For 25 years, I lived a lifestyle that worked against my own health. I worked nights, slept in the mornings, and believed that hard work mattered more than rest. Most days, I slept barely 4–5 hours and thought that was normal.
On top of that, my food habits were no better — eating out regularly, choosing junk over real meals, and drinking processed, sugary beverages. Over the years, these choices quietly built up into bigger problems: **sleep apnea, high BP, constant body stiffness**, and a general loss of energy.
What I’ve Learned (From My Own Mistakes)
- Keep a regular rhythm:** Eat on time and sleep at least 8 hours.
- Move every day:** A 30-minute walk daily is non-negotiable. Add yoga 3–4 times a week if you can.
- Stretch your body daily:It keeps stiffness away and mobility intact.
- Be mindful with food:** If you love food, enjoy it — but limit cheat days to 1–2 a week.
- Stay connected:Keep in touch with close friends you can talk to openly.
- Nurture your passions:If sports aren’t an option, try cooking, gardening, or any small activity that brings joy.
Looking back, much of my health damage came from **carelessness and lack of awareness**. If I had known the long-term cost earlier, I would have made different choices.
So here’s my advice from experience:
A balanced life isn’t a luxury — it’s the foundation for everything else you want to achieve.
AnandNataraj 