Nita Ambani, the chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, is inspiring women to prioritize their health and well-being. At 61, she has shared her personal fitness routine and launched the ‘StrongHer’ movement, encouraging women of all ages to focus on their health. This initiative comes as a reminder that self-care is not selfish but a necessity, particularly as women navigate the physical changes that come with age.
Nita Ambani’s Inspiring Fitness Journey
Nita Ambani’s fitness journey is a testament to the power of embracing a variety of activities to maintain both physical and mental health. She exemplifies that age is just a number when it comes to fitness and self-care.
A Holistic Approach to Fitness
Nita Ambani’s fitness regimen is a masterclass in holistic well-being. It combines discipline and passion, incorporating various activities to keep her body and mind active. Her weekly routine includes:
- Leg Workouts: “Leg days are my favorite. I have the strong legs of a dancer,” she says, attributing her leg strength to her lifelong practice of Bharatanatyam.
- Upper Body Strength Training: She mixes up her routine, dedicating specific days to upper body workouts.
- Yoga: An essential part of her daily routine, promoting flexibility and core strength.
- Core Exercises: Focusing on strengthening her core for overall stability and balance.
- Mobility Drills: Enhancing her range of motion and preventing injuries.
- Swimming and Aqua Exercises: Adding variety to her routine and providing a low-impact workout.
- Dance: Dedicating an hour to dance on some days, reflecting her passion for staying active and enjoying her fitness journey.
- Walking: When traveling or with limited options, she walks 5,000–7,000 steps to maintain her commitment to fitness.
The Importance of a Balanced Diet
Nita Ambani also emphasizes the importance of nutrition in her daily routine. As a vegetarian, she focuses on organic, nature-based foods and avoids sugar and artificial substitutes.
- Vegetarian Diet: She follows a balanced vegetarian diet, rich in protein to support muscle strength.
- Organic and Natural Foods: Prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods that nourish the body.
- Avoiding Sugar: She strictly avoids sugar and sugar substitutes, which she believes is crucial for maintaining long-term health.
The ‘StrongHer’ Movement: Empowering Women to Prioritize Themselves
The ‘StrongHer’ movement is a call to action, urging women to prioritize their well-being and make time for themselves. Nita Ambani reminds women that strength is not defined by age or physical appearance but by the unwavering commitment to self-care.
A Message of Encouragement
Nita Ambani encourages women to take that first step towards their health, stating, “If I can do this at 61, so can you. Take time out. Prioritize yourself. Show up for yourself. Just 30 minutes a day, four times a week.” She emphasizes that it’s never too late to start and that even small changes can make a big difference.
Addressing the Unique Needs of Women
Nita Ambani acknowledges the physical changes that come with age, particularly for women. She notes that after the age of 30, women lose about 3-8% muscle mass per decade, which accelerates as they age. This loss of muscle mass, bone density, and decreased metabolism makes it even more important for women to prioritize their health and well-being.
A Holistic Approach to Women’s Health
The ‘StrongHer’ movement promotes a holistic approach to women’s health, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It encourages women to:
- Prioritize Self-Care: Making time for activities that nourish their bodies and minds.
- Embrace a Balanced Lifestyle: Combining exercise, healthy eating, and stress management.
- Focus on Strength and Flexibility: Building muscle mass and maintaining flexibility to prevent injuries and improve overall mobility.
- Find Joy in Movement: Choosing activities that they enjoy and that fit into their lifestyles.
- Nourish the Body from Within: Eating a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Practice Self-Acceptance: Owning their age and embracing the changes that come with it.
Nita Ambani’s Broader Initiatives for Women’s Health and Empowerment
Nita Ambani’s commitment to women’s health extends beyond the ‘StrongHer’ movement. Through the Reliance Foundation, she has launched several initiatives to provide healthcare and support to women and children in underserved communities.
Health Seva Plan
On the 10th anniversary of Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, Nita Ambani launched the Health Seva Plan, pledging free screenings and treatment to over 100,000 women and children from underprivileged backgrounds. This initiative provides critical healthcare services, including:
- Congenital Heart Disease Screening: Free screening for 50,000 children.
- Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening: Free screening and treatment for 50,000 women.
- Cervical Cancer Vaccinations: Free vaccinations for 10,000 adolescent girls.
Her Circle
Nita Ambani launched Her Circle, a digital platform for women, on International Women’s Day 2021. This inclusive and collaborative platform provides women with a safe space to connect, share their stories, and access resources on health, wellness, career, and personal development.
Reliance Foundation’s Health Outreach Program
The Reliance Foundation’s health outreach program provides free and subsidized primary and preventive healthcare to people in the vicinity of Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital. This program has served over 350,000 beneficiaries, providing essential healthcare services to those in need.
Nita Ambani: A Champion of Women’s Health and Empowerment
Nita Ambani’s dedication to women’s health and empowerment is evident in her personal fitness journey, the ‘StrongHer’ movement, and the various initiatives she has launched through the Reliance Foundation. She serves as an inspiration to women of all ages, encouraging them to prioritize their well-being and take charge of their health. Her message is clear: self-care is not selfish, and it’s never too late to start.
