"Sé saludable y cuídate, pero sé feliz con las cosas hermosas que te hacen ser tú."

Taking care of yourself is important—there’s no doubt about that. You need to eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep. But there's something deeper here: while you’re looking after your health, don't lose sight of what makes you unique and happy. It’s about balance. It’s about appreciating who you are, not just what you do.

Let’s dig a little deeper. This idea speaks to our modern-day obsession with health and fitness. Everywhere you look, there’s advice on how to eat clean, work out effectively, and optimize your life. It can get overwhelming. But the essence of the quote is a gentle reminder not to let the quest for physical well-being overshadow your individuality and joy. Your quirks, hobbies, and passions—these are the beautiful things that make you, you.

Think about someone who spends hours at the gym every day, meticulously counting calories and monitoring every bite they take. They might be in perfect physical shape, but if they’re constantly stressed about maintaining this regime, are they truly happy? Compare this to someone who enjoys a weekly yoga class and loves baking intricate cakes on the weekends. They’re healthy and active, but they also make time for the things they love. Their life is not just about maintaining a certain physical state but also about embracing and celebrating their unique joys.

Here’s a practical example. Imagine you love painting. You’re not a professional, but it’s something that lights you up. You could spend hours lost in colors and canvases. Now, suppose you’ve decided to get healthier. You start running every morning and meal prepping to ensure your diet is spot on. That’s fantastic! But if you start skipping your painting sessions because they don’t fit into your new health regime, you might begin to feel a bit hollow despite your physical gains.

So, how do you strike that balance? Start by setting realistic goals for your health without making them your only focus. Incorporate what you love into your routine. Love dancing but don’t see it as ‘exercise’? Think again. Dance your heart out a few times a week. Enjoy baking? Try out healthier recipes, but don’t stress over every ingredient. The key is to keep what makes you happy in your life while also nurturing your body.

Let’s put this into a relatable story. Picture Sarah. She’s a marketing manager who’s decided it’s time to get fit. Sarah dives into it—morning runs, green smoothies, the whole nine yards. But she also loves reading mystery novels and playing the piano. Initially, she struggles. Her new regimen eats up all her time. She feels great physically but misses her books and music. Realizing this, Sarah adjusts. She starts going for runs during lunch breaks and dedicates her evenings to her books and piano keys. She’s healthy, sure, but she’s also happier. She’s found a way to take care of herself without losing herself.

The takeaway? Look after your health, but don’t become a stranger to your own life. The things that make you smile, laugh, and feel fulfilled—those are crucial. They’re not just hobbies or pastimes; they’re part of who you are. Embrace them. Celebrate them. Balance is about more than just physical well-being; it’s about a happy, whole you.