Stay Active for Better Health: Tips from Your Primary Care Doctor in Mountain View

Embracing the rain: no barriers to my run, just raindrops on my lenses.

I wasn’t always into exercise. In high school, I dreaded running laps—I was always the last one to finish (like, reliably last). I gave the swim and tennis teams a shot, but let’s just say... they didn’t exactly beg me to join. Later, I dabbled in badminton—not my strong suit, but I enjoyed it.

What first sparked my love for movement was Indian classical dance—thanks to my mom. The blend of rhythm, emotion, and discipline drew me in and helped me stay consistent with exercise later in life.

Exercise has now become one of my favorite parts of the day—it's my daily dose of therapy, strength, and sanity. I fell in love with it back in medical school and, somehow, through all the chaos, I’ve managed to keep it going ever since. I’m definitely not the fastest runner—usually somewhere near the back—but that’s not why I run. For me it’s about the music pumping through my earbuds, letting go of my emotions, and the joy of feeling my body move and grow stronger with every step. I recently ran in the rain and I mean pouring—three jackets, soaked shoes, foggy glasses—but came back feeling strong, refreshed, and totally energized.

My father, at 84 years old, is truly an inspiration. He demonstrates remarkable vitality by performing Surya Namaskars right at home. It's incredible to witness his dedication and energy as he embraces this practice, showing that age is just a number when it comes to maintaining one's health and well-being.

I was lucky to grow up in an active, inspiring household. Just recently, my dad celebrated his 84th birthday by completing 84 Surya Namaskars (Sun Salutations)! That kind of strength, stamina, and endurance doesn’t just happen—he’s been consistent with exercise for decades. My mom, at 82, still does yoga daily and pulls off poses I can’t even dream of! Watching them has been a powerful reminder that the benefits of movement truly speak for themselves.

One piece of advice my patients hear from me all the time? Exercise! It’s one of the most powerful tools we have—it boosts mood, energy, immunity, and helps prevent chronic disease. It supports longevity, improves quality of life, and it’s free!

At 82 years old, my mom is an inspiring woman who gracefully practices yoga at home. She embodies both strength and serenity, demonstrating that age is just a number when it comes to maintaining physical and mental well-being.

Too many people live sedentary lives, which can lead to weight gain, low energy, and a higher risk of disease. We make time to see doctors, take meds, and get labs when we're sick—but what if we made that same time for movement and prevention?

If people would prioritize their health the way they do when they’re unwell, we could prevent many diseases, reduce the need for medications, and live longer lives. While some conditions are inherited and beyond our control, we can take control of how we care for our bodies every day.

For me, finding time to exercise means waking up 30 minutes earlier. The big advantage of morning workouts? They eliminate excuses. Once the day starts, responsibilities can get in the way, but exercising first thing leaves you feeling strong, refreshed, and accomplished.

Starting a routine can feel overwhelming, but the key is to just begin. Whether it’s swapping a few minutes of screen time for a 10-minute walk or doing jumping jacks, consistency is what makes a difference. As you stick with it, you’ll get stronger and healthier. Exercise doesn’t always mean hitting the gym—try a YouTube workout during your child's nap time, dance around your living room, play sports, or go for a hike. When you find something you enjoy, it becomes sustainable. Explore different activities, and you might be surprised by how much you love moving.

With so many trendy supplements and fad diets out there, the simplest—and one of the most effective—solutions for good health is free: just move, and keep moving.

So, close your laptop, look up, and start moving. Your mind and body will thank you!

Sincerely,

Sapna Rajput, D.O.

Family Medicine Physician, Mountain View

Primary Care Physician, Mountain View

Sports Injury Management, Mountain View