Special Live video of the Dalai Lama’s Briefing to Tibetans in Minnesota

Quick translation of the Dalai Lama’s comments on his health made during an audience for Tibetans in the Minneapolis area, September 30, 2015: As some of you may know, for the last 10 years or so I’ve been coming for physical checkups to the Mayo clinic, almost every year. And in India also, I go for checkups every 6 months or so. And that’s why I’m here this time also. The last time in India, they told me that my health was good, and here also, they’ve said that my general health was excellent, with no major ailments whatsoever (applause). Now for the last 2 or 3 years I’ve had some issues with my knees. Recently a German doctor, a specialist, said to me, “you’re not 18, you’re 80,” and that things like this are normal (laughs). And I realize the truth in that diagnosis (laughs). As you age, your physical body deteriorates, so you need to be aware of your health, do checkups, and take care of small issues and symptoms. So I’m very well, and there’s no need for any of you to worry. However the doctors have told me to rest more. And yes, even I can see that after long trips with sustained activities, I do feel more fatigue than I used to. We have curtailed some of the planned trips and activities in the next couple of months. In December though, I’ll be completing some Buddhist teachings that I started last year at Sera monastery, and also participating in a conference with scientists in South India. I intend to enjoy and carry out these events in a relaxed manner.