There are countless methods we can use for optimizing our health. Each of us can surely rattle off a bunch right now. Give it a try. Quick. Name three actions you can take to improve your body, your mind, your soul. Good. Now remember what you picked -- and make each one happen.

In a recent newspaper article, one journalist listed 25 ways to live a healthy life. They're all super ideas. But I only have space today for seven. Here they are. Stop back in two weeks, and I'll give you another seven.

Keep your weight in check

Make sure your weight is appropriate for your height, age, sex, and body frame. The American Institute for Cancer Research reports that having an ideal body mass, eating properly, and exercising can reduce the risk of cancer by 30 to 40 percent.

Move more

Physical activity not only improves our chances of living longer, it helps prevent arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other diseases -- five hours of strenuous exercise per week is thought to ward off breast cancer. Exercise relieves symptoms of depression and anxiety, trims the waistline, and serves as a great adrenaline kick. Need I say more?

Go green

Give green tea a try if you want to promote good health. It's an antioxidant and an anti-carcinogen. Studies show green tea helps prevent stomach, lung, gastric, bladder, colorectal, and esophageal cancers.

Align with antioxidants

Some studies indicate an antioxidant-rich diet can prevent free radical damage -- this happens when renegade atoms cause cellular damage, making us vulnerable to diseases such as cancer. The main antioxidants are vitamin E, vitamin C, and beta carotene.

Eat six small meals

Portion sizes have grown and grown in this country, and most of us are shoveling way too much food into our mouths. Doctors and nutritionists recommend eating four to six small meals per day, about every three hours. Give it a go and watch your metabolism speed up.

Quit smoking

Do it now. Smokers, even occasional ones, are more likely to develop lung cancer, high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes.

Know your medical history

Find out what you're up against. If your grandmother died of breast cancer, be aware that the women in your family have a higher risk of developing the disease. Knowing your medical history will allow you to take necessary precautions.