A Vegetarian Foundation
Hema Malini's dedication to health begins with her diet. Coming from a traditional Iyengar family, she maintains a strict vegetarian lifestyle. This involves
avoiding non-vegetarian foods and favoring preparations that are boiled, steamed, or cooked with minimal oil. She also makes a conscious effort to separate her carbohydrate sources by avoiding mixing rice and chapati in a single meal to prevent feeling heavy. This disciplined approach to eating is a cornerstone of her overall well-being and a testament to her commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
Fitness Through Movement
Exercise plays a crucial role in Hema Malini's fitness regime. Her routine includes yoga, dance, and meditation. This combination of physical activities keeps her body agile and her mind calm. The inclusion of dance, a passion for many years, also brings joy and a sense of liberation. Through this integrated approach, she cultivates a balanced lifestyle that enhances both her physical and mental well-being. Yoga and meditation are regular practices for maintaining inner peace and physical strength.
Fasting for Wellness
Regular fasting is an essential part of Hema Malini's health strategy. Twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays, she observes fasts. These fasts are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga. During these days, she consumes minimal sattvic foods like paneer, bananas, and fresh juice, and ends her fasts early in the evening. This practice is based on the belief that fasting helps maintain mental calmness and encourages physical activity. It is a spiritual and practical approach to health, integrating religious practices with physical well-being.
Mindful Morning Rituals
Hema starts her day in a calm and positive manner, setting a good tone for the day. She begins her mornings with a cup of saffron-infused milk tea and a few light biscuits, limiting herself to just two cups of tea daily. This mindful start ensures that she sets a positive attitude for the day. This simple ritual reflects her broader philosophy of mindful living and how incorporating small, intentional practices can shape her day. These moments of quiet reflection contribute to her overall sense of well-being.
Simple, Home-Cooked Meals
Hema prefers home-cooked meals over eating outside. Her diet mainly includes simple dishes such as rasam, kadhi, and lightly cooked vegetables. She enjoys exploring the diversity of vegetarian cuisines, including South Indian, Gujarati, and North Indian dishes. She focuses on making her meals light and nutritious. This approach emphasizes her belief in the benefits of fresh, home-prepared food. It also showcases her love for diverse regional flavors while keeping her diet balanced.
Balance and Devotion
At the core of Hema Malini's approach to health lies the principle of balance, devotion, and joy. She views her overall well-being not just about strict diets or passing trends. Her disciplined lifestyle includes the harmony between exercise, a balanced diet, regular fasting, and the practice of meditation. This equilibrium shows how she cultivates energy, health, and a radiant appearance over the years. Her lifestyle integrates various aspects of her life, promoting a sense of well-being.
