Although I didn't see it, I've heard from several people that yesterday's Martha Stewart's television show was very Destination Spa-like. It even featured one of our own - Dr. Richard Carmona from Canyon Ranch.
The theme of the show was taking care of your body and soul. Although, the mind seems to be missing, it certainly sounds like spas. In keeping with the body and soul theme, the program was full of ideas for living a healthier, happier, and more meaningful life. The cooking segments included healthy recipes for lunch and warding off colds, while the rest of the show featured several health experts sharing tips on achieving optimal health. Dr. Brent Ridge shared tips on getting a good night's sleep, Terri Trespicio discussed the importance of forgiveness, and Mary Tedesco (Martha's personal trainer) led a fat-blasting workout to jump-start your metabolism. Add a massage and some relaxation time, and you have a snapshot of a day at a Destination Spa.
During his segment, Dr. Carmona, who was the 17th surgeon general of the United States and is now the vice chairman of Canyon Ranch, discussed how to achieve optimal health for ourselves and our communities.
How to Achieve Optimal Health and Wellness:
- To start, pick a physical activity that you like to do and do it!
- Eliminate high-risk activities. Wear your seat belt, and do things that can reduce the cost of health care.
- There needs to be a cultural transformation. Community leaders such as rabbis, priests, teachers, and principals need to make a long-term commitment to health-literacy, and then spread the word.
- Knowledge about health risks is easily accessible, so we all need to take on the role of a leader if we can.
- The greatest predictor of health status in a community is socioeconomic status. People need access to fresh fruits and vegetables, and it has got to be safe to go outside.
- Work within your community to provide opportunity. Write to your assemblymen and demand a supermarket that provides fresh fruits and vegetables.
Take the message to heart - nuture and care for your body and soul! Collectively, we can make a difference.
