Eat, drink and be merry for it may just save your life.
I was happy to attend a festive holiday party with my Ahwatukee Toastmaster friends last week and little did I realize that it was supporting an anti-cancer lifestyle.
The annual white elephant gift exchange is a lively and often hilarious tradition at many Toastmaster year-end gatherings and this one did not disappoint. The devious antics played out and the most “stolen” gifts were a Ruth Bader Ginsburg action figure and a particular plunger of questionable origin ( new, with tag).
The biggest gift of the evening came to me a few hours after the party, while I was reading in bed. While scrolling through notification messages on Facebook, I noticed an interesting article posted by my good friend Nancy in Texas. I clicked on the story and dove into an intriguing piece written by Dr. Lorenzo Cohen, a Houston based Professor and Researcher who introduced the “Mix of Six” as a way to reduce ones risk of developing cancer.
At this point you may be wondering, is the mix of six some new drink recipe?
No, it’s not the latest libation trend but rather group of factors and lifestyle choices which, when combined, can radically transform health and delay or prevent many cancers.
The Mix of Six factors include:
- Social and Emotional Support
- Stress Management
- Sleep
- Physical activity
- Diet
- Environmental toxins
The bonus is that the fun, laughter and social connectedness I enjoyed from the joyous Toastmaster event was supporting my health in ways I never imagined (plus the food, especially the homemade samosas, was delicious).
Bottom line: Emotional support and fellowship is the best medicine for combating loneliness and illness.
The White Elephant in the room could be your best Doctor!
But wait, there’s more!
Research shows that having a strong circle of positive, supportive family and friends helps with stress management which in turn helps with sleep. It’s like getting a 3 for 1 deal toward your the magical mix of six.
Warning: Overstuffing on holiday food and drink can be can be slippery slope and should be enjoyed in moderation.
So be present and give yourself the gift of health this holiday season. Enjoy connecting with others in the light heartened spirit of sharing, laughing and sometimes “stealing” a white elephant gift!
Festive gatherings and silly, zany gift exchanges are a fun and wonderful way to share in a circle of wellness and jolly goodwill.
Strong Words & Simple Truths 
Nice reminder of what is important in life. thank you.
Thanks much for the positive and helpful message. Even though I ‘Know’ this, I too often forget this great message.