Term 3_ English_ Part 7 & Part 8

Health and Fitness Maintaining good health and fitness is essential for living a balanced and fulfilling life. Health is not just the absence of illness but a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Fitness, on the other hand, refers to the ability of the body to function effectively in work and leisure activities, to be healthy, and to resist disease.

A major part of being fit is taking care of your muscles. Muscles are responsible for movement and support throughout the body. Strengthening them through regular physical activity, such as weight training or aerobic exercises, helps improve posture, increase energy, and prevent injury. People who train their muscles regularly also tend to have better metabolism and stronger immune systems.

When your body is not well, it often shows symptoms. These can include tiredness, body aches, or more serious signs like a fever, which usually indicates that the body is fighting an infection. Recognizing early symptoms and seeking medical advice is important to prevent complications.

A healthy lifestyle includes a diverse range of habits—not just exercise, but also balanced nutrition, sufficient sleep, stress management, and social interaction. Diversity in your diet ensures you receive all the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals needed for your body to perform its functions effectively

There has been considerable interest in recent years in holistic approaches to health. For example, many unused spaces in cities have been converted into public parks or fitness zones. These areas encourage physical activity and provide access to nature, which can also benefit mental health.

In health and fitness, it’s important to focus on relevant information. With so much advice online, not all of it is scientifically supported. People must learn to identify trusted sources and understand what is truly helpful for their specific needs and goals.

Overall, staying healthy and fit is a long-term commitment that involves body and mind. By paying attention to the signs your body gives, engaging in varied routines, and making informed choices, anyone can improve their quality of life.

The Turning Point For years, Maya had been an ambitious student, always aiming for the top of her class. Her goals were clear—get a scholarship, make her parents proud, and someday become a doctor. But as the pressure increased, she started to feel overwhelmed. Sleepless nights and endless assignments made her feel constantly anxious. The joy she once felt for learning began to disappear. Eventually, Maya was diagnosed with mild depression. At first, she was afraid to tell anyone. She thought admitting her struggle would make her look weak. But her best friend Layla, always loyal and understanding, noticed the changes in her and encouraged her to talk to a counselor. With support, Maya slowly began to recover. She learned to set realistic goals and take breaks without guilt. Volunteering at a local community center became a rewarding part of her routine. Helping children with their homework gave her a sense of purpose beyond grades. One day, Maya gave a short talk at the center about her journey. She was nervous, but the children listened with wide eyes and clapped when she finished. That moment felt significant—not because of applause, but because she realized her story mattered. Now, Maya is enthusiastic again—not just about school, but about life. She still dreams big, but now she knows that asking for help isn't weakness—it's part of the strength that makes us human.