H.O.P.E.: How to slay a dragon’s little brother — Part 4

Part 4: P – Physical Well-Being

Fear let out a deep, pained groan as the knight read the ‘P’ scroll aloud. Physical well-being.

“Better?” the Fairy Godfather asked.

“Just rolls off the tongue,” the knight smiled.

The Fairy Godfather waved his wand and Kur-poof, the knight was wearing running shorts and shoes.

“The next one is catchier. I promise. But this one is important. You have to give your body a chance to take care of you. It failed you once; you can’t allow it to happen again.” the Fairy Godfather said while looking at the whimpering dragon.

“Well, what should I do? Run a marathon?” the knight said while patting his belly.

The Fairy Godfather whirred around to the front of the room. “Start with thirty minutes of aerobic exercise a day. Do it at least three times a week. You don’t have to run a marathon — unless you want to, of course. Just walk. Take a walk with a friend. Lose some body fat. Not only will you get physical benefits, but you will also get mental ones as well. Some studies even suggest that exercise reduces anxiety. Reducing anxiety would stick it to your little dragon friend over there, now wouldn’t it?”

“And try deep breathing. Dr. Andrew Weil recommends a “cleansing breath” to reduce anxiety as well. He suggests a deep breath while counting until four. Hold it for a count of seven and then exhale for eight. Do that four or eight times. ”

“Look for good foods to eat. Obviously eat more vegetables and less junk. Eat lots of leafy and colorful vegetables. Reduce sugar, too. Fuel your immune system, don’t squelch it. None of this is high science — it’s just the common sense your mom used to preach.”

But before you do anything, consult your doctor. She knows best when it comes to your health. Just get moving. Get off the couch. Obesity and inactivity increase your risk of cancer. You’ve already danced that dance. Nevermore.

Fear was openly starting to sweat. The knight smiled as the once pesky dragon was whimpering. “Make the beast suffer, ” he thought. He laced up his shoes and got ready to take his first of many walks. Let’s see if Fear could keep up.

Click here to read Part 5.