National Doctor’s Day 2025: When we fall sick, the first thing we do is rush to a doctor. They check us and give us advice on how to stay healthy. But have you ever wondered what doctors do when they need to stay healthy?
On National Doctor’s Day 2025, we turn the tables and ask the experts how they look after their own physical and mental well-being. It turns out, they don’t rely on magic pills or complicated hacks but instead, they follow simple, consistent habits that many of us often ignore.
“Being a doctor doesn’t mean we don’t face health problems,” says Dr. T. S. Kler, Chairman, HOD at BLK-Max Heart and Vascular Institute. “But we do understand them better. And that means we must take care of ourselves too.”
Here are 10 things doctors do to care for their own bodies and minds to keep their health in check.
1. They get regular health check-ups
“Most people visit the doctor only when something goes wrong. But prevention is far better than cure,” says Dr. Kler. “I get regular blood tests, heart check-ups, and even routine dental exams. Early detection gives you a better chance at staying healthy,” he further adds.
Dr. Astik Joshi, a psychiatrist at Fortis Hospital, agrees. “Routine physical and mental health check-ups help us catch problems early and intervene before they escalate.”
2. They stick to a healthy daily routine
Doctors understand that a structured routine promotes balance. “Having a consistent daily rhythm improves physical and mental well-being,” says Dr. Joshi. “It also reduces decision fatigue and stress.”
3. They have healthy coping mechanisms
Stress is inevitable, even for doctors. But how they manage it makes all the difference. “I make time for walks, meditation, or screen-free breaks every day,” says Dr. Kler. “It helps me stay grounded and mentally calm.”
Dr. Joshi adds, “Rather than unhealthy distractions, I tend to use appropriate coping strategies like mindfulness, exercise, or meaningful hobbies.”
4. They prioritise sleep
“I sleep 6–7 hours daily and avoid screens before bedtime,” says Dr. Kler. “Good sleep keeps your heart and brain sharp.”
5. They manage time effectively
“Doctors learn to manage time well, not just to balance surgeries and appointments, but also family, meals, exercise, and rest,” says Dr. Joshi. “That discipline is key to long-term health.”
6. They eat thoughtfully
Even in high-pressure hospital environments, doctors make healthy food choices. “I never skip breakfast, carry food from home, drink water regularly, and try to avoid junk,” says Dr. Kler. “What you eat fuels how you perform.”
7. They move regularly
“I may not get time for long workouts, but I walk while on phone calls, take the stairs, and stretch during breaks,” Dr. Kler shares. “These little actions keep my body active and reduce stiffness.”
8. They limit screen time
Dr. Kler carves out 60 minutes daily to disconnect. “No screens. Just fresh air, walking, or meditation. It helps me reset mentally.”
9. They take mental health seriously
“Doctors are not superheroes, we face burnout too,” says Dr. Joshi. “The key difference is, we’re not afraid to talk about it, seek support, or even therapy when needed,” he adds.
10. They practice what they preach
“We give health advice daily. The least we can do is follow it ourselves,” says Dr. Kler.
Doctors aren’t perfect, but they understand one vital truth: your health is your most valuable asset. So it’s time to take notes from their daily healthy lifestyle habits and adopt them to live a better life.
