For example, genetics: we get what we are given. I acknowledge the existence of epigenetics, where a gene for a particular condition may be present, but certain environmental or lifestyle factors can activate it. So yes, lifestyle choices may play a role, but so do life circumstances—such as stress and trauma—which can, in turn, trigger these genes to "switch on". Again, these factors are often far beyond our control.
Some recent research (Click here for details) suggests that genetics may play a much larger role in our longevity and overall health than previously thought. Looking after our health through lifestyle choices is still important, but it is equally important to recognise that our genetic make-up is something more significant than once thought.
Keeping active and engaging in cardiovascular exercise is beneficial for most people, and it is something I have always taken to heart (pun intended). However, it may also have exacerbated—or even triggered—a faulty gene in my case, ultimately affecting my heart. This is one of the more complex aspects of my condition and may help explain why we sometimes hear about athletes or marathon runners collapsing during exercise.
During the pandemic, there was a great deal of victim-blaming in the wellness world, with some suggesting that those who became seriously ill were somehow at fault for not taking care of their health. I see these toxic views as downright victim-blaming. I often wonder what those people would say to me. I am far from perfect, but I have lived a reasonably healthy/balanced lifestyle for years: staying very active, avoiding alcohol for the past five years, following a vegan diet for around eight years, and regularly running, practising yoga and weight training. Yet here I am, living with a heart condition and a pacemaker-defibrillator in my chest due to a genetic anomaly which means my heart cells don't repair in the normal way.
In summary, we all have complex genetic make-ups and personal histories that can influence how our genes behave. If you work in the wellness sector and even if you don't, I encourage you to reflect on your attitudes and language. Consider whether you may, even subconsciously, be placing blame on individuals for their health conditions. I'm sure some of the things I have said or have written in the past may have been insensitive in light of a particular condition someone may have...
And it’s not just the wellness and fitness sector. When I was in hospital, someone in a medical role (not a doctor or nurse) asked what I did for a living. When I mentioned that I teach yoga, they responded, “Why are you, of all people, needing an ICD then?” Perhaps I am being overly sensitive, but the implication seemed to be that people who require ICDs have not taken care of themselves. That simply isn’t true. I am part of an online community of people with ICDs, many of whom are deeply engaged in fitness and wellness, and who, just like me, have these devices due to genetic heart conditions. It may have been a casual comment, but it highlights the need for greater awareness and education.
One
final point: many wellness influencers imply that health issues are entirely of
our own making. This can leave people feeling guilty and vulnerable, making
them more likely to purchase whatever supplement, powder, or “miracle cure” is
being promoted. It’s important to approach such claims with a degree of
scepticism. These people are often grifters, snake-oil salesman and should
probably be avoided!
