What Does a Healthy Balance Actually Mean?

It's easy to get caught up in the latest trends and fads when it comes to health and wellbeing. From non-toxic beauty products to organic diets, we're bombarded with messages about what it means to live a healthy lifestyle. But amidst the sea of Instagram posts and influencer endorsements, one question remains: what does a healthy balance mean?

The Dichotomy of "Healthy" Habits

Scroll through your social media feed, and you're bound to come across posts from wellness influencers trumpeting their "healthy" habits. But take a closer look, and you'll notice a curious pattern—a juxtaposition of virtuous behaviours with seemingly contradictory actions:

• "I only use non-toxic beauty products, but I also get Botox."
• "I only drink filtered water, but I get my nails done at a non-organic salon every two weeks."
• "I only buy grass-fed meat, but I indulge in burgers and fries cooked in seed oils."

At first glance, these statements may seem harmless. After all, we're all entitled to make choices that align with our preferences and values. However, beneath the surface lies a deeper issue—one that speaks to our relationship with health and self-acceptance.

Owning Your Choices: A Path to Empowerment

The underlying message behind these juxtaposed statements is one of apology and justification. By highlighting one "healthy" habit while acknowledging a seemingly less virtuous behaviour, we inadvertently imply a sense of guilt or shame. But here's the thing—there's no need to apologise for living life on your terms.

If you choose to get Botox or indulge in dessert twice a day, own it. Embrace your choices without the need for justification or apology. After all, true health balance isn't about adhering to a rigid set of rules—it's about finding harmony in the choices that resonate with you.

Beyond Labels: A Holistic Approach to Wellness

Perhaps the most crucial aspect of health balance is understanding its true essence. It's not about adhering to a checklist of "good" and "bad" behaviours—it's about assessing the overall impact of your lifestyle choices on your wellbeing.

Imagine your body as a bank account, with each lifestyle choice serving as either a deposit or a withdrawal. The goal isn't to eliminate all "withdrawals" but rather to ensure that your body's "credit score" remains positive.

For example, if you enjoy getting manicures, consider the overall toxin burden on your body. If your diet is rich in antioxidants, you exercise regularly, and you prioritise hydration and detoxification, the occasional exposure to nail polish chemicals is unlikely to have a significant impact.

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Ultimately, health balance is a deeply personal journey—one that requires self-reflection, self-acceptance, and an unwavering commitment to your well-being. It's about finding what works for you, embracing your choices without judgment, and prioritising holistic health above all else.

Phoebe x