“If a big wind comes a tree must bend or be lifted up by its roots.” – Jeff Chandler as Cochise in the 1950 movie Broken Arrow
I often enjoy contemplating the wisdom of the Native Americans, those who had the right to claim this land as their own for centuries.
Although my heritage is only 1/16 based on my Native American DNA, I believe that their relationship with nature provided them with some very appropriate analogies for our spiritual and physical health.
This column does not usually address spiritual matters, so in keeping with that norm I will use the quote above to address our physical health and fitness.
Most of us are blessed with relatively good health at least through our early adulthood. The “big wind” – or even a medium-sized wind – can come at any time. This wind may be in the form of a very serious diagnosis, a chronic illness that, while not serious, could be somewhat debilitating, an accident, or just the onset of compromised hearing, sight, or other age-related issues.
How we relate to, and contend with, these issues will make a difference in our quality of life. Long-time friends from my youth and this writer are very diverse in the way that we have faced life and health challenges and whether these strong winds have bent us or lifted us up by the roots. We all know what happens when a tree is torn up by its roots … it does not thrive and the outcome is not favorable. Working with our health challenges to achieve the best we can be at this or any age is quite doable for most of us. Daily movement, good nutrition, and a positive attitude go a long way.
Someone told me years ago that I should display a framed photo of myself from a time in my youth in which I felt really vibrant, healthy, and enjoying life the most. Maybe you were 10, 12, 18 – your choice. You are still that person (though hopefully maybe a little wiser!) and there is no reason why you cannot continue to thrive and feel good about your life.
If you can’t run, maybe you can walk or ride a bicycle. If walking is difficult, make sure you are including some form of stretching and movement daily. Get that guitar or trumpet out of the closet and have some fun. (I am still twirling my baton!) Watch an old movie that you enjoyed as a child. Have you always wished to write about a subject you enjoy and publish? I did it and you can too! Substitute teaching can keep you connected to young people who may one day be working in public service and making decisions which hopefully make our world a better place. Contact a childhood friend and laugh about things you used to do – even if you got into trouble with the parents once in a while!
Don’t ever give up on self-care, no matter your age or circumstances. Bend when that big wind comes up, but don’t let it lift you up by the roots!
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.