“He who has health has hope. And he who has hope has everything.”

~Arabian Proverb

Abraham Heschel said, “Self-respect is the root of discipline; the sense of dignity grows with the ability to say no to oneself.” More than anything, good health is the result of discipline and your ability to say “no” when you need to. Saying no to sleeping in when you could be exercising, saying no to the cheeseburger when it could be a salad, saying no to something that will add more stress to your life. No question about it…good health and discipline are joined at the hip.

In Brian Tracy’s personal development seminars, he teaches the five “Ps” of excellent health. Read them often as a reminder of what it takes to stay healthy.

The 5 Ps for Good Health

1. Proper Exercise

The most important exercise for a long life is aerobic exercise. Walk, run, swim, etc., to get your heart rate up to a high level for at least thirty minutes three times a week.

2. Proper Diet

As Ben Franklin said, “Eat to live rather than live to eat.” The keys, according to Tracy, are lean sources of protein, a variety of fruits and vegetables, and lots of water.

3. Proper Weight

You’ll look good, feel good and feel more in control of your life when you’re at a healthy weight.

4. Proper Rest

More than 60 percent of adults do not get enough sleep. Most people need eight hours a night. You also need regular breaks from work, both weekends and vacations.

5. Proper Attitude

This, according to Tracy, is perhaps the most important of all. The quality that is most predictive of health, happiness and long life is “optimism.” The more optimistic you are about yourself and your life, the better your health in all areas.

So focus on the five “Ps” to stay healthy, stay happy and to stay motivated.

If you’d like more lessons like this, purchase “Charging the Human Battery:  50 Ways to Motivate Yourself” at the Inspired Faith Gift Store from Beliefnet.

Reprinted by permission of Simple Truths (c) 2011. In order to protect the rights of the copyright holder, no portion of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent. All rights reserved.