This weekend, my husband and I are celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary. As I reflect on three decades of marriage and raising a family, I'd like to share some lessons I've learned—lessons that, surprisingly, apply just as much to health and wellness as they do to love and family.
Life is a Journey of Adjustment
Just as marriage requires constant adjustment and learning, so does adopting a healthy lifestyle. When we first started our health journey, it was challenging. But like in our marriage, patience and persistence paid off. Whether it's understanding your partner's love language or figuring out which foods make you feel your best, the key is to keep learning and adapting.
2. Teaching Healthy Habits to Children
Raising our sons while introducing healthier choices was tough at first, but incredibly rewarding. Today, they're independent young men who read food labels and cook nutritious meals for themselves. This reminds us that instilling good habits early on—in relationships and in health—creates a strong foundation for the future.
3. The Power of Communication
In marriage, we've learned never to assume the other person knows what we're thinking or wanting. The same goes for our relationship with our bodies and health. Listen to your body, communicate with your healthcare providers, and don't assume that what works for others will work for you.
4. Resolving Conflicts for Better Health
We always try to resolve arguments before going to bed. Not only is this good for our relationship, but it's crucial for our sleep and overall health. Unresolved stress can negatively impact sleep quality, which in turn affects our physical and mental well-being.
5. Overcoming Challenges Together
Twenty years ago, we relocated to the USA, leaving our families behind and building a life from scratch with two young children. This experience taught us resilience and adaptability—skills that are just as valuable in maintaining a healthy lifestyle as they are in nurturing a family.
As we celebrate this milestone, we're reminded that the ingredients for a successful marriage—patience, communication, adaptability, and commitment—are also essential for maintaining good health and wellness. Whether you're working on your relationships or your well-being, remember that it's a lifelong journey of learning and growth.
Here's to love, health, and happiness for all of you!
