I’ve been fascinated by the connection between mind and body since 2012, practicing meditation for mental clarity while staying active whenever I could—a personal mantra I call "Mind : Muscle."
A Wake-Up Call
In 2016, a routine blood donation unexpectedly set me on a more serious health path. I was told my haemoglobin levels were low and advised to eat more iron-rich foods. That simple suggestion led me to begin regular health check-ups—monitoring sugar, cholesterol, thyroid, and more.
The first tests revealed hypothyroidism, and by 2017 my HbA1c results showed I was edging toward pre-diabetes.
Choosing Lifestyle Over Medication
It was my privilege to consult Dr. Ezhilan Naganathan, who once cared for the late Dr. M. Karunanidhi, Tamil Nadu’s five-time Chief Minister. When he reviewed my 2018 reports, he gave me two choices:
* Start medication to control blood sugar, or
* Commit to a lifestyle overhaul—eliminate rice and wheat, focus on vegetables, fruits, and lean meat, and walk daily.
I chose lifestyle change.
Radical Diet & Daily Beach Walks
From October 2018, I cut out rice and wheat for two months, eating only vegetables, fruits, and meat. Rain or shine, I walked 5 km every morning along Marina Beach.
By December, I had lost 10 kg and lowered my HbA1c by 1.2 points—a powerful proof that disciplined effort works. Meanwhile, my hypothyroidism got better, allowing me to stop taking the medication.
Post-COVID Routine & The Gym Chapter
Even after the pandemic, I continued beach walks and mindful eating. Yet the idea of a structured gym routine lingered. On 1 May 2022, I joined Slam Gym on Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore—the day I truly became a “fitness freak.”
One funny moment still makes me smile: a fellow member at the lat machine asked, “What class today?” I innocently replied, “Morning class,” unaware of gym jargon.
Deepening My Practice: Strength & Cardio
For years I focused mainly on strength training, averaging 22–25 sessions a month, while cardio stayed irregular. But an October 2024 cholesterol test was a wake-up call.
Diving into research and scientific studies, I finally understood the distinct benefits:
* Cardio improves heart health, endurance, and longevity.
* Strength training builds muscle mass and enhances quality of life.
Since then, I’ve added structured cardio after every strength session, balancing both for optimal fitness.
A Lifelong Commitment
What began as a simple health check has grown into a passion that shapes my daily life. From meditation to strength training to cardio, my journey is proof that consistent lifestyle choices can transform health and mindset.
