Health Is the Real Wealth: The Longevity Blueprint for High Performers | Mark Schmidt - 17

Ralph Waldo Emerson recognized the connection between health and longevity when he wrote in The Conduct of Life in 1860, “The first wealth is health.” But how do you prioritize health in the hustle culture we live in today?In this episode, I’m sharing practical health tips to help you build a lasting legacy for your family. As Emerson reminds us, health comes before money, status, and possessions, because everything else depends on it.Get Your Blood Work CheckedJust because your blood levels are in a healthy range doesn’t mean you don’t need to get blood work done. This is a dangerous mistake many people make.Start with an annual basic screening and then consider doing two to four advanced screening tests per year. Your blood levels can change due to stress, diet changes, and other factors. Advanced screenings allow you to see whether things are moving in a positive or negative direction with your health.Check Your Thyroid LevelsYour thyroid affects energy levels, heart rate, mood, mental clarity, and more. If you notice you’re feeling irritable, unusually tired, experiencing weight loss without trying, or having trouble sleeping, ask your doctor for a blood test to check your T3 and T4 levels.Work Out MoreOver the years, our muscle strength declines, and the best way to help with it is by doing more resistance training.Start getting your heart rate up by doing more cardio. Try wearing a fitness watch to make sure you're doing it every day.Some devices can also check your VO2 max, or the amount of oxygen your body uses during exercise. If you’re unsure what your ideal levels are, consider getting a VO2 max test done.Sleep Is Not a LuxuryDespite what our culture tells us, sleep is not optional. You can’t expect health and longevity if you’re not getting enough rest. Our bodies need sleep to repair, so aim to get as close as possible to eight hours each night.Nutrition and HydrationYou may not like it, but try eating less junk food. Hidden ingredients often make us feel tired and weighed down. Even though it’s tasty, it’s not always good for us. Focus on eating more whole foods and watch how your health starts to improve.Another thing to focus on is drinking fewer sugary drinks and more water. Dehydration affects your blood pressure and blood volume, and it can also affect your sleep.Build BalanceAnother thing that happens as we age is that we can become wobbly or off balance. Start doing balance training, and the best part is that you can do this almost anywhere. If you’re struggling to get in shape, consider seeking help from a personal trainer.“Most people don’t hydrate enough, and when you add alcohol into the mix, dehydration happens fast.” - Mark SchmidtResourceStay connected With Us - https://figtreegroup.com/CreditsProduced by bluëmango | STUDIOS. Music by SoundsStripe. Thank you for listening!