressure, massage, sound bathing, saunas, food as medicine, and yes, even essential oils, and much more.

A few things to consider when taking charge of your own health:

1. Building Your Wellness Team: While most of us have a primary care physician (PCP), and hopefully a dentist, at the very least… Consider expanding your care team to include a litany of practitioners from optometrists, gynecologists (for women), nutritionists, dietitians, fitness coaches, psychologists, and any other specialist that could serve your needs, and answer questions about your concerns.
   
   My own wellness team looks like my PCP, dentist, optometrist, gyno, fitness and nutrition coach, my therapist, my orthopedist, and an allergist. I’m even considering getting in touch with an endocrinologist to do an even deeper dive on my PMDD diagnosis to understand my hormonal health, and take a look at what kinds of lifestyle changes I could make that might help contribute to the mitigation or elimination of those symptoms. Whatever your team looks like, let them support you, AND, never be afraid to ditch a doctor and get a second opinion. Remember, you are the CEO here.
   

2. Eastern Medicine: Eastern medicine offers a holistic approach to health, focusing on the interconnectedness of the Body, Mind, and Spirit (Ay, Full Circle Wellness!). When considering Eastern medicine, it's important to keep an open mind and understand its principles, which often involve practices like acupuncture, herbal medicine, yoga, and meditation. While some consider these practices to be woo-woo, let’s face it, unless you’re allergic… adding some herbs to your food and water, and drinking tea isn’t going to harm you, but it may very well help you.
   

3. Prioritizing Mental Health: I speak about this regularly, but I’ll say it here again. Mental wellness is the foundation of all other aspects of your health. Prioritize mental wellness by practicing self-care, seeking therapy when needed, and fostering healthy coping mechanisms for stress. This goes a LONG way in your overall wellness.
   

4. Supplements: Sometimes supplements get a bad rap, because many of them get sold as cure alls, or some you may come to find, are nothing but placebos. However… Like I said, there is a time and place for everything, and sometimes, a high quality supplement can add major benefits to your life! Remember that supplements should complement a balanced, nutritious diet and active lifestyle, not replace them. For example, I include a regular regimen of natural supplements in my routine including vitamins, Saffron (the spice), Holy Basil Leaf, Ashwaghanda (herbs), and adaptogenic mushrooms (food!).
   

5. Navigate Fad Wellness Practices with Caution: In the ever-evolving landscape of wellness trends, it's easy to be swayed by the latest fads and gimmicks, and as I mentioned above, this often shows up in the supplement industry. Before diving into any fad wellness practices, do your research, consult with experts, and listen to your body. What works for one person may not work for another, so prioritize practices that resonate with your values, goals, and overall health.
   

As the CEO of your own health and wellness, you have the power to steer your journey towards vitality, balance, and longevity.

By integrating Eastern medicine, building a supportive wellness team, prioritizing mental health, considering supplements, and navigating fad wellness practices with mindful discernment, you can cultivate a holistic approach to well-being that empowers you to thrive in every aspect of life.

Embrace your role as the CEO of your health journey, and watch how your relationship with yourself changes.

Be well,
L