Water provides all – from big to small – with healthy blessings
Jodi Davis
| 3 min read
“When you’re trying to make changes in your lifestyle it tends to be easier to take several small steps instead of attempting big ones. Smaller steps are attainable. They don’t overwhelm you.”
Those are true words of wisdom. Not only do I agree with them, but I was reminded of them a few times at a “Lunch and Learn Program” during my recent visit with the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Elders and Tribal members. The conversation was very pleasant as two lovely ladies explained to me that they’ve seen how easy it can be to make changes towards a healthier lifestyle when the steps are just small ones.
Many people living in this wonderful community are taking many small steps towards better health. The steps may be small, but that doesn’t mean that the results aren’t big! One gentleman informed me that he has made small changes in his eating habits and has been walking daily for over a year. I can’t quote the exact amount because he was chuckling with contentment as he spoke, but he said he’d lost over 30 pounds. He felt that the weight wasn’t coming off fast but he wasn’t walking fast either! Congratulations were in obviously in order!
Others mentioned that not only walking has allowed them to take steps toward a healthier mind and body, but taking small steps at mealtime are helping as well. Reducing portion sizes and not going back for seconds can save hundreds in daily calorie intake. Avoiding processed food is also another step towards wellness. These simple steps have allowed many of the Tribal members to realize how much better they feel when they eat fresh and avoid the rest.
Yet of all the small steps that were discussed, there is one that rose above the rest. The health benefits of water. Taking the initiative to eliminate sugary drinks and consume more water is a step that I feel each community member will focus on instinctively. Water provides life. We could not live without this vital necessity; in fact, water is quintessential part of most living organisms.
- Every system in your body depends on water to function.
- Water is essential to your body’s temperature regulation, keeping it cool through perspiration.
- Water flushes out toxins and wastes.
- Water is a major component of blood which carries nutrients and oxygen to and from all cells.
- Water provides a moist environment for all body tissues.
- Water cushions joints and protects tissues and organs like the brain from shock and damage.
- Water helps maintain a healthy weight.
Water not only provides life for human beings but is necessary for all things great and small. This was a brought to my attention in a very special way, which I am extremely grateful for. While at the Notawaseppi Reservation I was honored to witness the annual “blessing of the maple” as we took a moment to give thanks for the water that provides life for all – both big and small.
The mighty maple reminded me again how taking small steps eventually lead to big results. Let’s not ever allow ourselves to forget that.
