HEALTHY LIVING

TODAY, MANY PEOPLE ARE HEADING TOWARDS FITNESS AND SPA CENTERS TO LIVE A BETTER AND HEALTHY LIFE

    It is said that a healthy mind is the key to a successful future. But considering the modern lifestyle, which has made our lives easier; it is also believed to be the main cause for many diseases. It is often argued that the modern lifestyle, which is a sedentary coupled with wrong food habits and stress, has made us prone to diseases. 
    However, the good news is that people mow-a-days are aware of these ailments, hence are taking precautions at early stages. "Modern lifestyle is no longer a cause for worry because we are equipped with the knowledge of how to avoid these ailments," says 50 year-old Dina Shah. Gymming, dancing and power yoga are some of the means that many people adopt today to tackle the evils of modern health problems. Going by the number of health clubs and spas that have mushroomed in the area, one certainly gets the feeling that they have devised a perfect formula to keep people in the pink of health. "Dance is the fun way to keep oneself fit. We have students of all age-groups from school students to senior citizens, who are interested in learning dance. And at the same time, it is a good way to keep oneself fit," says Elizebeth P, a dance teacher. 
    Fitness, in today's scenario, is not about bulging biceps or rippling muscles. It is viewed as an attempt to stay healthy by all age groups. Therefore, it is not surprising to see senior citizens practicing yoga, or going for their morning walks in parks. Laughter is also considered as the best medicine that explains the emergence of several laughter clubs, including some exclusive clubs for ladies. 
    Gyms are also the most trusted places as far as physical fitness is concerned. And today, to attract more customers, many gymnasiums offer free diet consultation, massage therapies, cardio zone and health monitoring centers — providing the ultimate luxury in fitness to their customers. Spa treatment is another interesting option that people now-a-days opt to have a stress-free life. Gone are the days, when a massage meant a rub from your malishwalas, now even the ayurvedic spa in many areas have repackaged the Indian massage techniques into an exotic experience and luxury therapy. "Ayuvedic massages were earlier done on hard wooden beds, but now we have more comfortable settings, with enough cushioning to support the urban bodies. Likewise, the smelly oils and herbs are replaced by fragrant ones. These oils are specially developed so that the original ingredients are retained," says Anu Menon, who offers spa treatment based on ayurveda. 
    Spa and salon treatment are no longer restricted to the upper-income bracket, even the middle-income group make a visit to these places. Relaxation really counts as stress is identified as the single major cause for many diseases, including the heart ailments. The quest for better health has now prompted the residents to explore new ways to remain healthy in both — body and mind.