Today I talk to listeners about the best course of action to take care of ourselves and steward our planet, including the choices we make with our money, the food we eat, and the way we impact our communities. This can seem like an overwhelming task, especially because information can be confusing or conflicting, but today I want to give you some guidance on making choices that you can be confident about. Based on my experience in sustainability and working with governments and corporations, I have formulated a solution in the form of four key questions to ask yourself whenever you need to make a decision that affects your wellbeing as well as the wellbeing of the planet. Making good choices does not have to be hard, and while we should aim to do our best, our efforts need not be perfect. These four questions will show you a new way of thinking about your everyday actions and will encourage you to move more thoughtfully in the world. Be sure to tune in! 

Key Points From This Episode: 

• The importance of taking good action in our everyday lives – despite our circumstances.
• Hear about the four questions I have formulated to help you make good decisions.
• Being aware that popular health and fitness information is often not based on science.
• A list of key food types that can dramatically reduce your risk for heart disease.
• The short and long-term health benefits of exercise and recommendations for all ages.
• Getting enough sleep to boost your immunity, metabolism, memory, and other vital functions.
• Considering whether an activity is good for your mind and spirit and its relation to the body.
• I talk about how I managed to cope with a cancer diagnosis at a very busy time of my life.
• Finding a sense of purpose and how the Japanese concept of Ikigai can help you get there.  

Key Messages:

1. Is it good for my body? Consider food, exercise, and sleep.
2. Is it good for my mind and spirit? Seek balance and purpose, and reduce stress.
3. Is it good for my community? Think about impacts on humanity beyond our own circles.
4. Is it good for the planet? Consider the life cycle of products, activities, and services. 

Quotables: 

“Do not wait for extraordinary circumstances to do good action; try to use ordinary situations.”   — Jean-Paul Richter [0:02:28] 

“Doing what is good for your body is actually not that hard. If we eat mostly plant-based, whole foods, avoid processed foods, eat in moderation, and drink water, we are doing the right thing.” — Kristina Hunter [0:03:59]

“A healthy diet helps pave the way to a healthy heart and blood vessels, strong bones and muscles, a sharp mind, and so much more.” — Harvard Health Publishing [0:04:22] 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Kristina Hunter Flourishing

Harvard Health Publishing (Healthy eating) 

Mayo Clinic (Sleep recommendations)

Ikigai Blog Post 

The Ecology of Commerce

Physical Activity Resource

The Unexpected Gift Box