BE HEALTHY

INTRODUCTION

An old Sudanese proverb which states ‘’that health is a crown worn by those who are healthy and seen only by the sick’’ is very appropriate.

Health is a gift from the Lord. We can, however, help him in administering this gift by undertaking simple lifestyles measures. Ill health and suffering is a cross many are asked to bear.

Pray daily that the Lord will give Priests the health to carry out their ministry.

By Dr. James M. Sheehan

 

Be Healthy Programme by Dr. Francis Sheehan

The Pope stated in his introduction to you, "it is you who bring comfort to people and guide them in the difficult moments of their lives"

To do this work adequately, a healthy mind and body are essential.

Three important aspects of healthy living are

• A good diet
• Regular exercise
• Relaxation

Diet does not mean restricting food, but rather healthy eating.

A good breakfast is the most important meal of your working day. It gives you the energy to start the day well, it stimulates your metabolism, and should also be used as a quiet time to collect your thoughts for the day ahead. This meal consists of a cereal such as porridge or muesli, which are slowly digested and give sustained, slow-release glucose supply to the body, a piece of fruit and a cup of tea or coffee. Breakfast should not be rushed, but enjoyed, at the start of a busy working day.

Two other meals should be taken at some time during the day, a main meal in the middle of the day, and a light evening meal, not later than 7:30 pm. These meals should supply protein, in the form of meat, fish, poultry or eggs, a carbohydrate (potatoes, rice or pasta), and 2-3 servings of vegetables or salads.

Salt over-use is a recognised predisposing factor in hypertension. Salt is added in cooking, so additional salt should not be added at the table.

Drinking 6-8 glasses of water daily ensures the body well hydrated. Tiredness and sluggishness result from dehydration.

The advised alcohol intake is 21 units weekly, and preferably not all on the one night!

• A pint of beer is 2 units of alcohol
• A small glass of wine is 1 unit
• A measure of spirits is 1 1/2 units

Exercise is often thought of as "something I would like to do if I had the time". To stay healthy and carry out your ministry efficiently, exercise is not a luxury, but a necessary part of your daily routine. Any form of regular physical activity is good for you.

• It keeps your heart healthy
• It stretches your muscles which may have tightened with stress and tension during the day
• Keeps your joints in good working order
• Manages weight
• Gives you more energy
• Helps you to relax and sleep better

On days too wet or days too full to go for a walk, why not to do some gentle stretching exercises, which will help suppleness and flexibility?
Cycling, gardening, swimming, are all worthwhile exercises.
Vary your daily exercise, so that it does not become boring.

Relaxation and a proper sleep pattern help to counter-act effects of a busy, stressful life.

Stress may result in both short-term and long-term effects.

In the immediate stress period, the neck and back muscles can become tight, the mouth becomes dry, the heart beats faster and blood pressure rises.
In the longer term, it can cause ulcers, hypertension, heart disease, sleep disturbance and changes in behaviour, which could result in over-eating and dependence on alcohol.

The methods of dealing with stress include following:

• Physical activity
• Time management. Make list and prioritise
• Talk to a trusted friend
• Listen to relaxing music, read a book
• Avoid too much coffee, especially at night
• Have a regular bed-time

Smoking is now well recognised as a major risk factor in heart disease, along with high blood pressure, inactivity and raised cholesterol levels. Smokers are twice as likely to suffer a heart attack than non-smokers. Stopping smoking has an immediate benefit to your health. There are many support groups to help smokers quit, and your GP is the best person to advise you.

Remember, regular medical check-ups are prudent as prevention of disease is better than cure.