This information is excerpted from the book, Recapture Your Health, by Walt Stoll, M.D. and Jan DeCourtney, C.M.T. Feel free to use up to 10 tips in an article or story as long as you quote the source and ordering information for the book (at bottom).

Health Tip No. 6: Enrich Your Family Life by Improving Your Own Health

Some people believe that they are taking time away from their families, especially their children, if they engage in activities to improve their own health. However, by practicing wellness, you can enrich your family life. You set a good example for your children and spouse by engaging in healthy activities. Not only will you be a happier, healthier person (nicer to be around), but children and other family members will also benefit from having a positive role model. They can look up to and learn from your actions, your taking care of yourself, and your integrating healthy activities and habits into daily life.

You will not lose time with your family members if you include them in your healthy activities and involve them in wellness. For example, some families enjoy practicing relaxation activities together, spend time in the kitchen collectively creating interesting whole foods dishes, and exercise as a group or team. Such family activities can encourage closeness and good relationships.

Some people think the way to give and receive love with family members is to bake sugary cookies, give a box of chocolates, etc. Think how much more you will be loving them by giving them the true treat of good healthy and healthy lifetime habits.

Walt Stoll, MD, and Jan DeCourtney, CMT, are co-authors of the book, Recapture Your Health: A Complete Step-by-Step Program to Reverse Your Chronic Symptoms and Create Lasting Wellness, (ISBN 0965317129), available at local and online bookstores, and from Sunrise Health Coach Publications, 1-877-357-9355 or www.sunrisehealthcoach.com.