The Nine Foundations of Health

The Nine Foundations of Health are the backbone of Pathways To Freedom Natural Health. We make sure that, regardless of whatever personalized program you are in, you are set up for success while applying the Nine Foundations of Health. Even though there are Nine we will focus on Four.

First, we have Hydration (aka water). There is a debate about how much water you should drink. Or how much hydration you should have daily. Six to eight glasses of water a day? Half your body weight in oz.? Or drink the amount of water/hydration your body needs throughout the day. Typically, going based on (I'm getting gross) your urine output (how much you pee) every 2-4 hours: is it dark yellow? Yellow? Or clear with a yellow tinge to it. Or is your poop regular? Are you pooping 2-3 times a day? If your urine is clear with a yellowish tinge and you're pooping 2-3 times a day... you are hydrated. You are drinking plenty of water. If that is not the case, then try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon in addition to 4-6 oz of what you are already drinking each day till you see a difference.

Second, Sunlight. Did you know that spending 15 minutes in the sun (weather permitting) every morning stimulates the natural production of Vitamin D? It also lifts your energy, reduces inflammation, and boosts your immune system. An increase in sunshine, along with hydration, can also assist you with your weight management goals.

The Nine Foundations of Health are the backbone of Pathways To Freedom Natural Health. It is my go-to for all my clients. Every one of my clients, regardless of their personalized programs, will receive a handout explaining these foundations and how they can (when applied) build a successful experience to achieve their wellness goals. Let's dive into it, shall we?

Third, Food as medicine. At Pathways To Freedom, we focus on using food as medicine. What is that? Great question. Using food as medicine is the practice of taking specific foods to help your body function on all cylinders. For example, the Mediterranean Diet. This dietary theory helps boost metabolism, reduce inflammation, increase proper sleep hygiene while balancing blood glucose in type 2 diabetes, and can help lower blood pressure. For more information on food as medicine, book a Complementary Consultation, and we can explore your wellness goals and start a targeting protocol that can enhance your quality of life and potentially remove the diet anxiety.

Fourth, Rest/Sleep. Let's face it... we all know about this one. 7-8 hours of sleep a night. WHAT!!!! Who gets that? I know I don't, and I'm a professional. I'll be the first to admit I am blessed to get 6. It is possible though. Getting enough sleep depends on your mindset and how you treat your body. How much do you mean to yourself? Whenever I apply the Nine Foundations of Health, I sleep so much better. It's true. One would think to stay consistent. That is just as hard. However, whenever the Nine Foundations of Health are implemented throughout your day, you'll be surprised how much sleep you get.

Breath & Body work, Spirituality, and Mindful Movement will continue in the following posts. Stay tuned.....