World Health Day 2023: You are hit if you are fit 

The same wisdom abounds in every language of the world. In English it is ‘Health is Wealth’ while in Hindi it is ‘Jaan hai toh jahaan hai!’

These timeless proverbs seem simple and boring on the surface but be careful. They house a deep dark meaning. Let me example this the way Gen-Z kids prefer. 

Imagine, you go on a trek to a lovely hill station with your besties. However, you end up staying alone at the hotel because your health won’t permit the exertion as everyone else goes ahead leaving you behind. 

The same can be said for food. Think of yourself at a superb dinner party, but you get to eat only the medically prescribed food while others feast on savory delicacies.

The harsh truth is, all the treasures and pleasures of the world fade away when the body and mind are unhealthy. No matter how authoritative and clichéd it may sound, it is indeed one’s duty towards oneself to stay healthy in all aspects.  

April 7 is observed as World Health Day. And this year it’s even more special as The World Health Organisation (WHO) observes its 75^th anniversary. The theme for this year is totally apt and relevant: Health for all!

Quite simply, it translates into the fact that all citizens of the world have an intrinsic right to health and medical services without much financial complexities. At a secondary level, it also questions the lack of doctors, hospitals and medical care services.

Speaking about the same, popular orthopaedic surgeon and sports injury specialist Dr Nishit Bhatnagar stated, “Everyone deserves equal and easy access to high quality affordable healthcare services. Unfortunately delivering this in a country of our magnitude is extremely challenging. But remember, diseases do not differentiate between upper, middle and lower classes. Thus, I would suggest that the key is to save for a rainy day. Budget your resources, prioritise prevention ahead of cure, and invest in at least a basic health insurance scheme if possible. I believe these measures will help any family negotiate through a major health crisis.”

While savings and insurance schemes may help one battle the illness at hand, one must also investigate the factors that lead to an unhealthy lifestyle. Let us tackle one of the most pressing concerns – Lack of time for exercise and rest due to long working hours. Most modern day professions have to be mindful of leaving employees with enough time for exercise, nutrition, rest and sleep.

Dr Nishit Bhatnagar opines, “Unhealthy lifestyle is the biggest reason for the global rise in obesity, metabolic diseases and cardiac events among younger age groups. The solution lies in our own hands. We have to consciously prioritise health over wealth. Various studies have shown that a sound 6-8 hours of sleep reduces blood pressure, improves metabolism and reduces stress/anxiety disorders.” He further added, “One has to be mindful that physical and mental well-being are two sides of the same coin. A majority of people including myself have been guilty of hiding behind the excuse of not having ‘enough time for exercise’. It is high time we realise that we just have one body, so we have to treat it with respect at all costs.”

Going with the Doc’s advice, exercise is then the cheapest and best medicine and antidote to disease. But why do people then give up on their exercise regimen within weeks despite purchasing the best shoes and clothing accessories to get started with? 

The answer we commonly hear is – It’s not fun! 

The traditional workout at the gym is just one way of exercising. For some, running on the treadmill or lifting weights isn’t enjoyable. Then why not play any sport as it can be a far more engaging way of incorporating fitness in one’s life. Sports helps in forming meaningful relationships with people around us, as one engages in a total body movement without the boredom and pressure of a workout session. 

Apeejay School, Kharghar Physical Education Teacher Mr Kazim Siddique, who is an ace football coach, highlights, “It is crucial to have at least one sport in your life. It keeps you physically fit and also helps in emotional wellness by being a stress buster. Play anything, tennis, football, badminton, whatever you like. Think of it as a fun activity, as one hour away from your stressful schedule. It will keep you happier and I say this with experience, one learns many key life lessons while playing a sport.”

What are you waiting for, dear readers? 

Just pick up a sport and Get, Set, Go!

Make the most of this World Health Day!