Happy New Year to Everyone! I hope everyone had a good Christmas. If not I hope you made it through. This month we are suppose to talk about Heath. When I think of Health the first thing I think of is of course Mental Health. Probably the first thing to do to be healthy is if you have seen a doctor and are on medications, is to take your meds. If you don’t take your meds, it will be difficult to continue to remain stable and move forward on your journey toward recovery.

Next I would suggest trying to stay connected to people, instead of isolating. This is very hard for me, so I know how difficult it can be for people in general. I had my son and his girlfriend over the holidays, and my younger son. It was very nice. However, even though it was only a day they stayed, I was relieved when they left as I was tired and spent. Try to decide how long you are going to be around people and then keep it to that limit. Other wise you can become over tired and over stimulated, which can lead to anxiety.

Try to get outside for 15 minutes a day, even if it’s just a walk to the mailbox or back. Get some fresh air. Today I took my dog Nikita to the Beach and it was windy and cold, but I dressed for it and let her play in the sand for a good half hour. While I saw a huge blue heron fly by, I felt better breathing fresh air and getting a little walking in.

The last two things I would recommend would be to get enough sleep 7-9 hours a night. And try something new every day. My son bought me an oil painting kit. I have two large canvases, which I have not painted on. Now I have no reason not to.

It’s not always easy to stay on track with our Health. We have to consciously work at it. There are other things and ways to stay Healthy that you will read about this month, which I am sure will be enlightening. Just keep trying. Every one can make it to Recovery and good Health.