In our Adviser Corner articles, we often speak about how to protect your financial future, but what about our personal health and wellbeing?
Of course, our friendly advisers are not fitness coaches, but they have learned a thing or two in their own journeys towards a healthier lifestyle. So, this month, we asked them to share their stories.
Caleb Hill: the gym habitual
Caleb swears by the gym, having made it a habitual practice in his life for a number of years. And he explains there’s much more to working out than just physical appearance, pointing out the often-overlooked benefits.
“One of the most noticeable effects for me is natural endorphins,” Caleb says. “Physical activity always leaves me feeling positive, if not at least accomplished. Plus, it stimulates my appetite; after all, fuelling your body is important in order to keep your energy levels high, as caffeine can only help so much.”
But for Caleb, the crowning benefit of a good workout is… “A good night’s sleep. The physical exertion means I don’t have any unspent energy by the time I go to bed. That’s why I like to work out primarily at the end of the day. This gives me some time to decompress after a long day of work, and I believe that improving your physical health should not come at the detriment of your mental health.”
Struggling to fit exercise into your busy schedule? Check out our article here. Or, for sleep secrets from a seasoned sleeper, click here
Tony McComb: saying goodbye to an ‘old friend’
Tony surprised us all when he shared his bold decision to stop drinking alcohol this year. "I said goodbye to my old friend, alcohol, this year. And I quickly realised how my life and body is much better and healthier without regular doses of poison," Tony says.
While he initially worried about missing the social side of drinking, he found that, in reality, his social experiences improved. "I'm able to enjoy social events so much more and feel great the next day."
To make things easier, Tony took advantage of the free seminars offered by AIA Vitality, a health rewards and discount programme available to AIA clients. "I know people who had used the Quit Smoking programme with amazing success, and although I had doubts, was amazed at how effective the Quit Alcohol programme has been for me."
Need an extra reason to quit a bad habit? Lower insurance premiums. If you quit smoking for a least 12 months let us know, as you may be eligible for non-smoker premiums, reducing significantly your insurance costs. Learn more here.
Ben Laurenson: the golf enthusiast
When not advising on insurance, Ben switches gears during his downtime, often trading in his office for the expansive greens and tranquility of the golf course. "On most weekends, you can find me out on the golf course, enjoying the fresh air and stretching my legs as I play," Ben shared.
With its blend of natural and manicured beauty, the golf course becomes a tranquil oasis from the hustle and bustle of daily life. And it’s there that Ben finds his zen: "Despite the occasional challenge of hitting my shots off target, I always feel cheerful after a round of golf. It's a great way to get some light exercise while also immersing myself in nature."
For some it’s golf, for others it can be surfing the ocean, or a meditation session in their own backyard. The key thing is to find that unique activity that provides joy, keeps you active, and allows you to engage with the world around you. What is your go-to activity to unwind?
Bruno Gasper: the road cyclist
"I love spending my free time cycling outdoors," our own Bruno shares. The appeal of open skies, varied terrains, and the simple joy of motion make cycling more than just a hobby for him. It’s a lifestyle, a form of self-expression, and a quest for personal growth.
Bruno is on a mission, and each pedal stroke is a step towards the competitive racing scene. His sights are set on 2024, with a commitment to hone his skills and stamina to compete in races. “Cycling has given me the drive to better myself and cultivate a strong sense of discipline in pursuit of my fitness goals.”
It’s a reminder of the power of setting goals – no matter the areas of your life. And it’s a testament to the transformative power of sport, not just for the body, but also for the mind and spirit.
Here to help
From quitting harmful habits to enjoying outdoor activities, active health choices offer numerous benefits. As you strive for your healthiest life, remember LifeDirect is here to provide financial security against life's unpredictability.
At the end of the day, insurance is about peace of mind. It's about living life to the fullest, knowing you're financially protected from the unexpected.
Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current developments or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.
