Dubai: Fitness is a multi-dimensional way of life. It involves not just making an effort physically, but also striving for a mental and emotional equilibrium. Eating right, sleeping well and physical activity are the practical ways that are easier to follow. However, there is also the emotional and mental aspect to fitness, and these are as important to pay attention to.
So how does one get into the groove of fitness? How do we fit all this into our busy and already overloaded lives? Everyone seems short on time, between work, family, children and daily responsibilities it’s hard to think of carving out a space of free time to get to a gym or take to a yoga mat. People also have financial responsibilities that don’t allow them to join gyms and taking classes. But seriously this does not have to be the case. We are all conditioned into believing that a fitness activity must be limited to running or swimming or lifting weights, some kind of labelled sport.
This isn’t necessarily true. Keeping physically fit can involve something as simple as taking the stairs instead of an escalator or lift, when it can be done, walking instead of driving to get somewhere close, for some they’ve already incorporated it into their daily activity when they use the metro or bus to get to and from places. Eating right also does not have to entail adopting expensive diets. Take a look at the vegetables and fruits sections at the local grocery stores, and the array of spices used in the local diet actually have individual health properties. A little bit of research and healthy recipes and meals can be made at home. Getting enough sleep, or lack thereof, is one of the most common complaints. Most people tend to stay up later than they should because of they are busy with technology or needless activities that distract the mind from resting. And this is one habit that can be easily corrected with planning and commitment.
Energy is a bit of a chicken and an egg situation. Ironically if the right action is taken with eating right, sleeping well and getting physical where possible the body responds with boosts in energy. It has positive effects on the individual’s emotional and mental wellbeing. Mindfulness, meditation and gratitude are all easily adopted into daily lives without having to spend money. These are tools that require use and practice, not regular classes. Gaining equanimity builds more physical energy that allows for more physical activity and restful sleep. It becomes a healthy cycle.
- The writer is a Dubai-based wellness expert
