The Connections Bridgewater Somerville Edition November 2021 - January 2022

theconnectionsnj.com PAGE 36 SENIOR LIVING Just as it is never too young to move our body, we are never too old to add exercise to our daily health regimen. Of course, it is imperative to check with one’s health care provider, but once clearance is given, moving is the best activ- ity possible. So many imagine that one needs to belong to a gym, have a personal trainer or be part of a sophisticated program, when, walking, a lit- tle weight training and work- ing on balance can add years to our lives. Putting on walking shoes and going for a nice walk out- doors is a wonderful way to start the day, but if the weath- er is an obstacle, setting a tim- er for 20-25 minutes and sim- ply walking around one floor of the house is just as benefi- cial, since we cannot all have a treadmill to use. It is key to make accommodations so we can have consistency with a little cardio activity. Whenever possible, walk outdoors, how- ever, for the added benefit of Vitamin D. Muscles respond well to weight training, and for those who do not have a set of light weights available, it is possible to get a good workout with soup cans. A friend who was a personal trainer told me, many years ago, to start with Camp- bell’s Soups and move on to Progresso when the Camp- bell’s are too light to feel ben- eficial. I remember that any time I am nursing an injury or recovering from surgery. Start with Campbell’s and move on to Progresso! Balance is key for all of us as we age. Nothing is more overwhelming than a fall that results in a bone fracture. Aging bones do not heal as rapidly as younger ones, and many falls result in a stay in a rehabilitation facility. The confidence that comes from knowing one’s balance is “on solid ground” is a gift, which can be assisted by sim- ple balance exercises. Once again, please check with your medical provider, and always stand next to a chair or wall in case of falling but building on our sense of where we are in the universe (our proprio- ception) is invaluable. I think of understanding as a ballet dancer the assist one gets from focusing on a spot on the wall while twirling. Always focusing on that spot brings us right back to our center of balance. Lesson learned! At one point, while recovering from surgery and post-op in- fections, I was in a rehab facil- ity and was surprised that the most challenging part of my recovery was working on my balance. It opened my eyes to the value of standing firmly on my own two feet. If all of this is overwhelm- ing, it is not meant to fright- en seniors. The message is meant to motivate because we can always do something to get our bodies moving. Take a few minutes to think about your goals, establish a plan, execute the plan and begin to enjoy the feeling of energy in your body. It will build upon itself, even if you have never had the interest, thought it impossible to “work out”, or didn’t own a pair of walking shoes. by Ellyn Mantell NEVER TOO LATE TO BEGIN TO EXERCISE! S enior C orner A friend who was a personal trainer told me, many years ago, to start with Campbell’s Soups and move on to Progresso when the Campbell’s are too light to feel beneficial. The confidence that comes from knowing one’s balance is “on solid ground” is a gift, which can be assisted by simple balance exercises. Senior Living At Its Best All the conveniences life offers on a Resort Style Life Plan Community 877-758-2115 ways to live an inspired life. A vibrant destination community, with world class amenities and a state-of-the-art health center. We have been welcoming seniors eager to start the next chapter of their lives, without compromising on the high quality lifestyle you are accustomed to. Fellowship Village offers multiple 5- Star dining options, including our new Indoor/Outdoor Tapas Bar and Lounge. A Cultural Arts Center designed to bring you theater, opera, and various forms of live entertainment, all on a vibrant 72 acre campus where you can Live Your Best Life! And Fellowship offers a full continuum of onsite services to give you the peace of mind you can age in place. Offering an abundance of choices! 8000 Fellowship Road Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 FellowshipSeniorLiving.org