Healthy?

Which would you choose?

The Optometrist?

The Doctor's Office?

Or going to the Dentist?

I hate going to the optometrist. I hate going to the doctor. But I love going to the dentist. And I absolutely know why! At the optometrist, the doctor always tells me that my prescription has gotten worse or that my stigmatism is worsening. At the doctor's office , he always tells me that I need to lose weight, or I need some other thing fixed that I don't want to do like wart removal for instance. But at the dentist office, I have always been told how great my teeth are and how completely amazing that I am twenty-four with no cavities!! Okay so I am a little proud of that fact.... Anyways, I have always had bad experiences with the optometrist and the doctor and perfect experiences with my dentist which is usually the opposite for some people.

Well, I had to go to the doctor's office today. This may be too much information so I apologize now. I had to go get a Pap Smear. I am twenty-four years old and never had one. I had been dreading going to get one for a long time. I have tried to get one before this: once when I was eighteen and the military told me they wouldn't give me one (being too young; I didn't think so); and the other time, right before I got married and they didn't think that I needed one yet. So it's been a long time coming... So grudgingly, I made the appointment. Guess What? It went fantastic! I had heard from multiple people that it hurt and was awkward. My doctor, Dr. Meredith (a male!) was so cool about it. We talked for about a thirty minutes before hand and then through it. It didn't hurt. He made it funny so that it wasn't that awkward. Within seconds, it was done and it was like it had never even happened. I think the most awkward part was sitting there with a hospital gown on. No problem! Seasons Medical definitely will have a new recurring customer! 

To stick with being healthy, I read an excerpt from the Strength of Youth today that I would like to share. Even though, I am not a teenager any more, these standards still apply to me. They are great values to live by to help keep our bodies strong and healthy.

Physical and Emotional Health

"All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings … shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; and shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge. 

Doctrine and Covenants 89:18–19

 

Your body is a temple, a gift from God. You will be blessed as you care for your body. Choose to obey the Word of Wisdom (see D&C 89). When you are obedient to this law, you remain free from harmful addictions and have control over your life. You gain the blessings of a healthy body, an alert mind, and the guidance of the Holy Ghost. You will be prepared to serve the Lord. Never let Satan or others deceive you into thinking that breaking the Word of Wisdom will make you happier, more popular, or more attractive.

To care for your body, eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. Practice balance and moderation in all aspects of your physical health. Also, avoid extremes in diet that could lead to eating disorders. Do not intentionally harm your body. Avoid dangerous activities that put your body at risk of serious injury.

Do not drink coffee or tea. Never use tobacco products or any form of alcohol; they are addictive and harmful to your body and spirit. Being under the influence of alcohol weakens your judgment and self-control. Drinking can also lead to alcoholism, which destroys individuals and families.

Avoid any drink, drug, chemical, or dangerous practice that is used to produce a “high” or other artificial effect that may harm your body or mind. Some of these include marijuana, hard drugs, prescription or over-the-counter medications that are abused, and household chemicals. Use of these substances can lead to addiction and can destroy your mind and your body.

Addictions harm your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. They damage relationships with family and friends and diminish your feelings of self-worth. They limit your ability to make choices for yourself. If you are struggling with any type of addiction, seek help from your parents and your bishop now.

Your emotional health is also important and may affect your spiritual and physical well-being. Disappointment and occasional sadness are part of this mortal life. However, if you have prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, or depression, talk with your parents and your bishop and seek help.

In all aspects of your life, seek healthy solutions to problems. Do all you can to safeguard your physical and emotional health so that you can fulfill your divine potential as a son or daughter of God."

What are you going to do every day to take care of your body??