KAIAVA Bainivalu loves to live a simple, healthy life.
This is why at 66 years of age, he can still attend to his farming chores and provide everything his family needs.
This newspaper caught up with this outspoken man on a trip to Ra a week ago and he was willing to share his experience and advice for many Fijians.
While labelling alcohol, kava and smoke as substances of abuse to the body, Kaiava reiterated the need to be very conscious of our intake as he believes it determines the longevity of our lives on earth.
“Ever since my young days, I never smoke or drink grog,” Kaiava proudly said.
“It is never good for our health and I always share this with every person I meet because I am someone who can testify to this. I believe I am still alive and well today because I respect my body.
“I also love to sleep at the right time because sleeping keeps the body healthy and ready for the next day of work.”
Kaiava tends to his farm daily ensuring the harvests are ready early in the morning before his wife takes them to the Rakiraki market to sell.
He would never allow his wife to go to the farm because she was responsible only for selling their harvest and earn money for the family.
And while this has been a daily routine for the Ra couple, they always ensure they also attend to village gatherings and whatever is required of them by the church or the vanua.
Kaiava believes that family comes first before everything else, hence, maintaining balance between family, church and the vanua is a must for him.
He also begins his day with a lovely breakfast and eating whatever is harvested from his farm especially pawpaws and bananas.
He also believes that it is not healthy to consume too much meat because it is not healthy for the body.
“Whatever you consume, make sure to take them in moderate amounts. Think of your body and always maintain a healthy life,” Kaiava added.
