Primary foods: Are you neglecting or taking care of your general health and well-being?

As mothers and wives, we sometimes forget that we should nurture ourselves as well as those we love. The days are never long enough and there is always one more thing on that “to do” list. Unfortunately, this leads us to neglect the needs of our body, mind and spirit, our main food.

The term “primary foods” was coined by IIN, the school where I studied, and refers to what feeds the soul: loving relationships, regular exercise, spiritual practice, and a fulfilling career. When the primary foods are in balance, everything else falls into place. It is important not to forget that food is only a source of nutrition. All parts of our lives affect our health as a whole.

Here are three ways to incorporate small changes into your life and receive big results:

1. Enjoy some quiet time every day – Take time every day to recharge. It could be reading a book, praying, meditating or journaling, it’s up to you. Try this simple exercise called Morning Pages (developed by Julia Cameron) to help start your day off right: Before you go to sleep, grab a notebook and pen and place them next to your bed. As soon as you wake up, start writing everything and anything that is on your mind – a mindful stream of writing. This is not a novel and it is not for anyone to read, so just let it flow naturally. There is no wrong way to do this exercise. You will be surprised at what results from this exercise! I find that after doing them, I feel refreshed and my mind tends to not be as busy during the day.

2. Make exercise a part of your daily life: Experiment with different types of exercise and aim to set aside 30 minutes to an hour 4 times a week. Do you love being outside? Try biking, running, or taking a brisk walk. If you’re new to running, Google C25K. This program takes you from the couch to running a 5k in 9 weeks. Running is not for you? Find a local gym and try a class or two until you find something that connects with you. Little time? Buy some DVDs and exercise at home when the kids are sleeping. The key is to make the time to get up and MOVE. Regular exercise not only helps you get in better shape, but it also helps reduce stress, improve sleep, increase energy levels, lower blood pressure, and strengthen your heart, just to name a few!

3. Take time to connect with your spouse every day: When our children are young, they are the center of our world, and sometimes our relationship with our partner ends up being neglected. Even if it’s only half an hour after the kids go to bed, it’s important to nurture your relationship. Has it been a long time since you two went out alone? Get a babysitter and mark the date on your calendar! Or make a list of fun “date night” activities. Whatever you decide, it’s important to make sure you’re spending quality time with your spouse every day.

Once your main foods are in balance, everything else can fall into place, including reaching health goals like losing weight and eating a healthier diet. It’s time to reconnect and nurture yourself. You’re worth it!