Being a registered nurse for over twenty years, I am very health oriented. Having been diagnosed with insulin dependent diabetes has made me even more conscious of my health. I’ve learned a few things along the way, and I’m learning more daily. One thing for sure, your health must be approached holistically.

When you look at health holistically, you take into account your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health. It’s impossible to be truly healthy if you are only addressing one facet, while neglecting the others.

This is understandably daunting if you have not lived mindfully. Your life can change for the better if you take care of yourself in every area, every day.

It does take mindfulness, though. Every action, thought, or behavior has to be examined. It takes time. It takes effort! It means being realistic of where you are, and where you need to be.

I’m at a place where my primary concern is stable blood sugars. I know food affects my blood sugar – but so does stress, sleep, illness and medication, to name a few.

I can only control what I can control – so I remove myself from stressful situations, if possible. I’m getting more sleep. I literally am accountable for everything I eat. I drink a lot of water. I take the medications I need to.

I also am increasing my exercise, as I am able to with my blood glucose. I’ve bought books and am learning all I can about the diabetes.

I’m also taking care of myself for the first time with an eye toward good stewardship. I spent years emotionally eating, and it’s been a hard habit to break.

It’s all about balance – being kind to myself, but not falling into the unconditional love of self trap. Self care to take care of the temple God gave me, but not worshipping the vessel.

Poor choices on any one area will impact my life, regardless of how successful I am in another area of my life.

It really is about the big picture.