In a world that often glorifies drastic transformations and instant results, Michael Mosley's ground-breaking series on Radio 4 and his book 'Just One Thing' offer a refreshing perspective on achieving lasting changes through small, sustainable steps.

From the very first episode that caught my attention – the one focusing on balance – to the broader message of the series, Mosley's insights resonate across different aspects of life.

In this blog post, we'll explore how these small changes can create a ripple effect of transformation.

The Power of Small Changes: Balance as a Starting Point

Michael Mosley's series encourages us to reconsider the significance of small adjustments in our routines.

The episode on balance struck a chord with me.

It was on the radio at a time when every time my dad got up from his chair, I held my breath and crossed my fingers.

My balance was already good even before practicing yoga (short digression - I won a ‘blindfolded balance’ competition at my nieces wedding a couple of years ago and yes, I was pretty pleased with myself about that), and Michael Mosley’s concept of standing on one leg while brushing your teeth truly intrigued me.

But - beyond the surface of humour - this practice holds profound implications, especially as we age, as we shall see...

Balancing Through Life's Journey

As we grow older, our bodies naturally undergo changes that can impact our balance.

This seemingly innocuous aspect of our physicality can have far-reaching consequences. Falls become one of the leading causes of injuries and even fatalities in the elderly population. The spiral of lost confidence and a shrinking world following a fall can significantly diminish one's quality of life.

However, Mosley's episode on balance introduces a remarkably simple solution: standing on one leg.

The Remarkable Impact of a Modest Practice

The beauty of this practice lies in its simplicity.

The act of standing on one leg while brushing your teeth can be easily integrated into daily routines, and its effects can be astounding.

This practice doesn't demand extensive time commitments or elaborate equipment. Yet, the benefits can be life changing. It engages our body's innate balancing mechanisms, potentially slowing down the decline in balance that often accompanies aging.

Embracing the Philosophy of Gradual Change

Mosley's episode on balance challenges the conventional all-or-nothing approach to change.

Instead of overwhelming ourselves with lofty goals, he advocates for gradual transformation. The act of standing on one leg becomes a metaphor for embracing incremental progress (at least it does to me anyway).

This principle is a cornerstone of the 'Just One Thing' series, highlighting that consistent, manageable actions can lead to remarkable shifts.

And it is this that has managed to help me to change half a century of all or nothing thinking. With the help of my guru Dr Mosely, I have made changes. Painlessly. I now have a daily meditation routine; a short walk first thing in the morning and have even starting drinking water.

Empowerment Through Preventative Action

By endorsing the simple practice of balance, Mosley empowers individuals to take charge of their own well-being.

This preventative approach carries immense power. Beyond reducing the risk of accidents, it instils a sense of agency and self-confidence. This empowerment can break the cycle of decline that often accompanies aging, ultimately contributing to a better quality of life.

Conclusion: the Profound Impact of Balance

Michael Mosley's 'Just One Thing' series offers a paradigm shift in our approach to change.

The series reminds us that, by emphasizing small, sustainable actions, profound transformation can emerge from the most unassuming practices.

The episode on balance, particularly its emphasis on the simple act of standing on one leg, epitomizes this philosophy.

It's a practice that holds the potential to transform lives by reducing the risk of falls, increasing confidence, and fostering a proactive attitude towards well-being. In a world that often seeks complexity, this practice teaches us that sometimes the most transformative power lies in the simplest acts.

Makes you think, doesn’t it? If you haven’t listened or read ‘Just one thing’, it’s still available as a podcast on Radio 4.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p09by3yy

What small change of Dr Mosley’s will you make to improve your health and wellbeing? Will it be routinely eating a bit of chocolate? Or drinking coffee? Singing? A cold shower? Learning something new? Starting the day with some kind of physical movement? The list is endless and full of joy.

Happy New Year.

Jordanna

PS - get yourself a journal. Choose 'just one thing' and log your progress.