Many people sail through their lives without paying much attention to the most miraculous gift they’ve ever been given – the human body. Each of us gets one, but what do we do with it, and how can we learn to be more aware and support it so it can work for us longer and better?

Your body gives you clues along the way which can guide your focus to important aspects of your body’s function – your weight, your ease in breathing, your ability to digest your food, how well you sleep and how refreshed you feel when you wake up, and many other simple observations can give you valuable feedback about your health and the condition of your body parts.

For example, if you (or someone you care about) are tired, parched when you wake up, prone to minor headaches or if you find that you are not as regular as you could be in the bathroom, it may be as simple as increasing your water intake – these are signs of dehydration. Could they relate to more serious conditions? They could, but try some water first, about eight glasses a day or more, and see if that helps.

If you (or those you care about) find that you are putting on weight, you may need to watch your food intake, exercise more, or if you are eating well and exercising but still gaining weight, you may need to consult some wellness professionals to find out how you could reset your habits so they work better for you. You may need to combine your foods differently or change your exercise routine.