The United States is the number one consumer of prescription medications in the world.  We live in a sleepless society, amidst an onslaught of sleep    stealers.  Technology and unchecked emotions, such as anger, are powerful sources of stress, anxiety, depression and, of course, sleeplessness.

Here is some good news: it’s our natural immune system.  In “The Power of Belief,” author Ray Dodd says believing in your own healing can actually change cellular functioning and hormonal release.  Additionally, Bellevue physician James Biskup, M.D., who focuses on wellness, shares “Six Core Principles of Health” that challenge your balance in health and life.

Sleep is essential for life and restoration, brain function and body repair. A lack of restorative sleep can cause major psychological stress. It’s also associated with an increased risk of the top two killers — heart disease and cancer.

Nutrition and Detox. Obesity is a U.S. epidemic that’s creating an opening for premature chronic disease. It can increase depression of mind, body and spirit, as well as create an energy problem.   Eat to live rather than live to eat. We must embrace good nutrition and “detox” —  get of rid unhealthy habits.

Exercise builds fitness of the brain and body. While there may be some discomfort when we exercise, not exercising at all can lead to the loss of metabolic control, hormonal balance, strength of mind and mobility. Life is about choices and choosing  exercise leads to good health.

Hormone Balance.  Hormones, the key regulators of the body, are produced, released and function properly only if you get adequate, quality sleep and    optimal nutrition. Proper sleep and nutrition can lead to a better brain, better frame, reduced falls and fractures and even a lower risk of diabetes.

Stress affects our core principles of health including sleep, nutrition, exercise, hormonal balance and spirit balance.  Stress consumes much energy. The brain becomes foggy and lacks clarity as the body becomes weighted, heavy and slow.

Spiritual Balance. Those who are active in religious communities tend to exhibit faith, hope and love —  and they connect more with others. They also have lower blood pressure, exercise more, eat much healthier diets and tend to quit smoking. In addition, they have lower levels of anxiety and depression, are less likely to abuse   alcohol and drugs and are also less likely to commit suicide.