A Lithuanian businessman, once at the helm of a billion-euro empire employing 4,000 people, has dramatically altered his lifestyle, retreating to a self-created natural oasis in the Alytus district. , the businessman, identified as T. Barštys, shared details of his transformation during an interview with journalist Edvardas Žičkus.
The interview took place at Balkasuodys, a property steeped in family history, having been inhabited by the Barštys family for five generations. The estate includes the family home of his parents, now occupied by Barštys himself, and a sprawling 60-hectare territory that houses “Royal Horse Resort,” one of the most impressive equestrian centers in Europe.
Today, Barštys’s primary passion lies with horses. “I no longer collect cars – now I exchange them for horses, of which I have 60. By the way, a horse sometimes costs much more than the best car,” he revealed during the televised interview.
Having sold his long-cultivated business empire, Barštys now embraces a life centered around tranquility and wellness. He begins his day at 6:00 AM, swimming, taking long walks in nature, and focusing on a healthier diet. This shift wasn’t merely a lifestyle choice, but a response to a significant health challenge.
As Barštys confided to Žičkus, a cancer diagnosis prompted a profound reevaluation of his life. “Trials are given only to the strongest. I have come to terms with it,” he stated, offering a stoic acceptance of his circumstances.
While the specific type of cancer was not disclosed, the diagnosis clearly served as a catalyst for a fundamental change in priorities. The transition from a high-pressure business environment to a life immersed in nature and focused on personal well-being represents a significant shift in perspective.
The focus on horses appears to be central to this new chapter. The “Royal Horse Resort” suggests a deep investment in equestrian pursuits, potentially offering both a source of enjoyment and a form of physical activity. The statement that horses can exceed the cost of luxury automobiles underscores the extent of this commitment.
The Lithuanian context is also noteworthy. The Grand Duchy of Lithuania, historically a large and influential European state stretching from the Baltic to the Black Sea, has a rich history of empire-building and, as evidenced by research into historical conquests, a long association with horses. While this historical connection isn’t directly stated by Barštys, it provides a cultural backdrop to his current passion.
The businessman’s story resonates with a broader trend of individuals reassessing their lives in the face of health challenges. While the details of his treatment and prognosis remain private, his public acknowledgment of the impact of illness and his subsequent embrace of a more balanced lifestyle offer a powerful message about resilience and the importance of prioritizing well-being.
The emphasis on early rising, swimming, outdoor activity, and a healthier diet aligns with established recommendations for promoting physical and mental health. These lifestyle modifications, while seemingly simple, can have a profound impact on overall quality of life, particularly for individuals navigating a health crisis.
The narrative also touches upon themes of legacy and family. The fact that the estate has been in the Barštys family for five generations suggests a strong connection to the land and a desire to preserve a sense of continuity. This familial link may contribute to the sense of peace and fulfillment that Barštys now experiences.
T. Barštys’s story is one of transformation – a journey from the demands of a large-scale business empire to the serenity of a life centered around nature, family, and personal well-being. His experience serves as a reminder of the importance of adapting to life’s challenges and prioritizing what truly matters.
