Dr. Zorba Paster, known for his engaging columns on health and wellness, shares a poignant holiday reflection that ties the spirit of the season to personal and communal well-being. He writes, ‘I love writing holiday columns. It might seem like a bit of a detour from health and wellness issues, but not really. How we live our life in full, holidays included, can’t be excluded from wellness. It is, in fact, a critical part of being healthy.’
Paster’s current experience in the Himalayas, specifically in Dharamsala, where he revisited a project aimed at reducing tuberculosis among Tibetan children, serves as a backdrop for his insights. The Zero TB in Tibetan Children project has achieved remarkable success, decreasing TB prevalence in Tibetan schools, monasteries, and nunneries by 87%, showcasing the impact community-driven health initiatives can have.
‘Projects such as these enrich me, too,’ says Paster. ‘They make me feel good; they reduce my stress when I have it, because when I think about the project, it makes me feel good. It’s a win-win when you do something for others.’
During his trip, Paster attended a teaching by the Dalai Lama. ‘At 90 years old, he’s not as physically robust as he used to be, but his mind is sharp and his message is clear: When you do something for others, you do something for yourself. Acts of compassion enrich others and enrich yourself.’
Reflecting on the essence of the holidays, Paster emphasizes the importance of compassion and giving. Instead of focusing on material gifts, he encourages readers to consider how their actions can positively impact others. He mentions, ‘As I sat there, she said something to me, whispered in my ear: Do more!’
As the holiday season approaches, Dr. Paster urges everyone to find ways to give back and enrich their communities. ‘If you want to have a wonderful holiday, enrich it with thoughts of how you will do more for others because it will do more for you,’ he concludes. ‘Stay well. And Season’s Greetings!’
This column provides general health information. Always consult your personal health care provider about concerns. No ongoing relationship of any sort is implied or offered by Dr. Paster to people submitting questions. Any opinions expressed by Dr. Paster in his columns are personal and are not meant to represent or reflect the views of SSM Health.’
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