“You will receive a body. You may love it or hate it, but this one body will be yours for the duration of your lifetime on Earth.” — Dr. Chérie Carter-Scott
We all have one.
It carries us through life, shapes our experiences, and is the lens through which we interact with the world.
Yet, our bodies can be a source of both immense frustration and profound joy.
Dr. Chérie Carter-Scott, in her book If “Life Is a Game, These Are the Rules“, poses a powerful question: do you see your body as a burden or a gift?
To understand what she meant a little better, let’s dive a little deeper into this first rule…
Or, get Dr. Cherie’s NEW book “Life IS a Game” and uncover the lessons that she learned by following the 10 Rules for Being Human for over 50 years.
Rule 1: “You will receive a body”
The first rule Dr. Carter Scott lays down is blunt: “You will receive a body. You may love it or hate it, but this one body will be yours for the duration of your lifetime on Earth.”
This is not a rule to be taken lightly.
It’s a call to awareness, urging us to confront the often complicated relationship we have with our physical form.
Your Body is Your Vessel
For many, the body is a battleground.
We fight against its perceived flaws, chasing unrealistic ideals projected by media and societal pressures.
This constant dissatisfaction breeds negativity and disconnection.
But what if we shifted our perspective? What if, instead of seeing our bodies as things to be controlled, we saw them as incredible vessels for experience?
Our bodies are the instruments through which we taste the sweetness of ripe fruit, feel the warmth of the sun on our skin, and experience the exhilarating rush of movement.
They allow us to connect with loved ones in a comforting embrace, to dance with wild abandon, and to explore the world with curiosity.
Embracing your body is a journey, not a destination.
It involves self compassion, celebrating what your body can do, and working towards a healthier you, not a “perfect” you.
When you start to see your body as a partner, not a foe, a world of possibilities opens up.
You can move with more confidence, embrace new experiences, and radiate a newfound self acceptance.
This doesn’t mean ignoring the realities of physical limitations or health challenges.
But it does mean approaching our bodies with a sense of appreciation and care.
How to Take Care of Your Body?
Just as we wouldn’t expect a car to run perfectly forever without maintenance, our bodies need to be nurtured with healthy food, movement, and rest.
At Life Coach Code we call The Body one of the 4 fundamental pillars.
It’s the one that can make every other pillar flourish to unimaginable heights or function with a fraction of its potential if not taken care of the right way.
It’s the platform from where you flourish from.
Your partner for life!
So let’s delve deeper into answering the question “how to cultivate a healthy relationship with your body?”
Here are some fundamental practices to keep your body healthy and strong…
1. Fuel it Right.
Think of food as the fuel your body needs to function optimally.
Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Lean protein sources and healthy fats are also crucial for building and maintaining muscle and keeping you satiated.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated, water is essential for every bodily function.
2. Move Your Body.
Physical activity is not just about weight management, it’s about strengthening your heart, lungs, and bones.
Find activities you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, swimming, hiking, or team sports.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week.
3. Prioritize Sleep.
When you sleep, your body repairs itself and recharges.
Most adults need 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep nightly.
Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and prioritize a sleep conducive environment.
4. Listen to Your Body.
Your body is constantly communicating with you.
Pay attention to hunger cues, fatigue, and pain signals.
These are messages that shouldn’t be ignored.
Learn to differentiate between healthy cravings and emotional eating.
Rest when your body needs it, and don’t push yourself to exhaustion during exercise.
5. Manage Stress.
Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health.
Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, spending time in nature, or spending time with loved ones.
6. Practice Good Hygiene.
Maintaining good hygiene is a crucial aspect of respecting your body and keeping it healthy.
This includes regular showering or bathing, washing your hands frequently with soap and water, brushing your teeth twice a day, and keeping your clothes clean.
Proper hygiene helps prevent the spread of germs and keeps you feeling fresh and confident.
These are options, not mandates.
Ultimately, it’s up to you what you choose to change.
If you imagine that you will live a short life, then you will go for instant gratification, however, if you are going to live a long life, then imagine the ideal condition for a long, fulfilling, and happy life supported by a body that is truly your partner.
Your body is your only partner from birth to death.
Therefore, determine how you want to treat it so that you and your body are in harmony.
Listen, acknowledge, and act following your body’s guidance and needs.
This is your “Inner body” talking to you.
This is an opportunity for a reset…are you ready?
Are you willing?
Are you committed to honor, cherish, and trust your dearest partner, your body?
It’s the only one you’ll get, and it deserves your respect and appreciation.
And if you want to dive deeper into how to play the game of life, get Dr. Cherie’s NEW book “Life IS a Game” and uncover the lessons that she learned by following the 10 Rules for Being Human for over 50 years.
If you want to learn more about Dr. Cherie visit her website.
