Pillars of Life

When I look at an ancient structure like the Parthenon, it blows my mind that large portions of it are still standing today. You see the foundation with its wonderful pillars still holding strong after all these years and it makes you appreciate those who designed and built it. They created something that could withstand anything life through its way. Wouldn't it be great if we could do that too? Well, in regards to our health, I think we can!

Comparing ourselves to a building, we have a foundation. On top of that foundation
are pillars. In order for this structure to work, the pillars are going to have to be strong and able to withstand any burden that is placed upon it. If they cannot, the whole thing can, and eventually will, crumble. So how do we do this? 

There are four components to health that we need to be aware of: social, mental, physical and spiritual. Each pillar carries equal importance and should be addressed accordingly. Ignoring or weakening a pillar in architecture dooms the project to failure. The same can be said for our health. Below are a few ideas to keep in mind as you work your way towards improving your overall well-being...

1. Social: build healthy, positive relationships. Remove negativity from your social group and aim to be in front of people rather than behind a screen.
2. Mental: Sleep well, practice stress relieving methods, talk through your problems, stay active and connect with others. 
3. Physical: When one is physically active, so too is the brain. Challenging yourself physically and overcoming said challenges builds resilience, confidence, self esteem, and self efficacy. These are great qualities to have. As Thomas Jefferson once quipped, “A strong body makes the mind strong”.
4. Spiritual: This box can be checked in a variety of ways but a central theme in all is serving something greater than oneself. Barring an apocalyptic tragedy, the world does not end when you end. In service to others, you will make the world a greater place. 

As a parent/coach/teacher, we cannot forget that last point. We play a major role in effecting the health of future generations. A healthier family leads to a healthier town. A healthier town leads to a healthier state. A healthier state leads to a healthier country. Eventually you get to the point where some small, local changes create a positive impact on the world. You just need strong pillars to build from!

​Chris Fluck

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