I recently watched the Blue Zones documentary on Netflix, about the places around the world where people are living longer with good health and vitality. And what struck me was this: the key factors in living longer, and healthier, are the same as those to heal from cancer.
The research backs this up! The Danish Twin Study established that only around 20% of how long the average person lives is dictated by our genes, and the other 80% is dictated by our lifestyle. And for cancer patients, it’s been shown that those who manage their health holistically – caring for body, mind and soul – are the ones who are living longer.
It is in our power to change our future.
We may not want to live to 100. We may not have cancer. But half of all Australians are living with one or more chronic conditions.
The goal is to be living longer AND better. With less pain and illness, more joy and wellness.
Our environment makes us sick
Healing from cancer is an amazing gift – seeing the value in life, wanting to make your life better. And then wanting to share that with others.
Around the world, many people are advocating for a more natural life to prevent illness. The same principles apply for prevention and cure. If we ignore those principles right when we need them most – at time of diagnosis – we are doing ourselves a great disservice.
The environment that made us sick, cannot make us well. That environment is everything. The environment our cells live in. The environment we live in. The thoughts in our head. The time we spend doing things we love, with people we care about.
This is our opportunity to make small manageable changes – either to heal or to prevent illness or just to live better. We all deserve that.
What does the research say?
So what are these principles? That the Blue Zones research and the Radical Remission Cancer survivors share? Well, they are pretty simple. Good food of course, but no prescribed diet. Just a balance of real foods. Exercise and regular movement throughout the day. Social connection – belonging to a group of people with shared interests is not only enjoyable, it is necessary. And mental outlook, including looking after your thoughts and emotions, and having a purpose for your life. You can read more about the Blue Zone research here.
Now this stuff may not seem easy to begin with, but with some support and guidance, you can make the changes in your life too.
Sadly, 75% of people given a life-threatening diagnosis will not change their diet or lifestyle. It’s impossible to free ourselves of illness without changing our environment, thoughts and behaviours. It is time we put ourselves first, realising that taking time for fun, physical activity, being outdoors and cooking and eating with family and friends, is more important than looking at our phones or working an extra hour or two.
How is cancer related to Blue Zones?
Cancer is a chronic illness. Chronic illness can be managed with diet, lifestyle and emotional support. Medical treatment may be effective in the short-term to remove tumours, and may even keep the cancer away for a while. But it’s only one element of what is needed to prevent recurrence. Our bodies are made up of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual parts. There is no effective treatment for a chronic condition that has built up over years that addresses only the physical self.
Read that again.
My purpose in life
My purpose in life is to heal myself and to share my journey of healing so I can help others like me. Sensitive humans, women with breast cancer, those who have lost touch with themselves, women who need desperately to relearn the art of self care, people who can see that medical treatment is not enough. You can read more about My Breast Cancer journey and My Rainbow Program for healing holistically from Breast Cancer.
We actually have more answers than we are led to believe. It’s possible to find true healing, if we are willing to change and accept support and guidance.
Reach out to me for a chat about your health concerns, and how you can transform your life to live healthier and happier for longer. Kate@ktsnutrition.com and 04686226009 or visit https://moveeasyhealthstudio.com.au/book to book your initial consult.
[…] Our environment is as important as our food. Our mindset is equal to our movement. And when we acknowledge this need for a whole, or holistic approach, we start to heal. Blue Zones show this to be true. […]