Introduction – A Holistic Approach to Health
Health is not just the absence of disease, but the balance of body, soul, and mind. Over recent decades, more and more research has shown that the lifestyle of modern societies has significantly diverged from natural rhythms. Dr. Roger Seheult, a specialist in intensive care and pulmonology, is the creator of the health framework known as NEW START. It is a scientifically grounded yet simple-to-follow model built on eight core pillars that guide us toward a long and healthy life. He developed this framework based on his work with patients, offering support for adopting a more conscious and structured lifestyle.
NEW START – The 8 Pillars of Health
The acronym stands for:
N – Nutrition
E – Exercise
W – Water
S – Sunlight
T – Temperance
A – Air
R – Rest
T – Trust
Let’s break down what this means:
1. Nutrition
Proper nutrition plays a key role in health. A plant-based diet rich in unprocessed foods supports gut flora, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent chronic diseases. The common recommendation of half a kilogram per day is easy to remember and includes both fruits and vegetables, though many emphasize vegetables due to their fiber and nutrient content. A 2023 Harvard study found that followers of the Mediterranean diet had up to a 30% lower risk of cardiovascular issues.
2. Exercise
Regular physical activity not only improves appearance but reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and enhances cellular oxygenation. According to Japanese studies, just 15 minutes of brisk walking daily improves insulin sensitivity and reduces stress hormones. Dr. Seheult notes that while medications may have side effects, exercise offers 'side benefits' such as improved mood and resistance to illness. It’s the only habit that positively impacts all other pillars simultaneously.
3. Water
Water is crucial both internally and externally. Staying hydrated supports cellular metabolism, while external water use, such as alternating hot and cold showers or sauna, strengthens the immune system. A Finnish study found that sauna use 4–7 times per week reduced cardiovascular mortality risk by 42%.
4. Sunlight and Light Therapy
Sunlight is one of the most important yet underrated health factors. Dr. Seheult calls its deficiency 'the scurvy of the 21st century.' Infrared rays can penetrate up to 8 cm deep into tissues, stimulating mitochondria, increasing energy (ATP) production, and reducing oxidative stress. Red light therapy harnesses these effects specifically.
Lower mortality rates are observed in sun-rich areas, independent of vitamin D levels. A Swedish study found that women who spent more time outdoors had lower mortality from cancer, cardiovascular, and non-cardiovascular diseases. Lack of sunlight had a mortality risk equivalent to smoking. Modern humans spend 90% of their time indoors – a habit worth changing. The best sun exposure times are early morning and late afternoon, when the sun’s position provides more infrared and less UV light.
Red light therapy devices can be especially helpful during darker months. Studies show that even 15–20 minutes may enhance mitochondrial function.
5. Temperance
This vital but often overlooked pillar involves moderation. Excessive consumption of stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco burdens the body. It also includes learning to manage stress in personalized ways such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies.
6. Air
Fresh, oxygen-rich air is essential for physical and mental health. Trees and plants release aromatic compounds (phytoncides) that boost immunity and promote relaxation. Japanese research shows that spending a single day in nature can increase natural killer cells’ number and activity for up to a week.
7. Rest
Rest is crucial for hormonal balance and recovery. Disrupted circadian rhythms can lead to fatigue, hormonal imbalance, and immune weakness.
Modern life often brings bright nights and dim days, whereas we need bright days and dark nights. Artificial nighttime light suppresses melatonin, delaying sleep and confusing the body clock.
Bedrooms should be completely dark. Avoid lamps, nightlights, alarm clocks, and LEDs. Blue light glasses may help, but switching off all light sources is best.
8. Trust
Spiritual peace and community support play a huge role in mental health. Studies show people with faith experience 25% less stress and depression on average. Faith helps people manage anxiety and stress. Those with spiritual beliefs or part of a supportive religious group report less anxiety and depression. Unconditional forgiveness is also linked to reduced depression and dissatisfaction, benefiting overall health.
Conclusion
Health isn’t just about genetics or luck – it’s the result of daily decisions. The NEW START model shows how our body’s self-healing mechanisms work best when aligned with nature’s rhythm. Light—whether from the sun or red light devices—plays a vital role by recalibrating our body at the cellular level. Rethinking our lifestyle and rediscovering our ancient ally, light, may be the key to thriving in the modern world. The secret to long-term health lies in simple, consistent habits.
Sources
https://www.earthy30.com/blog/newstart-eight-habits-for-increased-immunity
https://www.havasdora.hu/blog/napi-fel-kilo-nyers-zoldseg-sima-ugy/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQJlGHVmdrA&t=5772s
