Did you know (courtesy of BottomLine Personal) that.... a bad economy can be good for your health? U.S. death rates dropped during the 1974 to 1982 recessions and rose during the recovery of the 1980's. Theory: Time is more valuable when the economy is good, so people work more and spend less time exercising and with family, leading to stress, which can be bad for health. During downturns, people spend more time taking care of themselves and their children, which is good for health. What a conundrum, do you embrace a strong economy and stress, or a downturn and health? Not an issue for me, I desire a strong economy, and find avenues to ensure that my stress levels remain on an even keel. Even now, when I work these crazy hours (getting up at 2:30 AM, at work at 5:00 AM, and not home again until 6:30 PM), I ensure that I take the time each morning to get in my workout - the adrenaline push helps my day start with energy and has the side benefit of keeping me awake on the 45 minute drive. The stress piece has never been a big deal for me, because laughter is the best medicine, and I laugh a lot each and every day. You see, I am a clown at heart, and that is just the way I roll.
I think that one was just for Jamie, eh? ;) I always said that when I stopped being able to laugh at work, I needed to be done with that job. I'm happy to say that although there were stressful times, I always kept my sense of humor. When you lose that, those are bad times, indeed.
ReplyDeleteI hadn't read that take on poor economic times. I think it depends on a number of factors. I know from conversations I've had volunteering at food pantries, bad economic times also bring about more carb-filled, cheap food choices(dollar menu at McDonalds I've heard mentioned over & over) & more tv-watching rather than for-pay activities that are sometimes more healthful. And over & over I've heard people who lost jobs due to the economy say they have since become depressed & gained weight. So some may be living more healthy, but others are seeing the reverse affect. ~Mary
ReplyDeleteHi Ken,
ReplyDeleteFunny, I was thinking something similar earlier today: That people who are out of work can probably eat healthier (home cooking versus sandwiches on the go) and take better care of themselves. I guess the downside is the stress of having to land a new job.
Best,
Marty
Hmmm, I think for me, working keeps me in check... If I wasn't working, I'd be one of those who sit on the sofa watching daytime TV, and munching on chips or ice cream all day!! LOL!!
ReplyDelete