Give Yourself the Gift of Health

By Pamela D. Wilson, MS, BS/BA, NCG, CSA

Give yourself the gift of health by loving yourself. When I was a child, Valentine’s Day was a significant day.  My mom purchased the small box of cards on which I would print the names of all of my classmates; especially the one boy who I hoped would like me.  

As I grew up, Valentine’s Day continued to have special meaning.  Flowers would (or would not) show up in the workplace, dinners would (or would not) occur, I would (or would not) have a special person to acknowledge on this date.  Then I began to realize that I didn’t really need this date to do something special for someone, or for myself.  I could recognize myself or others anytime during the year.

The Gift of Health

The one gift that I give myself the month of my birthday, which is August, is healthcare.  But February, the month of cupid, would also be a good month to do this for all of us since winter seems to be a slower time of year.  It’s during the month of August that I schedule my annual physical, mammogram, dental exam and other healthcare checks as a gift to myself. Pick a month and give yourself the gift of health.

Taking Care of Yourself is a Gift to Others

How many of us see people who don’t take the time to care for their health until crises arises?  We all know better but many of us also fall into this pattern because we are so very busy working or taking care of others that we neglect ourselves. Health is a precious gift that we don’t pay attention to until it’s gone. 

How many of our loved ones or spouses would miss us if we were no longer here?  Taking good care of ourselves is a gift to others – our children, friends, family, spouses and parents. Give the gift of health by modeling positive health habits for your family. 

Show Love – Take Care of Yourself

So, each year give yourself the gift of health in the month of February or during your birthday month.  Let this be the month that you show love for yourself and love for others by caring for your own health.

Do something nice for yourself every day. Become more educated about health and well-being. Learn how to become an advocate for your health and the health of aging loved ones.

© 2012, 2013, 2020 Pamela D. Wilson, All Rights Reserved.  

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