In the article, “Salutogenesis 30 Years Later: Where do we go from here?” colleagues and I published in 2010 in International Electronic Journal of Health Education we began:

Mother Theresa stated that she would not participate in a march against war but would participate if the march were for peace. Such a march would not only empower people to end war, but also help them move toward peace. In her view, the process of creating peace was different than merely ending war. In the same way, health professionals should work to facilitate health rather than merely limit disease.

We started this way because research and results suggest it may be more effective to focus on what we want to create rather than what is to be extinguished . Brain research has shown we can only effectively focus on one thing at at time. Take the classic Selective Attention Test below:

This same logic can now be applied to Cancer. This linked recent Fast Company post asked the question, “Why Do We Still Describe Cancer as a ‘Battle’ or ‘War’?” Research is questioning if the war analogy is best. Some, as in this op ed piece, suggest it is not a war AGAINST cancer, a disempowering stance, but an empowering effort to create health. Recent research linked here suggests both may have value.

To me the choice is simple, I look for what can empower me to live an have a better life. My focus in life is how I can generate comprehensive improvements by creating interactions so everyone and everything benefits through Selfish, Selfless, Synergy. The practice of paneugenesis. What do you think? I look forward to hearing how you contribute! Make it a great day, week, life!

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