That’s a very important question if you really think about it.

So yesss!!! A handy acronym to help us all remember what the really important things are for both – for living longer but for living longer with optimal health – because that bit needs to come first – our optimal health is what is going to enable us to live longer. Prevention rather than cure.

So here we go…

S is for SLEEP

Hugely underestimated, sleep (i.e. enough good quality sleep) really is essential for the body to repair, reset, and restore itself — without it, we can’t function at our best.

• Repairs muscles, organs, and cells
• Consolidates memories, learning, and mental health
• Clears brain waste (via glymphatic system)
• Balances hormones (growth hormone, cortisol, insulin)
• Strengthens immune system and heart health
• Regulates metabolism, appetite, and emotional health

H is for HYDRATION (… Water, but SWIELD??? 😉 )

One I have always struggled with, yet critical for supporting circulation, nutrient delivery, and overall body function — without enough water, we simply can’t thrive.

• Supports blood flow and circulation
• Regulates body temperature and boosts energy
• Maintains electrolyte balance for nerve and muscle function
• Aids metabolism and detoxification
• Improves skin elasticity and heart health

I is for INTEREST

Taking an active interest and being mindful and aware of the world around you keeps your mind sharp and supports emotional well-being — curiosity fuels a sense of purpose and engagement.

• Keeps the mind sharp and engaged
• Reduces stress and promotes emotional resilience
• Fosters mindfulness and combat loneliness
• Enhances relationships and positive mindset

E is for EXERCISE

This one shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone. We all know (don’t we?) that regular exercise is key to building strength, energy, and longevity — without movement, the body declines over time.

• Strengthens muscles, bones, and heart
• Reduces stress and boosts mood
• Improves circulation, flexibility, and joint health
• Enhances sleep, cognitive function, and digestion
• Lowers risk of chronic diseases and improves longevity

L is for LOVE

Yes, Love. It is a fundamental human need (both giving and receiving) — it nurtures emotional health and fosters connections that enrich life.

• Reduces stress and promotes emotional stability
• Enhances self-esteem, satisfaction, and relationships
• Provides emotional support and a fulfilling, purpose-driven life

D is for DIET

A healthy diet goes beyond just the food we eat; it encompasses the entire spectrum of what we consume in our lives — food, environment, and relationships. This forms the foundation of our well-being. A holistic approach to diet fuels the body and nurtures the mind.

• Fuels the body with essential nutrients and vitamins
• Supports mental clarity, energy, and a healthy environment
• Reduces stress and promotes strong relationships
• Improves emotional and physical well-being

Final Thought

So there you have it, brief but hopefully packed with info and food for thought. There is so much more to be discussed on each of these but the point of this handy acronym (Shield, quite appropriate too, non?) is to give a useful way of remembering what is important when considering how to really look after our health and well-being.

The most commonly looked at are usually diet and exercise but the other 4 are just as important and in my view often the ones we abuse the most. Take a good look and get yours cleaned up. It will pay off many times over. There are no short cuts.