June is Men's Health Month and all month long I've shared some insight from local men on their views of health and how they maintain healthy minds and bodies. I interviewed men of different ages but you'll notice there are common healthy habits among them all.

Our 4th interviewee this month is: Chad Summers (pictured on the right)

Age range: 42-49

Place of Employment: Healthy Harvest Urban Farms

Q1: On a scale from 1-10 (10 being top priority), how would you rate health and wellness as a priority?

A: 10

Q2: If asked to describe complete well-being, what would be your definition?

A: Positive mental awareness, physical, spiritual and a healthy diet are what come to mind.

Q3: Where do you go to get reliable health information?

A: I read from an assortment of different doctors in the field like Caldwell Esselstyn and T. Colin Campbell.

Q4: What are some things you do currently to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

A: I live a whole-food, plant-based, organic lifestyle. This also comes with a low-impact daily workout in the warmer months consisting of everyday garden chores.

Q5: If you could give a piece of health advice to other men in your age range, what would it be?

A: Eat a lot less meat and dairy and less processed foods and more whole foods. Eat more plants!!!

Q6: What about to your younger self?

A: Well, without living the way I did, I would have never come to the place or understanding I am now. So if you still want an answer it would be to stay away from the processed foods.

Q7: Any other thoughts on the matter?

A: Eat more from the Earth and less from a box.

Thank you to Chad for sharing some great advice! That concludes the Men's Health Interview Series.

What out what Eli Mayfield, Kyle Meyer and Peter Fox said about health and wellness.

We can conclude by summarizing what we learned from all of these men, of different ages and backgrounds.

1. Well-being is a balance of the different dimensions- physical, mental, social, spiritual, financial and emotional. Reevaluate each dimension regularly for optimal health.

2. It's important to seek out trusted, reliable sources for your health information needs but it's also important to trust your intuition and listen to what your body is telling you.

3. When it comes to diet, focus more on whole, plant-based foods and reduce your consumption of meat and processed food products. Variety is key!

4. In addition to diet, physical activity and stress relieving techniques can improve your quality of life and provide relief from the everyday "hustle and bustle". So take time to breathe and engage in activities that will open your heart and mind.