No pill can undo a bad diet and no treatment can completely counteract an unhealthy lifestyle.

With the ever-increasing demands of modern living, it seems nearly all of us are all looking for a quick fix – a pill that will cause weight loss, a skin cream that will erase wrinkles, or a superfood that will provide endless energy. But whether looking to a pharmaceutical drug or natural supplements, the consensus is mutual: a quick and harmless fix doesn’t exist.

A life well-maintained is a life well-lived

We recognize the necessity of maintenance when it comes to our cars, homes, and even our lawns, but often we don’t realize that this method of care and maintenance translates to our mind & body as well. Instead, we wait until the ‘wheels fall off’ before finally visiting a medical doctor, naturopath, dentist, or chiropractor and are surprised to hear that the road back to health may be a long one. The truth is, the road to illness is also lengthy and it is after days, months, years, and decades of neglect that the car finally breaks down.

As one of my favorite authors, Gretchen Rubin, states, “What you do every day matters more than what you do once in a while." What you do every day for your health matters more than an occasional visit to the doctor, a rare gym visit, or a week-long cleanse amidst a year-long unhealthy diet. Your lifestyle can either be the greatest foundation upon which your health is built, or the obstacle your body has to fight constantly to overcome.

According to Integrative's treatment principles, our lifestyle should focus on three realms: structural health, mental (emotional and spiritual) health, and biochemical health. Ensuring consistency within the following lifestyle components supports the three realms:

• Mindful sleep routine
• Stress relief
• Nutrient dense diet
• Hydration
• Movement
• Detoxification of harmful substances

Read our Integrative Guide to Wellness series for guidance on how to live - and age - well so that your visits can become simple tune-ups rather than a complete overhaul.

Integrative Guide to Wellness: Sleep

Integrative Guide to Wellness: Movement

Integrative Guide to Wellness: Stress Relief

Integrative Guide to Wellness: Nourish Yourself

Integrative Guide to Wellness: Daily Detoxification