A bit of a personal post but since I have started my 7th 88-hour water-only fast today, I thought it would be a good occasion to talk about physical health and its impact on careers like ours, which do not involve physical labor.
I mean, I get it. As domain investors, freelancers, and digital entrepreneurs, our primary tools are our brains. We spend countless hours in front of screens, analyzing trends, managing portfolios, and making critical decisions. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that our mental prowess is all that matters. However, I’ve learned firsthand how crucial it is to take care of our physical health as well. Fit body, fit mind, as they say.
A few years ago, after the birth of my son, I made a conscious decision to prioritize my health. At that time, I weighed 90kg. Through dedication and commitment, I managed to bring my weight down to 68kg. This journey wasn’t just about losing weight; it was about systematically adopting a lifestyle that promotes overall well-being.
One of the most significant changes I made was incorporating intermittent fasting into my routine. For the past two years, I’ve been practicing intermittent fasting and recently, I completed my seventh 88-hour water-only fast. I do these once every three months, on the 15th each time. These fasting experiences have been transformative, not just for my body but also for my mind.
Here’s why I believe prioritizing physical health is essential for all of us, especially those who earn a living online:
Enhanced Cognitive Function
Regular physical activity and a healthy diet increase blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive functions. This improvement means better focus, sharper memory, and more effective problem-solving skills. Our brains are incredibly powerful, but they need proper fuel and care to operate at their best.
Stress Management
We all know the stress that comes with our work. The constant pressure to stay ahead of trends, manage investments, and meet deadlines can take a toll on our mental health. Exercise is a natural stress reliever. It releases endorphins, which help us manage stress and maintain a positive outlook, even during tough times.
Sustained Energy Levels
Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise ensure that our energy levels remain consistent throughout the day. This consistency translates into more productive hours and reduces the risk of burnout. When our bodies are in peak condition, we can tackle our work with vigor and efficiency.
Resilience and Immunity
A healthy body is more resilient to illness. This means fewer sick days and more consistent performance. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep boost our immune system, keeping us healthier and more reliable in our professional lives.
Quality Sleep
Good physical health promotes better sleep. And as we all know, quality sleep is crucial for cognitive function, mood, and overall well-being. When we sleep well, we wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day’s challenges with a clear mind and positive energy.
Since moving to our farm, physical activity has become an integral part of my daily routine. The manual labor involved keeps me grounded and connected to nature, providing a perfect balance to the digital world we navigate daily. This connection with nature and physical work has been incredibly rewarding, both physically and mentally.
Practical Steps to Improve Physical Health
- Regular Exercise: Find an activity you enjoy and stick with it. Whether it’s walking, running, cycling, or even manual labor on a farm, regular movement is key.
- Balanced Diet: Focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your diet.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Hydration is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall health.
- Intermittent Fasting: Consider trying intermittent fasting. It has numerous health benefits and can help regulate your eating patterns.
- Adequate Sleep: Prioritize your sleep. Create a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation and stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
As a conclusion, I guess, I urge all of you to take a moment to reflect on your physical health. Small changes can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. Remember, our work may be brain-intensive, but our brains are housed in our bodies. Let’s take care of ’em both 😉
I don’t drink or smoke. I play competitive tennis, fishing, gardening and outdoor activities, hiking….etc and avoid negative people.
Go for my massage every 3 weeks- money well spent
Same. One thing I forgot to mention is precisely this, the fact that what you *don’t* do (smoke, drink alcohol, etc.) can be even more important than what you do.
Andrei— good health to you and your family!!
Thanks and right back atcha!