“Be the change you want to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Yesterday marked a major milestone in American history. It’s amazing how the world was captivated with the inauguration of President Barack Obama. As I watched it on TV, it was was uplifting to see so many hopeful faces out in the crowd, tears streaming down faces as the new President took the oath and give his speech.

It was quite an inspirational speech, too, and yet grounded in reality. There was no denying that our country is in trouble, and that Obama’s new job is huge. But Obama also called on Americans to actively participate in creating the change that needs to take place in order to turn the country around.

What can you do to create change?

From a health perspective, there are many things that we can do as Americans to lower our country’s health care bill. If you truly want health care reform, you can start at home – right in your own kitchen.

Lower your own health care bills by taking better care of yourself. Love yourself by feeding your body with healthier foods that give you energy, allow you to heal and make you feel good. Take up the food philosophy of Michael Pollan (author of In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto) – “Eat food, not too much, mostly plants.”

Make sure that you drink your water. Did you know that 70% of our bodies are made of water? Keep yourself healthy, hydrated and balanced by drinking plenty of clean water with nothing added – no drink mixes, sugar, or flavorings. You deserve it.

Get more rest and relaxation in general. If you’re tired, get more sleep instead of relying on caffeine. You get a quick, short-term boost from caffeine but the false energy hurts you over the long term.

Slow down and listen to your body. When you get in tune with your own rhythm, your body can heal itself naturally. It’s when we deny our own wisdom that we become sick.

We are used to turning to quick fixes instead of asking, “What does my body want?” We rely on others to tell us what we want to eat, or which pills we might want to ask our doctors about. We forget that our own bodies have knowledge of what we need to heal, and our cravings are signals to tell us which nutrients we’re missing.

What can you do today that will help you get vibrantly healthy?

If you’re ready to learn how to live a delicious life , contact me. If you want to learn more about how I can help you, start here.

• 7 ways to stay healthy without breaking your budget
• Recipes: Hot Breakfast Rice
• Review of Food Rules by Michael Pollan