15 ways to reach health Nirvana—without leaving Savannah.
Perfection, a state of existence void of all error, flaw or deficiency: No matter how you slice it, it’s a lofty goal. Regardless of whether it’s physical, spiritual or intellectual Nirvana, it’s an intimidating concept potent enough to send normally sane people into bouts of sleeplessness and lunacy as they attempt to measure up to the idea.

But that’s not to say we all shouldn’t strive to inch just a little bit closer to that supreme idea of being the very best version of ourselves. Luckily, Savannah boasts hundreds of ways to enhance both the yin and the yang, the spiritual and the physical, the active and the contemplative. The possibilities for a mind or body boost are virtually endless. With that, South presents its first ever guide to becoming the best you—in the best city in the South.

Train
Cost: $50+

When it comes to getting physically fit, some people love to feel the burn. Everyone knows that guy who seems to have an endless supply of self-motivation to work out. And then there’s the opposite kind of guy: He has visions of himself in top-notch shape but simply lacks the drive to reach his goals.

For those in the second category, personal trainers can often make a world of difference in getting actual and lasting results. Jodie Luther-Kofod, a personal trainer at the Downtown Athletic Club, affirms that many people struggling to get fit simply lack the know-how. “We send our kids to school to learn, we take a golf or tennis lesson to improve our game, but when it comes to longevity, health and fitness, and a way of life, we as a culture don’t place emphasis on this correctly,” Luther-Kofod says. It’s her job to teach clients about fitness. She helps them define their goals and rearrange their eating habits in order to reach physical perfection.
For more information on personal training, e-mail Jodie Luther-Kofod at jodie@jodieshouseofpain.com

Volunteer
Cost: free

Giving back to the community is probably one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to instantly add positivity—and some good karma—to anyone’s life and spirit. Shirley Sessions, director of United Way’s volunteer program for more than a decade, has seen time and time again how selfless serving can vastly improve more than one life. “Those who give of their time and talents in helping others smile and laugh more often gain a greater sense of self-worth, experience less depression, and feel they have made a positive difference in their lives through giving and volunteering,” she explains.

Most notably it’s the volunteer’s mood and sense of worth that gets a boost, but Sessions has also heard testimonies that volunteering can have some surprisingly positive health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, instilling a sense of calm and even increasing longevity.
The United Way has more than 100 different service opportunities. Contact Hands On Savannah for volunteer ideas via handsonsavannah.org or 912.651.7726.

Reflect
Cost: free

Unfortunately, too many people’s lives are touched by alcoholism. But since 1935, Alcoholics Anonymous has helped millions of people take positive steps toward improving the quality of their lives and the health of their bodies. In the Savannah area, more than 20 AA groups meet every day to help people caught in the powerful web of habitual drinking take control of their lives. Experts use the well-known 12-step program to counsel people into healthier lifestyles.
Visit savannahaa.com for a list of local AA meetings

Like what you’re reading? Read the full article in the December/January 10 issue of South magazine.