By Somashekhar Lamani
Apprentice, Department of Information and Public Relations, Karwar
Earn more money, build a luxurious house, buy an expensive vehicle and earn respect and status in society. These have become important goals for many people today. But in the pursuit of such ambitions, do we find enough time to care for our health? Are we overlooking the very thing that makes a peaceful life possible, while trying to show others how successful and comfortable we are? These are questions worth asking in today’s fast-paced world.
Everyone knows the saying, “Health is wealth.” But how many of us truly live by it? Good health allows us to work, earn a living, fulfil our wishes and face life’s challenges. But when health fails, money, property, power and social status can not guarantee peace of mind. Despite knowing this, many of us fail to give health the attention it deserves.
Life was different in the past. People generally ate home-cooked food, engaged in physical work, including farming, followed regular meal timings and made time for rest. They also had more opportunities to remain close to nature. Everyday activities kept them physically active without the need for a separate exercise routine.
Times have changed, and so has our lifestyle. Technology has advanced, transport has become more convenient and many tasks can now be completed with less effort. However, physical activity has declined, eating habits have changed and work-related stress has increased. The very conveniences meant to make life easier may sometimes be pushing us towards a more inactive way of living.
Today, people are caught up in work, business, family responsibilities and financial pressures from morning till night. Busy schedules often mean irregular meals and a preference for readily available food over nutritious options. Exercise is put off for lack of time, while hours are spent in front of mobile phones and computers. Many also stay up late and have to wake up early the next morning, leaving little room for adequate rest.
Such habits can affect both physical and mental health. Lack of exercise, an unbalanced diet, insufficient sleep and constant stress may increase the risk of health problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. The absence of mental peace can also affect our quality of life.
Social media adds another dimension to the problem. Some people compare their lives with the luxurious lifestyles displayed online. The desire to own expensive things, live like others and gain social recognition can push people to work harder and spend beyond their means. In this race, it is important not to lose sight of our health, spend time with family and have peace of mind.
Another worrying trend is the tendency to ignore health problems. Some people dismiss even minor symptoms. Work pressure, lack of time or simple negligence may lead them to postpone a visit to the doctor. In some cases, they seek medical attention only after the condition has worsened.
Seeking treatment when illness strikes is important, but preventing health problems wherever possible is equally necessary. People should be aware of their health, avoid ignoring unusual symptoms, seek medical advice when needed and undergo health check-ups as recommended by doctors. Health does not simply mean being free from disease. Physical fitness, mental well-being and a balanced social life are also important. Caring for the mind is just as necessary as caring for the body. Staying healthy does not necessarily require joining gym or specialised diets. A few simple changes in our daily routine can make a meaningful difference.
Eating a balanced and nutritious diet, walking regularly or engaging in suitable physical activity, getting enough sleep, maintaining personal hygiene and taking breaks from work are important habits. Avoiding smoking and other harmful habits is equally necessary. Spending time with family, meeting friends and pursuing activities we enjoy can also help reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
Children should be taught the importance of healthy eating, sports, exercise and cleanliness from an early age. Adults, too, should set an example by following healthy routines. When family members care about one another’s well-being, healthy habits are more likely to become part of everyday life.
In today’s society, success is often measured by a person’s income, job, house, vehicle and social standing. But success can not be defined by these alone. Being physically healthy, enjoying peace of mind, spending happy moments with family and being able to carry out daily activities independently are also important achievements.
There is nothing wrong with earning good money, building a good home, enjoying modern comforts or striving for progress. The problem arises when we sacrifice our health in the process. The purpose of earning is to lead a better life, not to devote our entire lives to earning money. It is wiser to protect our health while we are healthy than to realise its value only after it deteriorates. Just as we devote time and effort to earning money and maintaining appearances, we must also make room for our health.
Ultimately, health is the foundation that allows us to enjoy the wealth, recognition and status we acquire. True prosperity lies not in displaying our wealth to others, but in preserving our health and peace of mind. It is time to slow down in the race to impress others and pay attention to what our body and mind are telling us. Money lost can be earned again. But neglecting our health can have consequences we may later have to face. The importance we give to health today lays the foundation for a happier and healthier life tomorrow.
