Sports and yoga, according to actor Nikkhil Arya, have always piqued his attention and helped him stay in shape. He claims he would always be appreciative to his parents for motivating him to pursue health. For the unversed, Nikhil Arya is known for popular projects like Tere Liye (2010), C.I.D. (1998) and Valentine’s Days (2003).
The actor states, “When I was a kid, being outside always made me happy. I can remember playing a variety of sports in the past. My father, who was a fantastic football player in those days and represented his school and college, is likely the source of my sporting genes. Thank God for the absence of cell phones during that time because I was able to play sports like football (at first with my father), basketball, swimming, cricket, tennis, and table tennis as a child, among other activities.”
He continues, “I am most appreciative of my parents for introducing me to yoga when I was just 4 years old. They had to initially beg and bribe me into agreeing, but after I did, they placed me under Bharatratna BKS Iyengar ji, the best and strictest guru in all of India. When I consider that Guruji blessed our land and made it his home, I feel elated to be a Puneite. He taught me the Guru mantra of proper breathing 24/7, which is one reason why I have been able to survive life with a smile on my face, in addition to asanas and keeping my body flexible and my mind focussed.”
Actor Nikkhil Arya:
Nikkhil adds, “At the age of 7, he used to stand on me. And I remember it so clearly because it was something that only he could do because he was an expert. Moving on, it’s unbelievable that my mother introduced me to the gym. After I completed my tenth grade, she dragged me to Talwalkars, the city’s lone new gym. She joined too, which encouraged me. I obtained a lot of experience and the information necessary to tailor my fitness regimen to meet my specific needs because I was exposed to a variety of exercises and diets from a young age. For instance, I now lift free weights and my own body weight in addition to playing normal badminton, practising yoga (particularly Surya Namaskar and pranayam every day), and walking or running.”
When asked what two or three diet rules he adheres to, he replies, “A plain, natural diet, nothing fancy. I believe that everyone should pay great attention to their bodies and adjust their diet accordingly. Unhealthy foods like too much oil, carbohydrates, sweets, etc. are obviously a no-no. I generally try to maintain my stomach between 60 and 70% full. Warm water in a glass first thing in the morning. At least two dates, and if feasible, an apple, every day. I also drink at least 3 to 4 litres of water each night. Additionally, contrary to some who claim it should be twice, the amount of protein I consume is equivalent to or slightly higher than my body weight. Don’t eat anything post 9 pm.”
Concludes:
He continues, “The foregoing diet must be supported with exercise, and above all, every activity must be performed with full consciousness and while focused on your breath. I want to stress once more that you shouldn’t follow any diet or workout plan blindly. Do it mindfully and with respect for your unique body type. Don’t theoretically copy anyone…Observe your DNA. The relationship between a happy body and mind is reciprocal. If you don’t get any better, something in your regimen must be off. Remember that the goal is inner tranquilly and tranquilly; avoid taking any external supplements at all costs. No one wants to confront the issue of steroid use and availability. There are plenty of natural replacements, but they are readily available and murdering our youth.”
So, this was all about actor Nikkhil Arya giving solid tips about real fitness. Tell us, what are your views on fitness and health amongst the celebs? Drop your comments below. Click here to get daily written updates of your favourite Hindi TV serials.
