I turned 45 recently! But my annual health report shows that it looks like the report is of someone in his 30s.
I’m neither a gym freak nor a marathoner. In fact, it is evident that I do not have bulky muscle! I’d like to soon start at least light gym or exercise.
I’m just like any professional who is fairly at senior position – juggling work, deadlines, targets, city traffic, finding difficult to get time for self or family and any other sort of stress. Additionally, I have gained 3 KGs in last couple of months.
People asked me – how do you manage to look younger, fitter, healthier than your age? At times, I only thought of my physical appearance, and I responded lightheartedly “looks can be deceptive” and dismissed the question.
When this question was asked too often I started thinking about possible reasons.
When I looked deeper, I found four big levers of health:
- Genetics – no control, thanks Mom and Dad.
- Lifestyle – long hours, stress, traffic, only partly in our hands.
- Food – this one matters. At home, we eat balanced, mostly fresh meals. Think dal, sabzi, whole grains, fruits, nuts, everyday real food. Rarely junk. That credit goes to my wife.
- Spirituality – my daily anchor, 20+ years of Art of Living practices.
My this deeper analysis has given me this insight – what could be different in many others vs what I do is combination of above. I have control on some of these and some are God’s gift. I mean parents and wife :).
What is complete in my control is part of life style, food I eat and my Daily practice of Art of Living Sadhana. I’ve been pretty regular with it since 2004. For the past 20 years, I’ve practiced Sudarshan Kriya, pranayama, meditation – every single day. That consistency has been my anchor. It keeps my stress low, my energy high, my mind clear – and yes, those health numbers reflect it.
You don’t need extreme diets or punishing workouts. If you anchor yourself in two things – simple, mindful eating and consistent spiritual practice – it can transform your health and your life.
I would seriously and sincerely recommend – Art of Living Happiness Program and regular practice of the same after the course.
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