With the onset of a pandemic, remaining fit is becoming a tad harder than usual. Here’s to getting inspiration from your favorite stars on how to keep the rhythm going and maintain a wholesome lifestyle.
What is your philosophy on health and fitness?
I believe that only a healthy and fit body can house a healthy and fit mind. To me it’s extremely important to have a healthy routine because it’s an expression of self-love and self-compassion. If you are not going to look after yourself then you are not capable of taking care of others around you and doing the things that you desire. I feel it is essential that we nourish our body, mind and soul.
Would you call yourself a health freak-elaborate?
Over the years my interest towards being healthy and adapting a fit routine has progressed. I started out with just working out at the gym and in the start, I believed that was enough. I have realized that it is a combination of both. I am also very conscious about what I put into my body now. So I have drastically cut down on sugars. I am also very mindful of what I put in my mind so I focus on good thoughts, getting rid of people who are toxic and I do that ruthlessly now. It’s part of my healthy living regime.
Any fad diets that worked for you?
Honestly, I am not a fad diet person. A lot of my friends are on keto but I just can’t do keto because I am also a foodie at heart. What I have realized over the years is that I am gluten sensitive so each time when I am having a lot of bread and cakes, it does make me bloated. My only fad is I would cut down on gluten periodically and this would allow me to shed down any water weight that I might have carried.
Your wellness routine before going to bed?
I stop eating by 7pm and go to bed by 11pm. I have breakfast by 7am usually so that gives my body a rest of 12 hours. I don’t know if that is considered under the umbrella of intermittent fasting but I try to give my body a rest for 12 hours. I have never had midnight hunger pangs or crave for late night snacks. Though due to my hectic routine I ensure I remain hydrated and take on a few glasses for water before hitting the bed.
Working out at the gym or at home?
Definitely at the gym or working out with my personal trainer. It shows and requires commitment and discipline. No matter how hard you try at home, there is definitely one thing or the other which can make you lose your drift.
The first thing you aim to do right after waking up?
I drink water. Most days I have water with lemon. By breakfast I indulge in a wholesome spread. During my days of poor eating habits, I would overload on carbs like sandwiches even having sweets in breakfast. I now indulge in bulletproof coffee which is coffee with almond milk and I have protein-enriched dish like eggs to go with it.
How do you keep your workout interesting at home during pandemic?
I am a big believer of having experts help you out with that. When I was home, I was working out with my coaches. For the past three years, my personal trainer is Fatima Zara Malik and she is an absolute magician at what she does. I have also incorporated Yoga once a week in my routine for which I go to Sara- a pole athlete. During the lockdown, either we were doing it on the lawn outdoors or doing it online; that kept me on track.
Do you believe in cheat days? If so, what’s the main item on the menu?
I don’t really believe in cheat days but once a week I do have small portions of ‘meetha’ in my diet. Also on days when I play to go to parties, I restrict myself the entire day to enjoy the spread at the gathering.
From where does your inspiration to living fit comes from?
It definitely comes from Jennifer Lopez, who at 50 looks so amazing. She’s an absolute fitness idol.
What remains your favorite healthy food/recipe
My all-time favorite recipe has to be eggs. Eggs in all shapes and forms. I can go for fried, scrambled and omelets. Eggs are my go-to meal, anytime of the day!
When out with friends, where do you often like to dine?
I am very fond of oriental food so you’ll find me in some Japanese, Thai or Chinese restaurant . And if I’m really hungry and the carnivore in me is craving some serious meat, I would be hanging out at a steak place. I also have started to take a strong liking to Sushi Platter so that is my guilty go-to station.
Your favorite smoothie/healthy beverage recipe
While I love all kinds of smoothies and shakes, I am cutting out dairy. Meanwhile I am in love with Hiralicious Bullet coffee with almond milk.
Do you follow and adapt meditation tactics in your daily routine
I am a big believer of meditation and I try to meditate every day even if it’s just 15minutes. It helps you to clear your mind and makes you a calmer person to make wiser decisions.
What are your picks for
the following perfect meals?
Breakfast: Eggs
Pre-workout: One date
Post-workout: Hydrated- Himalayan Salt Water
Lunch: Moderate carbs so home cooked food with brown rice
Dinner: All protein and no carbs, like steak or kebabs
Snacks: handful of nuts
Guilty pleasures: chocolate cake
