2nd October marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, a beacon of non-violence, truth, and simplicity. As we celebrate this Gandhi Jayanti, it’s worth noting that Mahatma Gandhi also practiced several healthy lifestyle habits to lead a balanced life. In his book, “Key to Health,” he shares insights on healthy choices that are relevant even today!
His practices, such as portion control, minimal eating, regular walking, fasting, and daily meditation practice, offer valuable lessons in today’s fast-paced world.
By adopting his simple yet powerful habits, we can nurture both physical and mental well-being.
In this Gandhi Jayanti special blog, let’s explore five healthy lifestyle habits inspired by Gandhiji’s teachings. So, what are you waiting for?
Let’s get started!
5 Fundamental Healthy Lifestyle Habits for a Balanced Modern Life
- Physical Activity
Gandhiji considered walking as a natural exercise. He walked 18 km daily and believed that this small habit played a crucial role in maintaining his health. He believed that exercise is vital for achieving good health.
Walking is one of the easiest and moderate-intensity workouts. It improves cardiovascular health, aids weight loss, and reduces stress. In today’s world, where physical activity is hardly seen, a small walking routine can benefit health in great ways.
- Diet and Nutrition
Gandhi ji considered food to be a medicine and followed a balanced diet. He practiced a simple, plant-based diet and consumed more local fruits and vegetables. He avoided processed foods, spicy foods, excess salt, and sugar. He also believed in veganism.
Therefore, in order to lead a healthy lifestyle, you must maintain a balanced diet, avoid overeating, focus on portion control, eat seasonal vegetables and fruits, and avoid fried and processed foods.
A balanced diet filled with whole grains, local fruits, and fresh vegetables can reduce the risk of health issues like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
- Practice of Meditation
Meditation has been practiced in India for centuries, and Gandhiji was deeply devoted to it. He meditated and prayed twice a day, considering it an essential practice for attaining physical and mental well-being. For him, meditation was a way to maintain clarity, inner calm, and balance of the mind.
Adopting the practice of meditation into your daily routine can increase focus, awareness, reduce stress, and enhance emotional well-being. Meditation can also cure anxiety disorders and reduce blood pressure in the long run.
- Benefits of Fasting
Gandhiji believed that fasting was a powerful tool to maintain discipline in life. He practiced it to purify both body and mind, viewing it as essential for fostering self-discipline and overall well-being.
Fasting can benefit your body in numerous ways:
- Controls blood pressure
- Enhances heart health
- Fights inflammation
- Aids weight loss
- Boosts brain function
- Increases body metabolism
- Maintains gut health
Regular fasting is the best way to give your digestive system a break and reset.
- Avoid Tobacco, Smoking, and Alcohol
Gandhiji preached complete abstinence from tobacco, smoking, and alcohol. Tobacco use increases the risk of developing lung cancer, cancers of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, kidney, bladder, etc. Smoking causes lung disease, heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Daily alcohol use can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and several other cancers.
Gandhiji firmly believed that “prevention is better than cure,” and you too can take charge of your health by adopting positive lifestyle changes.
Limiting tobacco and alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of health issues like cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Therefore, one must avoid consuming these to live a healthy life.
Boost Your Health and Wellness Journey with Crunchbury
This Gandhi Jayanti, let us pledge to adopt healthy lifestyle habits from Gandhiji’s life span. The healthy habits preached by Gandhiji have the power to transform our health in unimaginable ways.
Along with adopting simple lifestyle choices, you can also maintain your health by choosing Crunchbury’s healthy snacks, rich in protein, fibre, and sprouted grains that support better digestion, sustained energy, and overall wellbeing. Crunchbury offers a variety of healthy tea-time snacks, office snacks, and Indian healthy evening snacks that are perfect for every occasion.
Celebrate the Gandhi Jayanti festival by starting your journey to better health with Crunchbury! Happy Gandhi Jayanti!
FAQs
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Which exercise from Gandhi’s lifestyle is best to adopt?
Gandhi considered walking to be the best form of exercise. Walking benefits heart health and is considered best for overall well-being. Being aware of these benefits, Gandhi walked long distances daily.
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How did Gandhi emphasize mental health in daily life?
Gandhi regularly practiced meditation and prayer, which helped him cultivate focus and clarity, reduce stress and anxiety, and foster positive thinking.
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What items did Gandhi discourage using or consuming?
Gandhi strongly promoted a life free from tobacco and alcohol, as they pose serious health issues like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.