Are symptoms bad and does a lack of symptoms mean that you are well? No, we need symptoms. You may not like them but they are essential to your existence and wellbeing. We just need to understand their meaning. So let's start with a definition.

Merriam-Webster's Dictionary states that symptoms are subjective evidence of disease or physical disturbance; something that indicates the presence of bodily disorder.

The key concept to grasp is that symptoms are a completely normal and necessary function of the body. Without them we would not know that something isn't functioning properly. They are just the messengers (don't shoot the messenger). You need to know that something is wrong in order to do rectify the problem.

Symptoms are how the body's innate intelligence responds when it can no longer adapt to physical, chemical/environmental, and or mental/emotional stress. Symptoms are the indication of a disturbance in the body, they are not the problem. They are the body's way of saying, "hey, I need attention," "Help," "I don't like this," or "STOP." If you listen only then will you have a chance to take control of your life.

Symptoms are the perfect friend on a wellness journey. They let us know when our lifestyle choices are incongruent with wellness. When driving, do you ignore the road sign that indicates you are going in the wrong direction? Not if you want to get to your destination. So don't ignore symptoms by saying "I don't have time for this" or "it will go away," because these beliefs will get you lost (lost health). Also when driving, if a check engine light comes on you wouldn't put a piece of black tape over it. So why do so many people take medication that mask the symptom and do not address the cause of the symptom? Because it's easier than addressing the cause.

It takes time, effort and commitment to adopt a wellness lifestyle. If you start with one step at a time it will be worth every ounce of energy you put in. The core components of this lifestyle are: Proper Nerve Supply, Proper Nutrition, Proper Exercise, Proper Rest and Mindful Decision Making.

As a Wellness Educator I am focused on helping people improve each of these core components. Health and wellness come from you and your lifestyle choices not from drugs or surgery.

To get help with any aspect of your health please call and make an appointment or ask at your next visit. It is up to you to take control of your health.