Architects of Our Own Health: We Know What We Fear, Yet We Are Reluctant to Change Our Lifestyle

We want to live longer and healthier lives. Yet we are often unwilling to change the habits that have the greatest long term impact on our health. This paradox is at the heart of the current debate about the health of Czechs.

In the latest issue of Echo, experts explore why it is so difficult for Czechs to turn what they know about a healthy lifestyle into everyday habits. We understand the importance of exercise, quality sleep, a balanced diet and preventive care, yet we often start paying attention to our health only when something goes wrong.

Among those contributing to the discussion is Petr Havlíček, nutrition specialist and lecturer at NEWTON University, who highlights our growing focus on instant gratification. In his view, we are becoming increasingly disconnected from ourselves and losing sight of the true value of our health. Learning to slow down, listen to the signals our bodies send us and think about what genuinely benefits us in the long term can be an important step towards a healthier life.

Petr Havlíček has also recently taken on a new role at NEWTON University as the academic lead for the MSc in Mental Coaching for Helping Professionals. The programme combines coaching approaches, psychological resilience and practical tools for working with people. It is designed for professionals who want to better understand the people they work with, as well as themselves.

Read the full article in the latest issue of Echo.