by Monique Runge

The beginning of every year creates an opportunity for a fresh mindset to start anew with better life habits  I recently joined the new EOS gym in San Clemente and found myself surrounded by an entirely new generation of fitness enthusiasts of ALL ages. Everyone works on their strength, cardio and wellbeing with many recovery options. I have more energy and motivation after going to the gym for an hour and being surrounded by others with similar physical and mental goals in mind. A body and mind should always stay in motion.

“Health is wealth” means your physical and mental well-being are your most valuable assets, more important than money, because good health enables you to enjoy life, work, and build wealth.   While poor health creates immense costs and limitations, highlighting that investing in health through good habits and preventative care is crucial for long-term prosperity and happiness. It's a symbiotic relationship: better health leads to more productivity and less expense, while financial resources can buy better care, but without health, money loses its value. 

This ancient wisdom, echoed by Virgil Abloh, emphasizes that without a sound body and mind, wealth and success lose their meaning, making health the fundamental foundation for a rich life.  

• Health enables enjoyment: You can't enjoy wealth, hobbies, or loved ones if you're sick.

• Productivity & Energy: Good health provides the energy and focus to work better and achieve more.

• Foundation for life: It's the base for engaging in life, experiencing joy, and building relationships.

• Prevention over cure: Investing in healthy habits saves future costs and suffering from chronic diseases. 

• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet and prepare meals with healthy foods

• Exercise: Stay physically active, walking at a minimum.  YOGA is your bestie!

• Sleep: Prioritize adequate rest, this is when our bodies heal itself.

• Mental Health: Manage stress and focus on mental well-being with others.

• Checkups: Get regular health screenings for preventative measures every year. 

How these investments in yourself are inter-connected:

• Health Impacts Finances: Illness can lead to job loss, debt, and high medical bills, while mental health issues can hinder financial decision-making.

• Finances Impact Health: Wealth provides access to better nutrition, housing, healthcare, and wellness resources, while financial stress negatively impacts physical and mental health. 

• Reduces financial stress: Financial worries can harm health, and conversely, being physically and mentally healthy helps manage stress, creating a positive mindset.

• Long-Term Investment: Preventive care and healthy habits are like investing in a high-yield savings account, saving you from significant future costs and enabling a longer, more fulfilling life.

Health goes beyond being illness-free; it's about living fully and energetically. Virgil believed everyone can achieve their dreams, often saying, “You can do it too.” Take time this season to invest in becoming your best self for 2026! I promise the return on your investment will be greatly valued.