“Let all your thinks be thanks.” – W.H. Auden, American poet
Please allow me to begin this week’s column with a thank you. I thank you for reading my column and especially thank you for reading the Hamilton County Reporter, the most comprehensive local news source in Hamilton County.
Words are important to me; I cherish them. So – when I make that statement regarding the local news please be assured that I do not use those words lightly. And do yourself a huge favor by reading the always-enlightening and often-entertaining fellow Word Warriors – Amy, Amy, and Jan!
I am inspired to write about those two precious words – thank you – by a reader who said those words to me just the other day. I am pleased to say that other readers have also thanked me for my health and fitness column and suggestions over the past few years as well. However, this reader not only thanked me for writing my column but also said this to me: “I copy each column and post it on my refrigerator after reading it to help me focus on my own health.”
Wow. Those words were both touching and energizing. (And K. if you are reading this you know I just quoted you!) And just today a woman in the class I teach said to me, “You have really helped me. I am so glad I met you.” Thank you, T., your words made my day.
I am humbled that publisher Stu Clampitt gives me space to share my experience, knowledge, and suggestions to Hamilton County Reporter readers. Obviously not every column will speak to every person. There is no “one size fits all” in health and fitness plans and goals. Therefore, my objective in reaching out to Reporter readers is not to diagnose, prescribe, or even provide specific dietary or fitness plans. My objective is to find common ground on issues which relate to our health and well-being.
My dual career paths have been focused on non-profit leadership as well as fitness. Though now retired from my management career, I find it both important and rewarding for me to work with those who wish to stay viable and healthy especially in their maturing years; I like to say I am “rewired!” I am certified in several fitness disciplines, including as a yoga instructor as well as balance and strength training, along with certification in nutrition counseling. I am not a licensed practitioner in the health care field. Please make sure that you determine the accreditations of anyone you follow for health advice.
If you would like to join me in my FlexAbility class resuming on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 9:30 a.m. at the Noblesville branch of the Hamilton East Public Library, I would enjoy meeting you. This class is suitable for most any age group and gender. If you had recent surgery or are under the care of a physician for a chronic or acute ailment please seek their advice before beginning any fitness program. This is not a yoga class, although we do use some yoga movements in our routine. There is no charge for the class but please register on the library website at hamiltoneastpl.com so that the room can be set up accordingly.
Back to “thank you” – two words which are so meaningful but often said so casually. When you receive these words, ponder them and relish them. When you say these words, know that you can make a profound impact on the person who hears them. Thank you, Gracias, Merci, Danke, Arigato, Toda!
Dear Readers, as the Scots say…
“Tapadh leat”
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.