Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu has become an advocate for a healthy lifestyle ever since she publicly shared her battle with the autoimmune condition, myositis, more than two years ago. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of one's health.

In an interview with Hindustan Times on World Health Day, Samantha reflected on the motivations that guided her during her illness and how her approach to health has evolved.

Samantha explained that her decision to share her journey wasn't about positioning herself as a celebrity, but as someone who understands the difficulties of living with a health condition.

She recognised that dealing with an illness can often be isolating, which is why she felt it was important to share her experiences with others. She sees herself as someone offering a helping hand, rather than positioning herself as an expert or spokesperson.

For Samantha, the realisation that health issues are among the most significant problems people face came through her own experiences. She described how important it is to regain control of one's own life when dealing with a health condition, encouraging others to be proactive rather than feeling like passive passengers in their own health journey.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle has become second nature for Samantha. She no longer feels the need to indulge in cheat meals or cheat days, and has found that prioritising her health has become an intrinsic part of her life. 

She emphasised that respecting and nurturing the body is key to maintaining good health. According to Samantha, the body will respond positively only when it is treated with respect, stressing that people cannot expect to perform at their best if they don't take care of themselves. While it is important to have ambitious goals, Samantha pointed out that one must also listen to their body, as doing so will allow it to perform optimally.

Samantha also highlighted the importance of mental health, noting that maintaining a routine has been crucial for her well-being. Even on challenging days, she sticks to her daily routine, which helps her push past negative thoughts. Samantha believes that while routines may seem monotonous, they have played a significant role in helping her maintain mental and physical health.

Samantha also spoke about the larger societal issue of rising health concerns, particularly diabetes and obesity. She pointed out that India is currently a leader in diabetes rates and ranks third in obesity levels, which is a cause for concern.

What is Myositis?

Myositis is a condition where the body’s immune system attacks the muscles, leading to inflammation and pain throughout the body. The disease can affect various muscle groups, most commonly those in the arms, shoulders, legs, waist, abdomen, and spine.

In some cases, myositis can also lead to muscle atrophy in the eyes, diaphragm, and esophagus. Despite ongoing research, the exact cause of myositis remains unclear. Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms, with doctors recommending exercises and physical activities to help strengthen the affected muscles.

Myositis is marked by muscle weakness, constant pain, and fatigue. Other symptoms include difficulty sitting, standing, or even holding the head up, making everyday activities challenging for those affected by the condition.