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| Path: Main Street > Resources/Library > Research Articles > Feature Article |
Balance = FUN
By Kristin Duare McKinnon, HBSW, MSW
July 7, 2008
Often when you read about health and wellness, you read about 'balance'. But what does 'balance' really mean?
My favourite Funk & Wagnall's definition of balance is, "Harmonious proportion, as in the design or arrangement of parts in a whole."
In other words, staying well is about keeping a balance in all parts of what makes YOU - taking care of yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, socially and spiritually. One easy prescription for reaching this balance is FUN. Today, I share some easy tips for putting more fun - and balance - into your life.
Laugh!
Laughter is good for us. It helps to reduce our stress and anxiety and to keep us well.If you aren't laughing much these days, you need to actively search for more funny in your life. Go to Yuk Yuks, rent a DVD of your favourite comedian, watch Funniest Home Videos or Just for Laughs - whatever it takes to get you giggling.
And try to spend more time with those who know how to laugh. Laughter is contagious, after all!
Play!
Anyone who thinks play is just for children is missing out; we have as much to gain from play as youngsters do. Playtime helps us to relax, let go of our worries and have a little fun. Play is also good for us because it usually involves interacting with others and physical activity. So get off your butt and join that dodge ball game, jump that hopscotch, or start up a game of charades.Hug!
Human contact is vital to the healthy development of babies and children, and that need doesn't go away as we get older. Physical contact can calm us, make us feel better and strengthen our relationships. It is one of the most basic human needs. Have you had your hug today?Create!
Regardless of the art or craft, creating helps us to relax and focus while also giving us a sense of mastery and accomplishment. What you create is up to you - the sky is the limit. (Don't worry, it doesn't have to be a masterpiece as long as it brings you peace.)Dance!
Music has an incredible capacity to lift our spirits. Regardless of our personal tastes, music can calm us, inspire us, or get us moving. As they say on Vinyl Tap, "Dance like no one's watching! Sing like no one's listening." Music IS joy.Embrace the fuzzy!
Pets bring much to our lives. The simple act of stroking a cat or dog brings down our blood pressure and calms anxiety. The creatures in our lives also give us many opportunities to laugh, play and wonder...and get us moving to boot.Embrace the littles!
Children have a wonderful power to show us what really matters in life. If you take the time to really experience the perspective of a child, your soul will be treated with endless wonder, joy, curiosity and fun.Now get out there right now and have some FUN!
Kristin writes for Community Living Kawartha Lakes; for more of her articles visit the Community Living website at www.communitylivingkl.ca. Please read her disclaimer.
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