"Quit worrying about your health. It'll go away." - Robert Orben

The Paradox of Letting Go: Why Worrying Less About Health Might Be the Key to Well-Being

In a world obsessed with wellness trends, biohacking, and longevity, the quote "Quit worrying about your health. It'll go away." by humorist Robert Orben offers a refreshing—if not paradoxical—perspective. At first glance, the statement seems dismissive, even reckless. But beneath its sardonic tone lies a deeper truth about the psychological toll of hyper-vigilance around health and how stress may be more detrimental than the ailments we fear.

Modern society is inundated with health advice: eat this superfood, avoid that toxin, track your steps, monitor your sleep, meditate, fast, and optimize every bodily function. While some of these practices are beneficial, the constant barrage of "shoulds" and "musts" can create a state of chronic anxiety. Studies have shown that excessive worry about health, known as health anxiety or hypochondria, can lead to heightened stress levels, which in turn weaken the immune system, disrupt digestion, and even contribute to cardiovascular issues. In other words, worrying too much about health can ironically make us sicker.

Orben’s quip touches on the idea of acceptance and the art of letting go. It’s not a call to abandon all healthy habits but a reminder that obsessiveness can be counterproductive. Research in psychoneuroimmunology supports this: chronic stress releases cortisol, a hormone that, in excess, suppresses immune function. By contrast, a relaxed mindset fosters better digestion, improved sleep, and overall resilience. The mind-body connection is powerful, and sometimes, the healthiest thing we can do is stop fixating on health.

Of course, this isn’t license for negligence. Preventive care, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise remain pillars of well-being. But Orben’s humor highlights a cultural blind spot: the illusion of control. No amount of kale or step counts can guarantee immunity from illness or aging. Learning to embrace uncertainty—to laugh at life’s unpredictability—might just be the ultimate wellness hack.

So, the next time you find yourself spiraling over the latest health scare or fretting about whether you’re doing "enough," consider Orben’s advice. Sometimes, the best way to protect your health is to stop worrying about it—and let it go.