Nourishment

Nutrition or Nourishment?

We are all familiar with these terms, and many of us think they are synonymous. In common usage they may be. I believe, however, that there are subtle differences that have bearing on our wellness pursuits.

We think of nutrition as the food we eat, and the elements within that contribute to body growth and repair. Nourishment, on the other hand, pertains more to our overall health. In other words, nourishment encompasses the elements of our lives that contribute to our feelings of wellbeing, the desire to live happier and healthier, and a better chance at a positive, optimistic outlook. Let’s dive a little deeper into this concept and examine the elements of what I have labelled “Essential Nourishment”

Of course, what you eat is important to your health. This is Nutrition. Nourishment, however, involves, other more important aspects of life. It turns out, satisfaction  with your relationships, your occupation or profession, your personal spirituality, and your daily activity level, are more important than the food you eat in terms of their contribution to your overall health.

I’ll give you an example from my own life. Over a decade ago, I was in personal crisis. My marriage was failing, I experienced negativity in my career and because of this and other professional setbacks, I became agnostic about my faith. In the midst of this, I began experiencing chest pains and underwent cardiac work-up which resulted in  five vessel coronary artery bypass surgery. Several years later I was diagnosed by colonoscopy (by the way, get your colonoscopy, folks!) with Stage 2 colon cancer, completely treatable by surgery thankfully!

Now, after finding a career path that is far more satisfactory, ensconced in a fully mutually satisfying relationship, a renewed spiritual life, and daily practice that includes far more movement and less eating, drinking and sitting, my heart is healthy, my blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipids normal, and my body is cancer free!

Of course, I am much healthier now thanks to modern medicine and surgery, but I will only stay healthy if I attend to my “essential” nourishment: my occupation, my relationships, my activity level and my spiritual life.

As always I welcome your comments and questions and fell free to make an appointment with MONACO Wellness to help you sort out the status of your Essential Nourishment.

In health,

Dr. John Monaco

MONACO Wellness

www.monacowellness.org

8135416440