Fit, naturally

For the noted sitar player Shubhendra Rao, natural workout is his health raga

Playing with his five-year-old son ensures a vigorous workout for Shubhendra

When someone is sitting for a long period in a rigid posture on the floor, it becomes very important that one is mindful of being physically fit. For this, I do not do anything like gym on machines or similar stuff. I go for natural workouts. What is basically needed here is flexibility. Many artistes in this profession have been suffering from spondylitis and weight problems. Before and after a performance, I do a lot of stretching exercises so that my body gets back to the position it should be in. While performing, there is an immense strain on the fingers, arms, shoulders and backbone. To ease the strains, I swim for at least half-an-hour everyday, which fabricates the overall rejuvenation and workout for me.

I have a five-year-old son and he too keeps me fit. One of my fitness secrets is to play with him. There is a forest near our house. So, while walking with him there, running or cycling, a vigorous workout happens on its own. I love sports and consider them natural toning exercises.

I play football and cricket with my son, which revitalises my inner energies. In a way, my child is a matchless exercise instructor for me. I try to keep up with the energy that a child has and this makes me keep myself fit, vibrant and dynamic. Forty-five minutes of brisk walking in the greenery prevents me from gaining weight. Occasionally, I play badminton with my friends as well. Sometimes, when I am in a good routine, I do some breathing exercises.

Pranayam , specially

Kapalbhati, makes me feel radiant and control my nerves. But to be honest, I cannot perform it regularly. I don't do any meditation to concentrate on the complex ragas. To practice and play music is the highest form of meditation for me.

I try to do riyaaz for six hours but if that doesn't happen due to place or time restrictions, I make sure that I put in at least two hours. One should be aware of the side-effects of what sitting continuously in the same posture may entail and if one is alert, one will find one's own path to be fit.