Importance of Health

Ignored then, regretting now

I read and listened to the proverbs “Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise”, “Health is wealth”, “Money can buy medicines only, and not health”, “Happiness is the highest form of health” etc. etc. But, throughout, I failed to give proper attention to this issue. 

2. After studies, I worked in a textile industry and then switched over to a Bank job. I was work conscious, not the health conscious. I took care of family affairs as well as office affairs but did not take care of self. Neither I walked nor did I do exercises. Consequently, after midlife and during the year 2005, while posted as Branch Head in one of the branches of Jabalpur city, I developed a severe lumbar pain. It was the result of poor posture, long uninterrupted sitting and lack of exercises over the years.

3. I believe in destiny and knew very well that career progression is not directly proportion to the amount of efforts you put in. Notwithstanding, I gave more than 100 percent to the Bank on the cost of my general health, which was not warranted. But the damage done was done. The curvature of lumbar vertebrae is so disturbed that if I stand up for more than 2 minutes or walk for more than 100 meters, I have to compulsorily sit lest I should fall. For the last seven years I am doing general exercises as well as exercises for strengthening the Back muscles. Now I rarely miss my daily exercise schedule and due to which I am able to take care of my daily routine. सब कुछ लुटा के होश में आये तो क्या किया ...... I know that it is too late too little, but better late than never.

4. Looking to the irregular (food and sleep) habits and faulty life style of the younger generation, God forbid they may repent more than what I did. Since charity begins at home, I often remind my children and grand children regarding importance of health in one’s life. How far they follow the advice, is up to them. I want to give a message to all and sundry through the following Sanskrit Shlok:-

 व्यायामात् लभते स्वास्थ्य दीर्घायुष्यं बलं सुखं,

आरोग्यं परमं भाग्यं स्वास्थ्यं सर्वार्थसाधनम्.

(Exercise brings health, long life, strength and happiness. To be healthy is a great fortune. Health accomplishes all the tasks.)