Freedom through wellness
Published:Wednesday | August 6, 2025 | 12:11 AMKrysta Anderson/Staff Reporter
Today, as the nation marks 63 years of independence, many will celebrate in bold hues of black, green and gold. Others may use the moment to pause and reflect, considering not just how far the country has come, but what freedom looks like in their own lives. For some, that freedom begins with the simple but powerful act of taking charge of their health.
If you believe in the idea that wellness is a form of wealth, then one of the first steps toward achieving that kind of freedom is to maintain a healthy balance: eating well, staying active, and caring for your mental well-being.
According to Dr Daniel Thomas, many people only begin to prioritise their health later in life, without realising that starting the wellness journey earlier sets them on a better path to living longer, healthier lives.
“Although it is always better to start late than never, starting early and making health a priority will increase your muscle mass, muscle strength and bone density. It is in your teens, 20s and 30s that you actually begin to lay a solid foundation for your lifelong health,” he shared with Lifestyle.
He noted that some people believe fitness, gym workouts, or exercise are only for those aiming to be bodybuilders. This, he said, couldn’t be further from the truth. “Being in good shape and being in good health is everybody’s right. And it is something that’s within your control, for the most part,” he added.
Taking it one step closer to the topic at hand, Dr Thomas took the opportunity to align health with the matter of independence and freedom.,“So many have the ability to go for a walk, to go for a jog, to decide what goes on their plates. That is freedom and that’s a freedom that we’re all entitled to.”
This, Dr Thomas explained, is the reward of taking care of your health. It provides a kind of freedom that allows individuals to live their later years fully and on their own terms, instead of being held back by the burdens of chronic illness.
“You want to age with grace and you want to be able to enjoy your life to the fullest, to the last? I think it’s time to get active, start eating right and pay attention to your social, emotional and psychological well-being . Your health is your greatest lifelong investment,” he highlighted.