Why Health Matters

 

"Health is not everything, but without health, everything is nothing…"

 

said the philosopher, Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860), who devoted himself intently to the topic of health and strove to integrate his findings in everyday life.

 

Among other things he noted that:

 

 

"...in general, nine-tenths of our happiness depends upon health alone. With health, everything is a source of pleasure; without it, nothing else, whatever it may be, is enjoyable; even the other personal blessings—a great mind, a happy temperament—are degraded and dwarfed for want of it. […]

 

It follows that the greatest of all follies is to sacrifice health for any other kind of happiness, whatever it may be, for gain, advancement, learning, or fame…"

 

The truth of these words is clear to anyone who has ever faced serious illness, personally or among family and friends: ill-health or a lack of vitality can have a devastating effect on personal wellbeing, relationships, job prospects, finances, and plans for the future.

 

Scientific research into prevention (prophylaxis) has progressed by leaps and bounds over the last few decades. We are increasingly aware of the connections between our lifestyle choices and state of health. Yet healthcare costs are rising nonetheless, because

 

we don't yet apply what we know to our everyday lives.

 

Further to: The Four Pillars of Health