‘Indians can learn this from Americans’: Content creator’s New York holiday observation sparks debate online
For many people, a holiday is all about slowing down, eating their favourite food, and taking a break from routine. But an Instagram creator has put the spotlight on a different way of spending a day off. While travelling in New York, she noticed something that made her reflect on holiday habits back home. Her observation has since sparked a wider conversation online, with people sharing different opinions on fitness, lifestyle, and everyday routines.
What she noticed in New York
Content creator Palak Wahi shared a video from Lake Placid, New York, where she observed that many people had chosen to spend their holiday outdoors.She says, “I’m in this little town called Lake Placid in New York,” before displaying the text “Indians can learn this from Americans.”Explaining her observation, she says, “When there is a holiday in India, we usually have chole bhature, pav bhaji, and other indulgent breakfasts. What I am seeing here is almost the opposite. People are out here running, swimming, cycling, and hiking. I do not think there is anything wrong with enjoying yourself or waking up at a comfortable hour, but it is very interesting to see that movement has become a routine in everyone’s life here. That is why they are able to make time for it in the morning before they go about the rest of the day.”She also encouraged people to make time for physical activity, even on holidays.“We as Indians can learn a little from that. I already see it happening when my friends plan their long runs on a holiday. Maybe the next time you are on a holiday, try taking out 20 minutes for movement and see how that makes you feel.”
Why she believes consistency matters
In the caption, Palak said movement becomes easier when it is treated as a regular part of daily life instead of something reserved for free time. She also said starting with small and achievable goals helps build a lasting habit.She wrote, “Movement is now a routine. It is part of your lifestyle. Just like you wake up, brush your teeth, and take a bath every day without fail, I hope. Why would you not treat movement the same way? Building a habit takes time, and what always works for me is committing to a smaller duration and a smaller goal, something that feels achievable. Twenty minutes and a walk? Sure. Fifteen minutes of stretching at home? Yes! Tell me if you do this too, or what works for you to get daily movement in, especially on holidays!”
Viewers shared mixed reactions
Many Instagram users agreed with her message.One user wrote, “This is so true. Love this video, Palak.”Another commented, “Cannot agree more!”A third said, “Learning from my American friend.”Another added, “Love taking out time for health during a vacation.”Others, however, felt the comparison between the two countries was not straightforward.One person wrote, “The weather is a big challenge in India.”Another commented, “Some of them are also preparing for the upcoming Ironman in Lake Placid. I agree with you. Movement is a lifestyle here, from kids to the elderly. So inspiring.”Another user highlighted infrastructure issues, writing, “We need more open spaces in India. I stay in Mumbai and do not have accessible parks where I can go for a run.”Not everyone agreed with the comparison. One comment read, “That might be true, but Little Rock, Arkansas, happens to be the world’s fattest city, with an obesity rate of more than 40 percent.”Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly shared social media content. The views expressed are those of the creator and commenters and do not necessarily reflect those of this publication. Thumb image: Instagram/@povpalak
