Modi outlined the government’s vision for the next 25 years, promising opportunities for youngsters across regions. Citing economic growth and global recognition, he affirmed a clear policy. India’s prominent role in addressing global challenges was emphasized, with Modi praising achievements in economy, science, research, sports, and strategy.

Addressing the youth, Modi envisioned a developed India in 2047, urging them to prioritize health and avoid wasting time. He emphasized the government’s unwavering support for the youth and called for a movement against drugs led by religious leaders and social organizations. Modi concluded by saluting the bravery and ideals of Mata Gujri, Guru Gobind Singh, and the Sahibzadas, noting their enduring impact on every Indian.

No more shunning relatives and friends who seem “mentally aloof.” We need less comparisons between each other’s kids and more encouragement of a child’s natural talents. We have to feel responsible and involved in the treatment of our loved ones ailments, physical and mental. Life is tough, & only gets more competitive with every passing decade. Job growth fluctuates, academic standards rise; it becomes difficult to stay afloat amongst responsibilities. In the East and South Asian communities especially, there has always been a strong sense of competition in order to become the best at all we set out to do, from children to adults alike. This need to “become better” must also include an awareness of our mental health along the way. A healthy, nourishing environment during the pursuit of our goals is what will help ease in reversing the taboo. It is important that we create a safe space for us to open up about how we’re feeling, as often as one needs.

About the Author

Nisha Jani earned a Master’s in Exercise Physiology and Sports Medicine from the University of Miami, where she also studied Psychology and Kinesiology. She uses her expertise in exercise & physiology to fuel her lifelong passions of dance, fitness, and teaching. She is passionate about bringing to the community an awareness about the benefits of preventative medicine in the form of exercise and diet, favoring a holistic approach to well-being. After working in cardiology, Nisha is now a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist, applying scientific principles towards improving athletic performance, injury prevention, and nutritional guidance.

On a recent flight to Las Vegas, I found myself mindlessly flipping through an in-flight magazine. My gaze landed upon an article about the benefits of a newly designed floating aerobic cycling class – taking place on a boat, which uses the power generated from the stationary cycles aboard to move down the river. I kept flipping pages. For every “luxury” item advertised, there was an added health-benefit or technological advancement leading towards overall wellness. We have seen it with high-end pilates and Crossfit courses, exclusive yoga retreats, even resorts offering pampering spa packages.

It doesn’t end there. A wide spectrum of products ranging from pure herbal face masks to higher-quality protein powders are on the market. This is perfectly reflective of the current state of luxury – where wellness is the new luxury, a status symbol strongly sought after, driven by trendsetting millennials. As a society, when we think of wealth, “good health” comprises a large piece of the pie, while influencing the other slices still. Travel, fashion, and beauty – three critical components of a “luxurious” lifestyle, are all strongly influenced by good health.

Traveling has become so linked to a “luxurious” lifestyle that it is one of the largest topics on social media. We are quickly shifting from consuming “goods” to consuming “experiences,” many of which center on holistic approaches to health, both mentally and physically. A visit to the mountainside includes new opportunities to hike, see new species, and be “one with nature.” Music festivals offer exclusive chances for camping outdoors together; some festivals are solely for group meditation and celebrity-led yoga events. Huffington Post listed several wellness travel trends in 2016 that included wellness resorts like the Hotel Komune Bali, dedicating a large part of their website to training pools, surfing, even Ayurvedic consults. Luxury cruises offer options for spa and wellness programs, as well as medical facilities offering high-end medical treatment for injury and rehab. Spiritual luxury is evident as well. Many programs promote the attainment of peace of mind, clarity, and happiness.

We find our friends and family investing money in healthy foods, paying for products that contain natural ingredients. Grocery stores like Whole Foods offer more healthful options, including a wide variety of dietary supplements for better skin, organ function, and metabolism. Vegan and organic fast-food options are popping up all over the world and continue to flaunt higher prices for better quality food. Wealth is becoming synonymous with better health.

The body, as research has shown over the last few decades, must be treated well inside to feel and look good outside. Our physique itself is a status symbol. The respect that is often commanded from luxury products is paralleled by the respect commanded from a well-built physique. A healthy, athletic body type is instantly admired, because of the hard work and dedication it takes to achieve. Our clothing brands have shifted towards athleisure, a trend of wearing performance-wear anywhere. Luxury athletic brands like Lululemon, Adidas and Nike promote both everyday and competitive athletic clothing. Being healthy is no longer isolated to a single event – it is promoted as a lifestyle.

We have been told to treat our bodies like temples. Eating right, taking care of your nutritional needs, will always be a “luxury” trend supported by the medical field, backed by health research. Ultimately, the body truly is our most priceless possession.