For decades, the mantra “Eat, Lift, Sleep, Repeat” has been a golden rule for men seeking to achieve peak physical fitness. However, in today’s fast-paced world where mental health is as important as physical strength, this approach seems to be failing modern man’s health.
The traditional routine of eating healthy foods, lifting weights in the gym, getting a good night’s sleep and repeating it all over again has its merits. It promotes discipline and consistency while also contributing to muscle growth and overall body strength. However, this regimen overlooks other crucial aspects of holistic well-being such as mental health and emotional stability.
In recent years there has been a growing recognition of the importance of mental health alongside physical wellbeing. The World Health Organisation defines health as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being’. This definition underscores that achieving optimal health involves more than just maintaining a fit physique or adhering strictly to diet plans.
Mental stressors such as anxiety and depression have become increasingly prevalent among men across various age groups. These conditions can lead to serious complications if not addressed appropriately. Unfortunately, the “Eat Lift Sleep Repeat” routine does not cater for these aspects of wellness; it focuses solely on extenders physical conditioning at the expense of psychological wellbeing.
Moreover, this routine tends to promote an unhealthy obsession with appearance which can lead to body dysmorphia – an intense preoccupation with perceived flaws in one’s own appearance often associated with excessive exercise or dieting regimes.
Furthermore, research shows that isolation from social activities due to strict adherence to such routines can also contribute negatively towards one’s emotional wellbeing. Social interactions play a significant role in maintaining our happiness levels and overall life satisfaction; they should never be sacrificed for fitness goals alone.
Additionally,the importance of rest cannot be overstated when discussing overall wellness.The ‘repeat’ part of the mantra often leads individuals into overtraining which compromises recovery time.Inadequate rest periods between workouts can lead to physical exhaustion and mental fatigue, further highlighting the shortcomings of this approach.
In conclusion, while the “Eat, Lift, Sleep, Repeat” routine may help achieve certain fitness goals, it falls short in promoting a holistic approach to health. It is crucial to incorporate elements of mental and emotional wellness into our daily routines. This could include activities like meditation for stress management or engaging in social activities that bring joy and satisfaction. A balanced routine that caters for both physical and mental wellbeing is what modern man needs for optimal health.
