The Economics of Maintaining Good Health

 The Economics of Maintaining Good Health

When we fall ill, not only do we lose valuable time, but we also spend money on treatments. Ironically, sometimes the cure can be more harmful than the ailment itself. Our lifestyle plays a significant role in our long-term health. If we indulge in habits like eating out frequently, consuming alcohol regularly, or smoking cigars, it may indicate affluence, but it also increases the likelihood of developing chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart issues.

In our quest to earn more and more money, we often become so engrossed in the pursuit that we forget about how it affects our health. It's easy to get caught up in the work and overlook the toll it takes on our physical and mental well-being. If you find that your work or activities are negatively impacting your health in any way, it's essential to prioritize your well-being over everything else. Sometimes, stepping away from such situations is the best choice for preserving your health, which is always more precious than any amount of wealth.

Health being paramount if you can walkout of your existing situation , do it .

However, we understand that not everyone can simply walk away from their responsibilities, especially in demanding situations where quitting is not an option. In such cases, it becomes crucial to focus on improving your fitness, especially mental resilience. One effective way to do this is through pranayama, a practice that involves regulating your breath in a systematic manner. By incorporating pranayama into your routine, you can alleviate stress and build mental strength to face challenging circumstances with greater calmness and clarity.

So, while it's important to strive for success in our endeavors, it's equally important to prioritize our health along the way. Taking care of ourselves not only ensures our well-being but also equips us to tackle life's challenges more effectively.

How can we stay healthy and avoid frequent visits to the doctor? It's a lofty goal, but ancient wisdom, particularly from Ayurveda, offers some insights. Ayurveda, considered an upaveda or auxiliary Veda, translates to "knowledge" in Sanskrit.

According to Ayurveda, adhering to three fundamental principles can potentially eliminate the need for frequent medical visits:

Eat Mindfully: Consume food only when hungry. Food serves as fuel for our body, and we should be selective about what we put into it. Eating when not hungry can disrupt digestion and lead to the accumulation of undigested food, which Ayurveda considers akin to poison.

Sleep Well: Sleeping on your left side, preferably with your left hand supporting your head, can promote optimal blood circulation to vital organs. This practice aligns with modern medical advice, as sleeping on the left side eases pressure on the liver and supports healthy blood flow to essential organs like the uterus, kidneys, and heart.

Chew Tambula after Dinner: After dinner, chewing on a betel leaf infused with herbs while taking a brisk 10-minute walk can aid digestion and promote overall well-being.

The Economics of Good Health:

In Hindu philosophy, health is regarded as a form of wealth, among eight different types of wealth, with cash being just one aspect. To maintain good health both now and in the future, consider the following practices:

Regulate Food Intake: Embrace a Satvik diet, focusing on foods that are pure, simple, and promote mental clarity and physical health.

Regular Exercise: Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, with a preference for yoga postures (asanas) and breathing exercises (pranayama), which not only strengthen the body but also calm the mind.

Surya Namaskaras (Sun Salutations): Surya Namaskaras involve a sequence of 12 yoga poses performed in a flowing manner. Each round of Surya Namaskaras provides a complete body workout, involving stretches, flexes, and strength-building exercises. However, it's crucial to note that Surya Namaskaras may not be suitable for everyone, especially individuals with certain health conditions or physical limitations. Therefore, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional or a qualified yoga instructor before starting this practice.

Pranayama with Bahya Kumbhaka: Pranayama, or yogic breathing exercises, play a pivotal role in promoting mental and physical health. Bahya Kumbhaka, a specific pranayama technique that involves the retention of breath after exhalation, has profound benefits for overall well-being. It enhances lung capacity, improves respiratory efficiency, and calms the mind. However, like any other physical activity, pranayama practices should be approached with caution, especially by individuals with respiratory conditions or cardiovascular issues. Consulting a healthcare provider or an experienced yoga teacher is advisable before incorporating pranayama into your routine.

By prioritizing these principles and practices, individuals can invest in their health, thereby minimizing the need for medical intervention and maximizing their overall well-being. Remember, good health is not just a luxury; it's a valuable asset that contributes to a fulfilling life.