If you’re here, chances are you’re eager to live a life filled with good health. But what exactly does ‘good health’ mean? The medical world often frames it as the absence of disease, yet I believe it’s something deeper. Many who don’t grapple with life-limiting ailments still don’t feel truly healthy. As doctors, our training often centers around curing or mitigating illnesses. Recently, though, more of us (myself included) are veering towards fostering wellness rather than just combating disease. We’re in an era where science illuminates how to not just dodge illnesses but to thrive and relish our time on Earth.
So, how do we cultivate this state of true wellness? We know our lifestyle choices matter—being deliberate about our health can help us thrive, not just survive. What we eat significantly impacts our health; a diet centered on whole foods can build robust bodies. Purposeful movement is another key—ample research underscores its importance. But there’s a lesser-discussed aspect vital to good health, backed by solid research.
Today, let’s talk about fun. As adults, we’ve been conditioned to relegate fun to childhood, and even kids these days experience less carefree enjoyment. Yet, compelling evidence now shows that adults need fun and play to stay well. Even with a flawless diet and exercise regimen, good health might remain elusive without a dose of fun.
Fun and play come in various forms. Laughter, for instance, might truly be the best medicine. We might forget that we’re social beings—community isn’t a mere luxury but a basic human need. A 1974 study on Rosetta, an Italian immigrant community, revealed their exceptional health compared to neighbors. Their secret wasn’t in diets or exercise but in their tight-knit communal lifestyle. While today we enjoy more comfort materially, our stress levels, possibly due to constant connectivity, often skyrocket.
What fun are you injecting into your life today? This week, I challenge you: find joy. Take that dance class, create art with someone dear, explore a park. Discover what fun means to you and share it with others. Need ideas? We’re here to help!
Health transcends the absence of illness. Let’s embrace the prospect of a genuinely vibrant life.
