Ways We De-Stress
Read about some of the different ways that members of the Aga Khan Health Board for Canada de-stress!
"I destress by running (or rather, trying to keep up with my younger son, Zayn) when I can."
Munir Boodhwani, Chairman, Aga Khan Health Board Canada
"For me, playing with and being fully present with my kids is the biggest stress reliever!"
Ayaz Kurji, Honorary Secretary,
Aga Khan Health Board Canada
"I love to spend time in nature especially when I’ve had a rough day. There is something calming about being near water or amongst the trees and other wildlife. Even on a cloudy day, nature helps me to “De-Stress!”Salima Shamji, National Director, Chronic Disease Prevention, Aga Khan Health Board for Canada
"Stress for me, is a combination of emotions often based on an unknown. Rather than stress, I trust that nothing is permanent. I often resort to some tasbih during the day, if I have a few minutes. I also find fresh air helps to ground me, provide a calmer affect and a refreshed outlook.
Ginger tea is also a go to for me."
Kahir Lalji, Member, Non-communicable Disease Prevention & Elder Care, Aga Khan Health Board for Canada
"A few daily practices that help me buffer stress - grounding myself in my faith, spending time with loved ones, running (outdoors is my favorite!), and writing or creating art."
Rifat Khimani, Deputy, Non-communicable Disease Prevention, Aga Khan Health Board for Canada
"To de-stress, I listen to music, particularly on vinyl records and I play on my bass guitar. I find music to be relaxing and comforting. Playing my guitar and concentrating on the notes and on the song is a great distraction from stresses! Plus I get to make lots of noise when I’m practicing."
Alnoor Suleman, Aga Khan Health Board, British Columbia
"As a working mom with a busy household and young kids, life can definitely get stressful. I find taking the time to jog or walk in nature early in the morning while it's still quiet outside and having the sun shine on my face brings me to another level of calmness. Finding those nice trails and making sure I take the time for myself to de-stress allows me to be a happier, healthier and more productive person."
Naila Lalani, Aga Khan Health Board, Edmonton
Walking has been a great stress reliever for me, especially as I started to be more intentional with it during the pandemic. Walking gives me time to think, unplug and get some fresh air. I also love to go on walks with friends and family, which gives me the chance to catch up with others, all while maintaining my physical health. Overall, walking can be a great way to clear your head, re-connect with your body and friends too!
Saara Manji, Aga Khan Health Board, Ottawa
“I like to de-stress in several different ways depending on the levels of stress I am feeling at a particular time. My go to activities to relieve stress are playing soccer, hitting the gym for at least a couple of hours a day and when the weather is great to be outdoors then long walks, runs and bike rides along the River Valley trails or in nature.”
Alnoor Hasham, Digital Media Associate, Chronic Disease Prevention, Aga Khan Health Board for Canada
"I de-stress by taking a brisk walk; even if I only have 10 minutes, this helps me regain focus on what's most important."
Shazia Allibhai, Project Manager, Chronic Disease Prevention, Aga Khan Health Board for Canada