“How does your ruling reason manage itself? For in that is the key to everything. Whatever else remains, be it in the power of your choice or not, is but a corpse and smoke.” Marcus Aurelius, Meditations.

Your power to choose your attitude is, arguably, the only power that cannot be taken away from you. What you place value on is up to you. And yet your ability to think and to make those choices depends ultimately on your physical condition. How effective are you at making key decisions when you are hungry, thirsty, tired, cold and emotional?

There’s a lot to be said for ‘sleeping on it’ before making an important decision. Take a step back, take a short break and take the time to make sure you are looking after yourself. After all, a healthy mind needs a healthy body.