Nutritional Value

Dear Aspen reader,

With age comes a certain level of reflection on life and decisions I’ve made. I think it’s only natural to look back at the events in life through a specific lens. As I get older, I have come to understand that most of the decisions I make/made are based on personal values and beliefs. I was blessed, as a child, to have parents who taught strong morals and were readily available to help me on life’s journey towards becoming a well-adjusted member of society. Rarely did I consider the days of my youth in which learning and the development of self-discipline took place. But now I see how learning the skill of commitment, how to find focus and purpose and to be a continual learner who seeks opportunities for growth have contributed to the daily decisions I make.

When considering wellness, those values are transferrable. Planning weekly meals for my husband and I takes a level of commitment. As much as I love cooking, there are days when it’s easier to not make a mess of the kitchen and go out to eat instead (and sometimes we do!). But I know the value of spending time sharing a meal together and how eating at home allows me time to creatively prepare a unique meal. I’ve found that committing to eating a certain number of meals at home during the week often gives me the push I need to clear the fridge and use what’s on hand, saving our restaurant outings for the weekends.

Our purpose for eating healthfully is simple: to keep our bodies fueled for life. Eating leafy greens, vibrant vegetables and rich fruits increases the body’s capacity to function at optimal levels. I can tell that my energy levels are higher when I eat the right foods for my body. My hair and skin seem to glow a little bit more when I’m hydrated. My digestion seems to be more balanced when I have nutritious foods as the bulk of my diet. My purpose for eating the foods that I choose is to maintain health and balance.

As far as being a continual learner when it comes to nutrition, the answer is “yes”. I am always on the hunt for new information, research and new foods to incorporate into my diet. Choosing to view nutrition as an adventure to be discovered, full of endless opportunities, rather than a mundane topic is a great starting point toward living fully.

In health,
Alecia

Choosing to view nutrition as an adventure to be discovered, full of endless opportunities, rather than a mundane topic is a great starting point toward living fully.