Prioritise Exercise, Not Weight Loss
The first major shift in thinking that Diwekar advocates for is changing the goal of physical activity. Instead of exercising solely to see a smaller number on the weighing scale, she advises women to focus on consistency. Her recommendation is to aim
for at least three hours of exercise every week. The 'why' behind this is crucial. As women enter their 30s, their bone mineral density reaches its peak, but hormonal shifts also begin. Consistent exercise helps maximise and maintain this bone density, which is vital for staying strong and preventing issues later in life. The goal isn't about punishment or a temporary fitness project; it's about making movement a non-negotiable part of your life for long-term strength and stability.
Embrace Food, Don’t Eliminate It
Diwekar's second principle is a direct challenge to the culture of restrictive dieting. She strongly advises against completely cutting out entire food groups, such as rice, carbohydrates, or sugar, without a compelling medical reason. This approach is rooted in sustainability and enjoyment. When you forbid certain foods, it can lead to a cycle of craving and guilt. A balanced diet that includes traditional and local foods provides the body with the wide array of nutrients it needs to function optimally. She has often used actor Karisma Kapoor as an example, noting that the secret to her sustained fitness isn't some extreme diet but the cumulative benefit of consistent, sensible eating habits over many years. The message is clear: food is meant to be nourishing and enjoyable, not a source of anxiety.
Build Your Health Foundation Now
The third piece of advice is perhaps the most forward-looking: what you do in your 30s is a direct investment in your health in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. Many people wait for a health scare or the visible signs of ageing to appear before they start taking care of themselves. Diwekar argues that the 30s are a critical decade to build the habits that will carry you through life. This involves not just exercise and diet but also paying attention to essential nutrients like vitamin D, B12, and iron, which can impact overall health. The idea is to be proactive rather than reactive. By building a strong foundation of regular movement, balanced nutrition, and good sleep, you are better equipped to handle the natural changes that come with age gracefully and with vitality.
Redefining What ‘Healthy’ Really Means
Underlying these tips is Diwekar’s core philosophy of being 'anti anti-ageing'. She pushes back against the notion that looking younger than your age is the ultimate compliment, stating that looking your age is a wonderful sign of growth, wisdom, and kindness. True health, in her view, isn't measured by your weight or dress size. Instead, it's reflected in fundamental markers of well-being: Do you wake up feeling refreshed? Do you sleep soundly through the night? Can you enjoy your food, including seasonal treats, without guilt? Do you feel light and stable on your feet? For women, having regular, pain-free menstrual cycles is another key indicator. This perspective shifts the focus from chasing an impossible external standard of youth to cultivating a genuine, internal sense of well-being.
