There’s no doubt that genes play a role in transmitting physical and mental traits. Individuals with family histories of illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, mental health disorders, and addictions are at a higher risk of developing these conditions. However, that doesn’t mean that someone must succumb to these illnesses. Instead, we can use this information to protect against the likelihood of becoming ill.
We all play a significant role in our physical and mental health. Self-care is the most crucial factor, especially for those with a family history of certain conditions. The gene that dictates that we must drink alcohol, eat poorly, or treat our bodies poorly does not exist. How we care for our bodies is a choice. While it may be more enjoyable to eat, drink, and be merry, it can also lead to poor physical and mental health.
Our bodies must be cared for according to their design. Proper nourishment requires protein, fruits, and vegetables rather than processed foods laden with sugar, chemicals, unhealthy fats, and other toxins like alcohol. Although our organs can withstand a significant amount of assault, there comes a point—like any wall that is constantly bombarded—when they begin to break down. Even organs built with the best DNA will eventually fail under continuous abuse.
While attributing poor health to genetics can be true in some cases, nearly all physical and mental health issues are more fundamentally linked to lifestyle. If you simply google the causes of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory, and kidney diseases, you will find that excessive alcohol, sugar, trans fats, and smoking are at the root of most of these illnesses.
Genetics serve as important warnings to avoid factors that can worsen illnesses. However, we cannot stop there. You are the most important physician you will ever have. Treating your body as intended, regardless of genetics, is essential for maintaining good mental and physical health. Instead of blaming your genes or other influences, take responsibility for self-care. Making choices that are right for your body, rather than those that feel good, can lead to a quality of life that is healthy and fulfilling, rather than one that relies on constant medication and medical procedures to prop up a structure that is continually under attack. Ultimately, this comes down to loving yourself.
You deserve good health and well-being. When you treat your body like the sacred temple it is, you will naturally show it the respect it deserves. This way, you can fully enjoy your life with a healthy body and mind.
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Donna Marks is an educator, licensed psychotherapist, and addictions counselor in Palm Beach, Florida. She has worked with over 6,000 clients. Donna’s struggle with addiction brought her to a worldwide search for healing. She became licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in 1987. In 1989, she earned a Doctorate Degree in Adult Education, then became Certified in Addictions, Gestalt Therapy, Psychoanalysis, Hypnosis, and Sex Therapy. Donna developed an award-winning addiction training program at Palm Beach Community College. She co-owns an outpatient treatment program and serves as a consultant to treatment centers. For 36 years, she has taught A Course in Miracles.
Donna is the author of three books: the multi-award-winning title Exit the Maze: One Addiction, One Cause, One Cure, and Learn, Grow, Forgive: A Path to Spiritual Success, The Healing Moment: Seven Paths to Turn Messes into Miracles of Love, and her latest fiction, Fortis & Sapiente – A Tale of Two Lovers Who Successfully Navigate the Murky Waters of Love. Donna is a public speaker and has shared her methods with millions of listeners on podcasts and radio shows.
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