There she goes, there she goes again

“Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical exercise save it and preserve it.” – Plato

There she goes again … writing about why we should all exercise … I can hear it now. Sorry – not sorry!

Believe me I know that the word “exercise” can conjure up thoughts of relentless, repetitive, often difficult movements that are no fun! One analogy I sometimes use is that of our at least twice-daily habit (plus flossing of course!) of brushing our teeth. I don’t know about you, but that is not an activity that I necessarily look forward to but one that is essential to keep my teeth in my mouth and not suffer from gum disease.

I am not going to write a dry column about why you should exercise, how you should exercise, or how often you should exercise. You are all adults and can make that decision on your own.

However, I recently ended, for the summer months, the most recent FlexAbility session which I teach at the Noblesville branch of the Hamilton East Public Library. The members of the class asked me to provide a printout with examples of some of our class movements and suggestions which they can refer to going forward. I hope that you, dear Readers, may also benefit from some of these and incorporate into your own activities.

• Deep breathing! I have mentioned in previous columns the importance, above all else, of this essential habit. Inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth. Inhale for at least four seconds, hold the breath a few seconds, and then exhale for at least eight seconds. If this seems difficult, just practice and you can work up to it. Remember that deep breathing will feed your brain cells with the oxygen they need! (Deep breathing can also help in pain management and stress management.)
• Practice walking “heel to toe” as opposed to placing the ball of the foot down first. This will help you to keep your torso in alignment and not tilting forward, which can affect your balance.
• Keeping your shoulders pulled back, both walking and sitting, is important to help you keep your chin up and your eyes in a forward, not downward position. This will aid you in keeping your balance and coordination moving forward. For middle age and above, you know the importance of balance!
• When standing, be sure to bend slightly at the knees. Do not lock your knees back which we often think gives us better posture but is not the case. The slight bend at the knees along with tilting your pelvis forward will give you better alignment and balance.
• Although we did not do strength training per se in the class, I often encouraged class members to be sure to use their light weights at least two to three times per week in order to keep muscles strong and mobile.

Most importantly, stretch every day and give your body opportunities to truly relax along with your mind – which can be achieved by turning off the phone (for a short while at least!) and your newsfeed of choice. (The Hamilton County Reporter is an exception, of course!). You may be surprised at how much better you feel and function in this oftentimes turbulent world!

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.