My Archie: The Power of a Holistically Lived Life
A Journey of Resilience and Gratitude
Archie, my 11-year-old beagle, who most of you have known, was more than a pet. He was my companion, teacher, and a boundless source of joy. Despite battling an array of health challenges—including idiopathic epilepsy, spinal abnormalities, an enlarged heart, kidney cysts, and more—Archie’s blood work defied the odds, reflecting the vitality of a young, thriving dog. This wasn’t luck; it was the outcome of unwavering love, proactive care, and disciplined living.
When Archie was diagnosed as a pup, the vets gave him a bleak prognosis— three years. Yet, Archie turned every expectation on its head. He thrived for over a decade, teaching me and everyone he met invaluable lessons along the way. Till his very last day, his blood work remained as robust as that of a 2-3-year-old. My strong boy.
I didn’t have control over his genetics or abnormalities, but I took ownership of everything I could:
1. Nutrition Fuels Resilience
Archie’s diet was a testament to the power of nutrition. Each meal was carefully crafted—high-quality fats, proteins, fibre, and micronutrients adjusted to his age, activity level, and symptoms. Processed food and kibble were off the table. Instead, he thrived on natural, wholesome meals, earning compliments for his shiny coat and healthy skin.
Perfect gut health, evidenced by his enviable “perfect poop,” was no accident. Measured portions twice a day kept him lean, fit, strong, and full of energy.
What we can learn: Your body deserves the best fuel. Treat food as medicine, and it will repay you with resilience, strength, and vitality.
2. Health Thrives on Consistency
Archie’s life revolved around a disciplined routine. From meals to exercise, grooming to rest, everything followed a steady rhythm. This routine evolved with his needs, but the consistency remained—a source of security and happiness. Daily sunlight, exercises, physiotherapy, timely medications, sleep & food, regular baths, and monthly grooming were non-negotiable. Archie was free thanks to his discipline.
What we can learn: Small, consistent habits are the foundation of a healthy life. Build a routine that prioritizes your well-being—it’s the ultimate form of self-care. “You take care of you for me, & I’ll take care of me for you.”
3. Relationships Power Life
Archie’s warmth was magnetic. He had a way of winning over even those afraid of dogs. His trust in people was unshakable, and his happiness radiated to everyone he met, inspiring many to consider adopting a beagle themselves! Before we put Arch to sleep, I had a VERY long list of people who wanted to say their final goodbyes – each relationship was powerful.
What we can learn: Relationships nourish the soul. Invest in building trust and spreading kindness—it enriches your life and the lives of others. Everyone matters. Everyone makes mistakes. Let go. Build that bridge.
4. Be Present. Thrive Now.
Archie lived each moment to the fullest. Whether wagging his tail over a treat or dirty sock; or savouring a quiet cuddle, he embodied the art of living in the now. He never dwelled on the past or feared the future—he simply lived. He did so because he whole-heartedly trusted me – that I would love, spoil, care and provide for him, always. Remember – you too have someone watching over you, always. Don’t be anxious.
What we can learn: Happiness is in the little things happening now. Let go of past regrets and future anxieties to embrace the joy of the present. Pause. Choose to be happy – you deserve it. No matter what.
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5. Health Is Leaps Beyond Wealth or Power
No expense or effort was spared in ensuring Archie’s well-being. While I could enhance his quality of life, I couldn’t stop time or a progression of a disease. The real wealth lay in giving him a consistent life of dignity, love, and joy—not just prolonging it.
What we can learn: Money can’t buy health, and power can’t replace proactive care. Prioritize the quality of your days over their quantity. What good does money, network or power do at the end?
6. Prevention Ensures Vitality
Proactive care was a cornerstone of Archie’s health. Regular vet check-ups, even in the absence of symptoms, allowed us to catch and manage issues early. I cannot emphasize this enough - weight management reduced the need for other treatments and a poor quality of life for Arch.
What we can learn: Prevention is the best care. Be proactive with check-ups, eating clean, daily activity, strength training and mindful living to stay ahead of health challenges – regardless of your genes or historic patterns.
A Life Well-Lived
Because of this holistic approach, Archie defied every prediction, living a full and joyful life. For a dog once expected to survive just three years, reaching 11 was nothing short of a miracle.
As a holistic nutritionist, Archie’s journey has deepened my understanding of the term holistic. It’s no longer just a marketing jargon—it’s a way of life.
A Final Thought
In today’s hustle culture, where the race for quick success leaves little room for self-care or sympathy, Archie’s life holds a mirror to what truly matters.
Ask yourself:
Archie’s legacy is a reminder that the richest life isn’t measured in years or wealth but in health, love, and what you leave with the ones who are left. His life taught me to nurture the things in my control and trust the journey for the rest.
Archie lived fully every day, loved unconditionally, and left behind lessons that can inspire us to be better—for ourselves and for others. I hope his life reminds us that even in grief, there is gratitude for a life well-lived.
To everyone reading this: Start today. Value the simplest treasures: health, connection, and presence.
Heartfelt Thanks,
Ishita Biswas