Staying healthy, for me, is all about consistency and balance. With over 30 years in physiotherapy, I've seen firsthand how movement is the key to long term health. One of the best things I've done for myself is incorporating a structured strength and mobility routine into my daily life. I used to focus heavily on running and high intensity exercise, but over time, I realized that mobility, core strength, and stability were just as crucial. Now, I make time for a mix of Pilates, resistance training, and targeted mobility work to keep my body strong and prevent injuries. My background in musculoskeletal health has helped me fine tune my own routine, ensuring it supports posture, joint health, and long-term function rather than just fitness goals. A great example of how my experience has helped me stay healthy was when I suffered a lower back injury a few years ago. Instead of immediately relying on passive treatments, I used my knowledge of biomechanics and rehabilitation to design my own recovery plan. I focused on improving my hip and core stability, gradually increasing my range of motion and strength. Within weeks, I was back to full function, avoiding what could have been a chronic issue. This experience reinforced what I teach my patients every day, proactive, intentional movement is the best way to stay pain-free and maintain long-term health.
The single thing that has helped me most in my well-being is the consistent practice of yoga. Moving with awareness, focusing on breathing, and creating space in the body has retrained physical and mental health. Yoga strengthens the muscles, flexibility improves, and circulation improves. The more subtle benefits reach beyond the body, though. A daily practice promotes awareness, releases tension, and fosters emotional balance. The habit of showing up every day, even for a short session, builds strength and builds a deeper connection with the body. Consistency is the most important thing. There are some days when the practice is dynamic and engaging. There are other days when it is slow and reflective. The needs of the body shift, and yoga adapts. Meditative breathing reduces cortisol levels, while meditation on the present moment enhances concentration and emotional regulation. These simple-to-use tools combat the impact of contemporary stress and balance the system. Outside of yoga, whole foods and sleep have been at the top of the list. Sleep is necessary for recovery, brain function, and immune system function. An unprocessed, plant-based diet provides the body with what it needs for sustained energy. Hydration is also a priority. Sufficient water helps digest food, remove toxins, and maintain joints. These lifestyle changes, with the addition of yoga, give the body a strong foundation for good health to last. Health is not something one reaches but does. Tiny, mindful decisions have long-term payoffs.
The best thing I've done for myself is finding something worth waking up for every day. When I was diagnosed over seven years ago and told I had as little as six months to live, I asked my doctor what I could do to extend that time. His answer wasn't about diet or exercise--it was about purpose. That changed everything for me. My family, friends, and our adventures have been a constant source of strength. But building Aura has been just as important. It's given me focus, kept my mind sharp, and given me a reason to push forward. When we first launched on Crowdcube, support from friends, family, and early investors made it possible. That kind of belief in what we were building gave me even more drive, and I'd like to think we've repaid that faith--those who invested in 2020 have seen their share value grow tenfold. Of course, I take care of myself physically. I stay active, eat well, and manage my stress. But none of that would matter if I didn't have something bigger pulling me forward. I've learned that health isn't just about what you put in your body; it's about what fuels your mind and spirit. Purpose keeps me going. And as long as I have that, I'm still in the fight.
As a California native, I've found nothing beats the mental and physical reset of hiking our local trails -- it's become my non-negotiable weekly ritual after witnessing how it transformed a particularly stressful period in my life. Three years ago, when I was juggling multiple demanding clients and barely sleeping, I committed to hiking Mission Peak every Sunday morning, rain or shine, and watched my anxiety levels plummet while my creative problem-solving abilities soared. The magic happens about 30 minutes in, when my breathing synchronizes with my footsteps and my mind clears enough to process the week's challenges from a refreshed perspective. I've closed more deals and created better itineraries from insights that have come to me while traversing those dusty California trails than I ever did staring at my laptop. If you're feeling stuck or burned out, find your local trail and make it your sanctuary -- the combination of movement, nature, and disconnection creates what I call a "perspective shift" that no indoor workout can match. Remember: the best ideas rarely come while staring at screens, but almost always while staring at horizons.
Staying healthy is all about consistency, not perfection. The best thing I've done for myself is make sleep a non-negotiable priority. For years, I treated sleep as optional, thinking I could just push through with caffeine and willpower. But once I committed to getting quality rest--setting a strict bedtime, reducing screen time before bed, and optimizing my sleep environment--everything changed. My energy levels skyrocketed, my focus improved, and even workouts became more effective. What really made the difference was realizing that health isn't just about diet or exercise; it's about balance. Prioritizing rest helped me make better choices in every other area, from nutrition to stress management. The key is finding what works for you and making it part of your lifestyle, not just another short-term fix. When you take care of your body, it takes care of you, and for me, quality sleep has been the ultimate game-changer.
Healthy living is essential in my demanding career. One of my best decisions is to exercise consistently. Even during tough trial weeks, I walked 10,000 steps daily. This routine boosts my energy and clears my mind for strategic thinking. I avoid processed foods and eat lean proteins and vegetables for balanced nutrition. Effective delegation was another game-changer. As co-founders of Templer & Hirsch and Prime Time Business Network, trusting my team reduced stress and improved work-life balance. These practices have helped me stay focused and recover over $100 million for my clients.