FITNESS IS ALL ABOUT SHOWING UP FOR YOURSELF: SRUTHI HARIHARAN

For months, actor Sruthi Hariharan would post a quick gram with the hashtag #NoMatterWhat, show up at the gym and start her workout at 5 am. The result: A healthy body and a healthier mind. “It took me so long to get here, but I am glad I took that first step,” she tells us. “The first nudge to lose weight came from a friend who told me to do it for a role. The role was a huge motivating factor. But, it was also internal. Until you feel motivated from within, there is no way you are going to show up. Pushing oneself is a big step in your fitness journey” she shares. Excerpts:

‘FITNESS HELPED ME DEAL WITH POSTPARTUM ANXIETY AND IMPROVE MY MENTAL HEALTH’ It has been widely spoken about how fitness is beneficial for mental health and postpartum anxiety. I think it’s 100% true. When you’re facing postpartum anxiety, that little time you’re able to give yourself away from your child, is so important. Many don’t have the privilege to do so because they don’t have help with their child. But, for me that one hour I was able to give myself had a huge impact on me.

‘INVEST IN GOOD TRAINER AND DIETICIAN’ You need someone to guide you through the process, especially if you’ve got a particular goal. A dietician can help personalise your diet, based on your requirements. A trainer will help you with the right exercises and variations that will work for you.

‘Sticking to a healthy diet is a test of your willpower’ At parties, when I see all my friends gorge on yummy food, I would get tempted, but I never gave into it. I stuck to my lime juice and I am very proud of that! Sticking to eating healthy truly is a test of willpower!