Take ownership of your health | 2 min read

Dr André Kilian is a Family Physician at Intercare Summerstrand in Port Elizabeth. He is married and has four children and five grandchildren. The most important health tip Dr Kilian share with patients is to take responsibility for their health and to listen to their bodies, and live accordingly.

He keeps physically and mentally fit by running and participating in triathlons which clear his mind and let him see God’s hand in the small things around him.

Your health matters
“Many men think they are indestructible and that the community expects it from them. Regular health checks are necessary to remind men that things might go wrong and become more intentional in making good health choices. Taking responsibility for your health is the key to living better for longer”.

Having ownership over your life, health, and wellbeing by choosing a healthy lifestyle is liberating. Eating a nutritious diet, getting regular exercise, and enough sleep are vital for good health. Talk to your doctor about what diet and activity level are best for you.

Positive work environment
To enjoy one’s work have many health benefits, boost overall wellbeing, and can be positively life-changing. In addition, it can support mental and physical health, give individuals a sense of purpose, improve their self-esteem and self-confidence, and create opportunities to build relationships that help avoid the emotion of loneliness.

Dr Kilian enjoys his job as a healthcare professional, especially working with patients and making a positive difference by guiding them to better health. “At the workplace, it is important not to let your problems and difficulties influence your care and decision making.”

How to manage stress
Stress refers to your body’s reaction to challenges and demands. Stress can be positive or negative, and there are healthy ways to deal with it. Everyone experiences stress, which can be triggered by a range of events, from minor daily hassles to significant changes like a divorce or job loss. The stress response includes physical components such as an elevated heart rate and blood pressure, thoughts and personal beliefs about the stressful event, and emotions, including fear and anger. Although we often think of it as unfavorable, stress can also come from positive changes in your life, like getting a promotion at work or having a new baby.

Stress may be reduced by
• Regular exercise.
• Spending quality time with family and friends.
• Sleeping well, eat healthily, and drink plenty of water.
• Setting realistic goals and expectations.

Dr Kilian reads as a way to relax and strongly promotes it. A study at the University of Sussex found that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%. Reading can relax your body by lowering your heart rate and easing the tension in your muscles.