When most people think of health, they usually think in terms of not being sick. The World Health Organization's (WHO) definition of health takes a broader view of the topic. They define as health as "state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." Keeping this definition in mind, busy schedules and stressful lives can make this balance hard to achieve. Its important to remember that health is a balancing act that calls for moderation. Health cannot be obtained through one simple action. Instead, it takes a commitment to making healthful decisions on a daily basis. Some of these decisions may be more obvious than others. Some of the main ways to help maintain a healthy lifestyle are through proper nutr ition and physical activity. Eating a nutritious diet does not have to mean never eating your favorite dessert again. Cutting a food out of your diet, unless recommended by a physician, is not going to make your happy or healthy. Finding a way to enjoy your favorites in within reason is the best way to enjoy them. It makes having them a special treat and you are less likely to cheat than if the food was forbidden.

Physical activity is also very important to health, but must not be overdone. Exercise should fit into your schedule without taking away from other activities you enjoy. Experts recommend adults get thirty minutes a day of moderate exercise most days of the week or twenty minutes of vigorous exercise three days a week. For someone who is currently sedentary, these recommendations may seem daunting, but adding in some time for exercise can be as easy as a brisk walk at lunch. Remember, exercise does not have to mean running on a treadmill and lifting weights. Dance, rock climbing, martial arts, and sports all count as exercise. Finding balance takes time and patience. Starting a workout regimen and changing eating habits takes time and diligence. You cannot expect to change overnight; however, the rewards are worth the effort. You will find that even little changes may give you more energy and a more balanced life.