Always take care of yourself, no matter what

Life brings tragedy as much as it does fortune, perhaps even more so. Last month, my beautiful aunt tragically passed away, at the rather young age of 45. She was a person full of life, love, and care, responsible for running a nursery at which Iranian children would learn to speak basic English.

Upon reflecting on her passing away, I came across a paradox. How could someone so full of life suddenly become exposed to death? After some time, it become clear to me that my aunt had neither reached out to her relatives and friends as frequently as is needed nor had she kept her emotions in a state of control.

I cannot even imagine thinking of how many lives have been lost needlessly because the deceased were simply too consumed in their daily life that they had too little time to focus on and take of themselves. Just think of Robin Williams as another example.

A 21st century lifestyle is very fast-paced. We all have responsibilities to fulfil, deadlines to meet, and places to go. As we endeavour to meet these demanding tasks, we will invariably tire ourselves out, both mentally and physically, and in some cases, even impose a threat on our existence. Yes, it's true.

The warning expressed ruthlessly to me through the passing of a loved one, which I hope to pass on to you, is this: your health takes the utmost priority over anything else, even if you and others think otherwise. It's a simple point, though a much neglected one.

Indeed, my view is that, before one thinks about achieving more money, success, or fame, one should take good care of oneself and reach out to one's family and friends to do so. None of those things - money, fame, etc. - are worth a damn if your well being is poorly managed.

Moreover, if your health receives enough of your attention and time, and is therefore better managed, your productivity levels will shoot up and you will become able to study for another hour or two, go on that extra run, and party with friends at night without experiencing significant fatigue on the next day.

There are simple ways in which one can take better care of one's health: lie in for an additional hour one or twice a week; exercise at least two or three times a week for an hour; and get at least six-eight hours of sleep each night.

Yet managing one's emotions and feelings is somewhat more difficult. Perhaps the best solution here is to seek the support of another person; it does not matter whom seek, but it does matter that you release every ounce of stress and worry from your body by talking and interacting with that person in a meaningful way.

Always take good care of yourself, no matter what. There's nothing more important than that.