At 70 years old, Anand Mahindra, the charismatic Chairman of the Mahindra Group, defies conventional notions of aging, exhibiting a remarkable level of vitality and mental sharpness. Far from slowing down, Mahindra maintains an energetic presence, attributing his enduring strength and composure to a meticulously balanced fitness and wellness routine. His approach serves as an inspiring blueprint for healthy aging, emphasizing consistency, variety, and a profound commitment to both physical and mental well-being.
The Pillars of Physical Fitness
Mahindra’s physical regimen is characterized by a “rotating fitness schedule” that strategically combines different types of exercises to ensure comprehensive benefits while minimizing strain. He often shares insights into his health regimen, highlighting the importance of this varied approach.
Cardio for Cardiovascular Health
For cardiovascular fitness, Mahindra opts for low-impact activities that are gentle on the joints but effective in strengthening the heart and lungs. His preferred cardio exercises include swimming and elliptical training. Experts endorse such choices, recommending three to five cardio sessions per week to maintain heart health and enhance endurance, particularly for older adults. These activities boost heart rate, improve stamina, and contribute to overall physical health without excessive impact.
Strength Training for Longevity
When many might consider easing off, Mahindra incorporates weight training into his routine. He views resistance training not as vanity, but as a critical component for longevity. Strength exercises are crucial for combating age-related muscle and bone loss, helping older adults maintain independence, sharpen focus, and keep bones strong. Fitness coaches confirm that lifting weights twice a week can significantly fight frailty and slow physical decline.
Yoga for Flexibility and Balance
Flexibility and balance are cornerstones of Mahindra’s physical health, with yoga playing a significant role. He considers his yoga mat his “secret boardroom,” emphasizing the importance of both mental and physical flexibility in his life and leadership. Yoga and stretching practices help sustain balance, posture, and agility, which naturally decline with age. These slow, mindful movements, combined with deep breathing, offer both physical and emotional benefits, promoting calmness and body awareness.
Cultivating Mental and Emotional Well-being
Beyond physical exercise, Anand Mahindra places a strong emphasis on mental wellness, recognizing its direct impact on clarity, resilience, and overall leadership effectiveness.
The Power of Daily Meditation
Perhaps the “most important” part of his daily health routine is his 20-minute morning meditation practice. Mahindra uses this time to reset his system, clear mental clutter, and reduce stress, allowing him to begin each day with focus and positivity. Neuroscientists agree that regular meditation can reduce cortisol levels and enhance decision-making clarity. This consistent habit is a powerful tool for fostering inner balance, emotional stability, and even strengthening the immune system.
Mindful Eating and Lifestyle Choices
While specific details about his diet are less frequently highlighted than his exercise and meditation, Mahindra champions balanced nutrition and mindful food choices. He has been involved in initiatives promoting healthier eating patterns, suggesting small dietary changes for long-term well-being, such as reducing cooking oil consumption. He believes that what fuels the body directly impacts mental acuity and ensures his body is well-equipped for the demands of leadership. In the past, he has also mentioned finding a balance in his morning meals, having considered switching from oatmeal to idlis based on nutritional studies.
Nurturing Social Connections and Positivity
Mahindra’s wellness routine also encompasses emotional stability, which he nurtures by prioritizing relationships and surrounding himself with positive influences. Engaging in meaningful conversations and spending quality time with family and friends provide essential emotional support. His active participation in philanthropic activities further feeds his soul, contributing to his overall happiness and satisfaction by making a difference in others’ lives.
A Blueprint for Active Aging
Anand Mahindra’s comprehensive approach to fitness is a testament to the idea that age is merely a number when disciplined choices are consistently made. His “routine revolution” eschews fad diets and biohacks in favor of simplicity and consistency, a strategy experts refer to as “habit stacking” for long-term momentum. By blending a diverse physical routine with a steadfast commitment to mental clarity through meditation, Mahindra provides a powerful example of how to stay strong in body and mind, radiating positivity and vitality well into his seventies.
