THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION PAGE 33 NOV 2025-JAN 2026 theconnectionsnj.com 908-658-3800 (voice) | 908-658-4659 (fax) info@fbolawfirm.com For more information, visit our website: www.fbolawfirm.com 4 Essex Avenue, PO Box 259, Bernardsville, NJ 07924 PRACTICE AREAS: Trust, Estates, Guardianships • School Law • Employment We’re Here When You Need Us Most Elizabeth C. Flanagan Managing Partner Rita F. Barone Partner Michelle M. O’Brien Partner Somewhere in this magazine is a SPOT IT & email your answer to info@theconnectionsnj.com Include Name, Town, Phone Number Subject Line: FAKE AD OR Go to theconnectionsnj.com to play ONLINE FAKE AD am always on the lookout for ways to maintain and even push further the physical and mental acuity of the aging society. Yes, we are all aging, but the particular segment of the population on my radar screen is the segment who are vital and strong, recognize the difference in our ability to do everything we used to assume we could, and are laser-focused on maintaining what we have, albeit recognizing our limitations. Certainly, we are not likely to climb the same hill or mountain we climbed over the years with the expectation we will find it less strenuous. It will, most likely, feel more demanding. But if we are to challenge ourselves by doing the climb, packed with water, power bars and sunscreen, (and I applaud that determination), we may find it more arduous than we remembered. Staying in optimum shape, however, does not have to be as daunting. I have discussed puzzles and games, socializing and staying in touch with friends and family. Now, I would like to encourage participation in a few activities that will help your skeletal structure, as well as your mind. Both Pilates and Yoga require control of breathing and strong listening skills. The postures typically entail a few commands, such as breathe in, use your breath to hold a pose; or feet in parallel, knees together, etc. Concentration is required in order to achieve the pose or posture desired, which often grounds us to the task rather than letting our minds jump to the next activity. Light weights are a good accompaniment to most physical activities, for example, chair yoga, stretch classes or Pilates. The goal isn’t necessarily building muscle, although that is always a great reward; it may actually be to prevent the arms from flailing and becoming injured. Some consider light weights to be anything under three pounds, but feel free to go even lighter if these are too heavy. As I write this, my mind is with you on the yoga mat or chair, the Pilates reformer, or at the fitness center. As always, I am reminded of the benefit of the social aspect of these activities. Grabbing a cup of coffee or tea with other participants is a bonus always worth pursuing. The good energy gained from “the workout” continues for the day, and bonding with others may just take you into the rest of the week with a new friend. SENIOR CORNER Pilates, Yoga and Light Weights, Oh Yes! By Ellyn Mantell I
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