Balance
Survival | Day 6
Survival, as the foundational tier in Maslow's hierarchy, encompasses the most fundamental and vital aspects of human life. This includes not only the essentials of air, water, food, and shelter but also factors such as sleep and sex, which are critical for physical and emotional well-being.
Air, Water, Food, and Shelter
Our overall well-being and sense of ease improve significantly when we attend to the foundational aspects of our lives.
Survival in the modern world has undergone significant transformations; our fundamental necessities can now be fulfilled in diverse ways, often transcending mere essentials. Amidst the vast sea of conflicting information, the question arises: which choices foster well-being, and which ones lead to "dis"ease?
Numerous possibilities are within our reach, yet the key often lies in simplicity.
Although survival represents the most foundational level, it's surprisingly easy to lose focus on what truly matters. The allure of sophisticated marketing and an endless array of products can divert even the most dedicated individuals from their path.
Here is a collection of strategies to meet your fundamental needs. You have the freedom to choose those that resonate with your goals, values, and priorities, ultimately leading to a sense of contentment.
Clean Air
Focusing on clean air to breathe is essential for our health and overall well-being, especially if you live in an environment with air quality concerns. Here are steps we can take to prioritize clean air:
Look for
- Oxygen Producing Plants: Some indoor plants can help improve air quality by removing pollutants. Consider adding air-purifying plants like snake plants, peace lilies, or spider plants to your home.
- Air Filters: Change filters and maintain HVAC systems, heaters, and air conditioners regularly to ensure they are functioning efficiently and not contributing to indoor pollution.
- Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in home by opening windows and using exhaust fans.
- Air Purifiers: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove particles and pollutants from indoor air.
- Diffusers
- Humidifiers
- Essential Oils in/on Wood, Cotton Balls; in Diffusers, Humidifiers, Spray Bottles etc.
- Himalayan Salt Lamps
Avoid
We can't avoid everything but we can make sure we don't expose ourselves to an excessive amount of pollution.
- Synthetic Fragrances: or proclaimed "natural" perfumes and air fresheners. Phthalates, the chemical found in these synthetic fragrances, is causing hormonal imbalances which causes an array of problems.
- Sources of indoor pollution: such as using low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and cleaning products, and ensuring proper ventilation when cooking.
- Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting or smoking outdoors to prevent indoor pollution.
- Outdoor Pollution: Be mindful of outdoor air quality, especially during high pollution days. Limit outdoor activities when air quality is poor, and consider using masks designed to filter pollutants if necessary.
- Monitor Allergens: If you have allergies, monitor outdoor allergen levels and take appropriate precautions. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.
- Avoid High-Traffic Areas: If possible, choose living locations that are away from high-traffic areas, factories, or sources of pollution.
Pure Water
Pure water is crucial for several reasons:
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Hydration: It is essential for maintaining proper bodily functions, including digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation.
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Health: Pure water helps prevent waterborne illnesses by minimizing the risk of exposure to contaminants and pathogens.
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Detoxification: It supports the body's natural detoxification processes by flushing out toxins and waste products.
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Nutrient Absorption: Water aids in the absorption and transport of nutrients throughout the body.
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Skin and Hair Health: It contributes to healthy skin, hair, and overall appearance.
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Energy and Cognitive Function: Proper hydration is linked to increased energy levels and improved cognitive function.
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Overall Well-Being: Pure water is a fundamental component of overall health and well-being, contributing to a balanced and vibrant life.
Ensuring access to clean, pure water is essential for maintaining good health and vitality.
Look for
- Reverse Osmosis Filtration Systems:
- Fill up BPA-free jugs at grocery store dispensers.
- Portable on counter filtration system
- Filter, tank, and separate faucet installed underneath sink.
- Whole house filtration
- Activated Carbon Filters
- Distilled; use only on occasion.
- BPA-free 5 gallon and/or 1 gallon jugs.
- Stainless Steel water bottles
- Glass water bottles (If afraid you'll drop it, some glass water bottles have rubber protectors to avoid breaking.)
Avoid
- Tap water: Municipal tap water is treated to meet safety standards, but it can still contain trace amounts of contaminants such as chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals (like lead), pesticides, and industrial pollutants. Water quality can vary significantly from one area to another, so it's essential to review local water quality reports provided by your water utility.
- Bottled water: Depending on its source, may or may not be subject to the same regulatory standards as tap water. Some bottled waters come from natural springs and are treated, while others are simply filtered tap water. Additionally, the plastic used in bottles can potentially leach chemicals into the water over time.
Problem
- According to the U.S. Council of Environmental Quality...
"The cancer risk to people who drink chlorinated water is 93 percent higher than those who don't" Read More...
BPA acts like a hormone and can disrupt a healthy hormone balance
- BPA can also effect the brain, heart and has been even been linked to cancer.
Action
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Stay Informed: Stay informed about your local water quality by reviewing water quality reports provided by your water utility. These reports typically detail the contaminants present in your area's water supply.
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Advocate for Clean Water: Get involved in local environmental initiatives and support policies that aim to protect and improve water quality in your community.
Read
Or use a dispenser like this
Nutritious Food
Nutritious food is vital for overall health as it provides essential nutrients, fuels bodily functions, supports growth and immunity, aids in organ development, and reduces the risk of illness. It also helps maintain a healthy weight and energy levels, enabling active and productive lives, making it a cornerstone of well-being.
In a world filled with an abundance of products and often conflicting information, discerning which choices promote health and which might contribute to "dis"ease can indeed be challenging.
It is essential to experiment to find what is best for our unique selves.
While there is a wealth of dietary information available, remember that individual needs and responses to food can vary widely. What works for one person may not work for another. By taking a thoughtful and experimental approach to your diet and considering the questions you've listed, you can make choices that align with your personal health and well-being goals.
Take notes in your food journal, and work through the pure food course to gain a clearer understanding of your overall food choices and their impact on your health and well-being
This process will help you identify areas of improvement and make informed decisions to achieve your dietary and nutritional goals.
Question
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Processed vs. Unprocessed Food: Reflect on whether your diet primarily consists of processed or unprocessed foods. Generally, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins tend to be healthier options.
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Nutrient-Rich Foods: Evaluate whether your diet includes foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals. A well-balanced diet should provide a variety of nutrients to support overall health.
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Comfort vs. Discomfort: Pay attention to how the food you eat makes you feel. Do certain foods leave you feeling comfortable and energized, or do they cause discomfort, bloating, or other adverse effects? This can be a valuable indicator of which foods agree with your body.
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Timing of Meals: Consider whether you're consuming the right foods at the right times.
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Food Combining: Assess whether you're making good or excellent choices in terms of food combining. Proper food combinations can optimize digestion and nutrient absorption. Some dietary philosophies emphasize specific food combining principles.
Action
- Experiment: Be open to trying new foods, cooking methods, and meal plans to see how your body responds.
- Food Journal: Keep a record of your dietary choices to track how they affect your well-being and identify any patterns or correlations.
- Consult a Professional: If you have specific dietary concerns or goals, seek guidance from a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized advice.
- Educate Yourself: Continuously expand your knowledge about nutrition and food quality by relying on reputable sources like nutrition books, scientific studies, and qualified health professionals.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay close attention to how different foods impact your energy levels, digestion, mood, and overall health; your body's response is a valuable guide.
Comfortable Shelter
Stable shelter provides predictability, a home base for routines, and fosters a sense of belonging. It contributes to psychological well-being through relaxation and comfort, while also serving as the backdrop for social and family life, facilitating connections, relationships, and a sense of community.
By prioritizing organization and cleanliness in your living space, you can create a more inviting and comfortable environment that supports your well-being and helps reduce stress in your daily life.
Here are some ideas for leading a purified lifestyle on the home front.
11-ways-to-be-an-earth-friendly-household
Organization
- Keeping your physical space organized makes daily life more manageable, allowing you to find what you need easily.
- Organizing your home not only enhances functionality but also fosters a sense of appreciation for your living environment.
- A clutter-free and organized space can create a peaceful and cherished atmosphere, making it a more enjoyable place to live and work.
Set up a free consultation with us to organize and clean your home for you!
Cleaning
- Establishing a regular cleaning routine is crucial for maintaining a healthy and happy home.
- Consider replacing chemical cleaning products with natural alternatives to reduce exposure to harmful substances.
- Basic cleaning materials like baking soda, distilled white vinegar, citrus fruits, and plant-based oils can be effective and safe options for keeping your home clean.
