More often than not, we jump into health decisions, without even realizing the risks involved in health management. We all want to be healthy and fit but do have the answers to the following questions?

What are the health risks that we are currently living with?

What are the risks involved in the ‘stay healthy’ plan that we have adopted?

Would the health decision that we have taken, assure us of a risk-free health in future?

According to experts the most common health risks that people live with is stress, obesity, frustrations, anger, anxiety and more mental problems over and above the other physical risks associated with chronic ailments like diabetes, hypertension, circulatory/musculoskeletal/respiratory and nervous system disorders. So what do we do? We read some health bulletins or magazines and look up the internet for some ‘stay-health’ diet plans and exercises and jump into a diet and exercise regime, which may bring us more damage than good. So the health decision that we take should assure us of improving health now, as well as assure us of disease-free health condition in future too.

In other words we should assess our health condition in the most correct perspective and then weight the risk and benefit of the health plan that we opt for. By going for a crash diet or a rigorous exercise plan suddenly may jeopardize our health situation further and cause unwanted injury, etc., which in turn makes us more sick. Assessing health risks involves collating information about health, weigh the various alternatives before taking any major decision. For instance, obesity is a health condition which can be a precursor to various kinds of ailments. A simple change in our lifestyles and eating habits could make a major impact without resorting to diet pills and other ‘risky’ alternatives. A brisk walk every morning for about half an hour, dropping foods which are rich in fats and oils, going moderate on alcohol, giving up smoking, including fruits and vegetables are some of the lifestyle changes which can have a major impact on obesity. Stress is another factor which is at the root of many health ailments including heart attacks and stroke, in addition to sleeping and eating disorders. Before you set out to buy anti-anxiety pills or supplements, try some very easy yoga and relaxation exercises at home. Eat foods which are less stimulating to the nerves like caffeine containing drinks, etc. There are various mind disciplining exercises which can help you relax and stay calm which not only reduces stress in life but helps you focus better with a calm and steady mind. Relaxation techniques as taught by yoga can ease a lot of heart and brain disorders too.

 There are enough people who run a risk in their health situation by refusing to ‘change’ their old life patterns. The advice for such people would be to assess the upside of a healthy body and mind and simultaneously weigh the down side of remaining unhealthy. Remember, ill-maintained health catches up with you sooner or later. So even if you come across mental blocks and unsatisfactory results in the beginning, do not give up. After all, you are working for a good cause.