By George Smiley, as told to Chat GPT

As a former spy, I know all too well the toll that stress and danger can take on one’s health. In my line of work, I’ve had to deal with everything from betrayals and infidelities to high-stakes espionage and assassination attempts. But through it all, I’ve managed to maintain my health and sanity, thanks to a few key strategies that I’d like to share with you today.

Walk everywhere – but be vigilant. Walking is a great way to stay in shape and clear your mind, and it’s also a good way to stay aware of your surroundings. As a spy, I’ve always made a point to be alert for potential tails or other threats, and walking gives me the opportunity to observe my environment and spot any potential danger.

Eat well – but enjoy yourself. I’m a member of a private club in London that serves some of the best food in the city, and I make a point to dine there regularly. But I also make sure to balance my indulgences with plenty of healthy, nourishing meals. Eating well is essential for your health and well-being, but it’s also important to enjoy yourself and savor the pleasures of life.

Relax and unwind with a good book. Reading is a great way to relax your mind and escape from the stresses of daily life. When dealing with the stress of my cheating wife Ann, I turned to my love of German poets and literature. By immersing myself in the works of Rilke or Goethe, I was able to find solace and perspective.

Find healthy ways to cope with stress. In my line of work, stress is inevitable. But it’s important to find healthy ways to cope with it, whether that means swimming, meditating, practicing yoga, or simply taking a few deep breaths. When I found out that a close friend and colleague was actually a mole, it was a shock that nearly threw me off balance. But by relying on my inner strength and finding healthy ways to process my emotions, I was able to keep moving forward.

Stay connected with friends and loved ones. The life of a spy can be a lonely one, but it’s important to stay connected with the people who matter most to you. Despite the betrayals and danger that I faced, I never lost touch with my closest friends and allies. This helped me stay grounded and connected, and gave me the emotional support I needed to keep going, no matter what.

I hope these tips are helpful to you, whether you’re a fellow spy or simply someone looking to live a healthier, happier life. Remember, even in the midst of danger and stress, it’s important to take care of yourself and find ways to stay strong and resilient.