Boost Your Health and Vitality with an Active Lifestyle

In recent times, more and more people are falling prey to lifestyle diseases, largely due to poor eating habits, poor sleep patterns and the lack of physical activity. A research paper published by the National Institutes of Health presented alarming data. It was declared that the prevalence of diabetes in individuals belonging to the age group of 15 years to 49 years stood at 4.90%. Among those individuals, 24.82% were suffering from undiagnosed diabetes with males showing a higher percentage compared to females. (Source: NIH) However, there is a positive aspect to such health-related surveys: they can raise awareness and help people recognize the crucial need for adopting a healthy and active lifestyle. Additionally, many TV programs and talk shows featuring doctors are also contributing to this awareness, urging people to lead active, healthier lives free from life-threatening diseases.

According to a Times of India report, an increasing trend can be observed among Indians turning to fitness post-COVID. The pandemic has significantly altered their outlook on health, with nearly 70 percent of Indians stating that they will prioritise lifestyle and dietary changes for health and fitness in 2021. The inclination towards a fitness-oriented, active lifestyle has emerged as a result of the pandemic, which highlighted the high mortality rates among people with lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension.

Steps & Strategies Towards Enhancing Fitness

• At-Home Workouts
  

Home workouts are a popular trend nowadays. People are engaging in home workouts using home gym equipment like stationary bikes, dumbbells, and resistance bands.

• Virtual Fitness Classes & Apps

Many are also resorting to virtual fitness classes and apps. In these classes a wide range of exercises starting from Pilates and yoga to dance workouts and high intensity interval training are offered. Attending these online fitness classes offers all the ease of exercising from the comfort of one’s home and is marked by convenience and flexibility.

• Outdoor Activities

In the cities people are turning to green spaces like parks or residential areas for outdoor activities like jogging, walking, and cycling. Many are also joining swimming clubs to reap the benefits of one of the best full-body exercises- swimming. These outdoor activities have gained sufficient traction and are indeed the simplest ways to maintain fitness in this otherwise hectic life. Most people pursue these outdoor activities in groups to make these more enjoyable. 

• Yoga & Meditation

Yoga and meditation have always been a part of Indian culture but in recent times the holistic benefits of these fitness measures have been recognized anew. There are many individuals who practise yoga regularly either through guided sessions or through online yoga classes. Even meditation’s popularity has surged and people are practising meditation with the support of apps that other online platforms.

• Healthy Eating & Drinking Habits

Indians are making dietary changes to eat and drink healthy and enhance their fitness quotient. They are now incorporating more fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins into their daily diet. They are also trying to stay well hydrated through an increased intake of water and healthy beverages like fresh fruit juices, buttermilk and lassis, ragi malt, Aloe juice, coconut water, green tea, and more. These healthy drinks can fuel your body with energy for day-to-day activities. Among these healthy beverages green tea enjoys a huge reputation due to its high content of antioxidants that come with several benefits for your health.

• Wearable Fitness-based Technology

Wearable technology-based devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers are being used largely to monitor physical activity and overall health. The use of these devices may help one set fitness goals, track progress and stay motivated.

• Improving sleep quality

Good sleep quality optimises physical and mental health. This happens because sleep can help your body repair itself and recover which, in turn, enhances physical performance and brushes aside fatigue. You can improve your sleep quality by trying out the following non-addictive sleeping aids:

1.       Taking a soothing shower
2.       Using room-darkening shades
3.       Using an eye mask to block out light
4.       Using earplugs to block out loud noise
5.       Diffusing lavender oil
6.       Drinking chamomile green tea before bedtime

The Takeaway

In recent years, an increasing number of Indians have embraced a heightened awareness of their health, orchestrating a harmonious symphony of wellness through varied approaches. With a growing emphasis on an active lifestyle, many are turning to fitness regimes and mindful practices to enhance their well-being. This shift towards health consciousness is mirrored in their dietary choices, where healthy foods and beverages like green tea have taken centre stage. By incorporating these nutrient-rich options into their daily routines, Indians are crafting a vibrant melody of vitality and longevity, ensuring they remain fit and fine amid their busy lives.