The routine of the 'Responsible Patient' by Sir Christopher
The ‘responsible patients’, as all our readers no doubt strive to be (and so do I!), ‘take their MEDs’, where M reminds us of the importance of a positive Mind-set, E emphasises regular Exercise, and D is a ‘vegan-ish’ Diet. The small s stands for Stress, which we should all seek to reduce, or eliminate from our lives. You will say that I have said this before; I will no doubt say it again: this formula is the key to a healthy longevity. But other things also matter, such as fasting, supplements, detoxifying, and, especially, sleep…
Fasting is of two kinds: regular intermittent fasting, and occasional longer fasts (up to two days – with only water!). At present, I practise the first of these, eating my (light) evening meal at 6.00 pm (like ‘tea’ up in the north, where I went to school!) and breakfasting at about 8.00 am, with no snacks between meals. I plan to try a longer fast one day, and will report on the experience – if I survive! Some experts, however, tell us that ‘autophagy’ (the cellular cleaning process, see more below) is best promoted by the longer fast. Perhaps they’re right.
I am a sucker for supplements, and take about a dozen a day. Always consult your doctor and, if possible, get them to arrange regular blood tests to check for deficiencies. Beware of the internet, which would prefer you to take a gross a day at a heavy cost!
Detoxifying your home and environment is a fascinating challenge: at home we have invested (modestly) in both air- and water-purifiers, and believe we can feel the benefit. Check the garden shed, the bathroom and the cleaning materials for toxic products – and dispose of them. Some experts tell us that anything called ‘scent’ contains toxins. Modern life surrounds us with toxic material--from asbestos to agricultural sprays. Be careful, and wash all shop-bought vegetables and fruit, as a precaution.
Sleep is, of course, critically important for health. We should seek to conform to the Circadian Rhythm of life, rising with the sun, and settling down to sleep when it sets. But few of us do, preferring the benefits of ‘progress’ – artificial light and the TV, for example! Nonetheless, try to ensure about eight hours of sound sleep each night. I have created a regular routine for the first and last hours of each day (roughly 7-8 am and 10-11 pm): I start the day with a ‘sauna shower’ (30 seconds hot, followed by 90 seconds cold) and find it invigorating. Next, I go into the garden, barefoot, and without my glasses, to greet the light, count the trees, and feel the wet grass on the soles of my feet. (Then I make two cups of tea, and go back to read in bed beside my dear wife!)
At night, we read together, until we are ready to lie down, when I do some gentle tapping exercises (forehead, chin and chest) and warm my poor feet with toe exercises. (Since you ask, yes, I wear bed-socks!) Then I do some slow measured nasal breathing – I tape my lips together at night – and practise a gratitude routine: find something to be grateful for, working slowly through the alphabet – air, bed, clothing, daylight, evenings, Frances (my beloved sister)… I know X and Z may prove difficult, but I never get that far! Routines help the aged. I hope you all sleep well. Best wishes – and Good Night.
--Sir Christopher
