The COVID-19 pandemic offset the traditional notions of what young people consider fulfilling in life. Through various lockdowns across the globe, young people have had to reassess many of their core beliefs on the purpose of life, from health and career to social status and family. However, through crisis, hope always emerges. Young people are beginning to say no to things that no longer serve to grow or enhance their happiness in all aspects of life.
Healthcare determinants play a critical role in health outcomes and quality of life in a community. Therefore, self-care, good nutrition, clean water, good sanitation, good mental health, and timely and appropriate healthcare seeking, are important for well-being and fulfilment. In addition, health systems must be redesigned to be responsive to the needs of specific populations. From an individual perspective, improved awareness, availability and agency of choices are key for a healthier lifestyle.
As life expectancy increases, it's important to ensure that we design our cities and built environment so that they are inclusive and age-friendly. Our current design excludes marginalized communities, for example, the urban poor, individuals living with disabilities and older persons. This limits their accessibility and participation in fostering connections, convenience, and safety.
Exercise is the best way to increase life expectancy. If you exercise in nature that is a bonus because you will get more oxygen into your body when you are outdoors. Just as cars need gas to fuel up, humans need exercise to energize and keep going. Exercise is also a free combination drug that has all the good stuff; it releases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, which are known to relieve pain, increase motivation, and make you happier, respectively. Get a daily dose of 20 minutes and find your way to a long-fulfilled life!