Why did I write a song in January 2023 about “My Healthier Things”? During 2022 I typically enjoyed 1-2 units of alcohol per day (they sell Belgian beers at the Total Wine store), BUT I know that the health recommendation for women is zero to one. I decided to do a “Dry January,” which was challenging, with strong cravings around 5 pm.
I really needed to turn to other enjoyable, positive things when I felt those urges. I made a list and then turned it into this song. During my birthday week in February I did ALL the things, including inviting neighbors for a fireside sing-along. And when I noticed that my sleep scores had improved (via my Apple Watch and the AutoSleep app), I extended my dry period through Easter and now imbibe only once a week or so (new guideline: at lunchtime to avoid impacting my sleep, and while being convivial and laughing with others). My “healthier things” (and the friends and family who do them with me!) are helping, as are the interesting non-alcoholic beers also sold at Total Wine… I hope you enjoy the song!
My Healthier Things to the tune of My Favorite Things (I use this karaoke track)
Stretching and yoga and a short meditation
Planning to go on a snorkeling vacation
Riding my e-bike as if I had wings
These are a few of my healthier things.
***
Lifting a dumbbell and feeling my power
Getting massages for over an hour
Listening to music that stirs my heartstrings
These are a few of my healthier things.
***
Setting a timer to break up my work day
Clearing out items for posting on eBay
Enjoying a stir-fry and not chicken wings
These are a few of my healthier things.
***
When temptation and procrastination
Have me feeling sad
I simply do some of my healthier things
And then I don’t feel so bad!
*** One more round!
Declining requests just because I need me time
Reading a book with a warm furry feline
Fireside circles where everyone sings
These are a few of my healthier things.
***
Skipping the beer and protecting my liver
Hiking with friends on a trail by a river
Silencing my phone to avoid all the dings
These are a few of my healthier things.
***
Thinking before speaking, and speaking with kindness
Forgiving myself for my constant behindness
Practicing acceptance, whatever life brings
These are a few of my healthier things.
***
When my heart breaks When my knee aches When I’m really mad I simply do some of my healthier things And then I don’t feel so bad!
Heartfelt thanks to Ronnie H. for your online talent shows which inspired me to get back into writing funny lyrics, to Sarah S. and everyone who came to my sing-alongs, to Kelly for all the great hikes, to Francesca my longtime parody song partner, and many others who have helped me grow into these healthier things!˜
If you’d like support in working on your own list of healthier things (surely quite different from mine) and implementing them in your life, please contact me or make a Zoom appointment here! I’ll even sing you the song live if you want!
