theconnectionsnj.com SENIOR LIVING PAGE 52 As I write this, I think of my now college-aged grandson who, in his diapers, would listen to this song from the movie, Madagascar. His little body would, yes, move it, move it, move it, and the smile on his tiny face said it all…movement is a blessing! Why is it that at a certain age, we fear movement, think it will exhaust us, and not listen to what our body needs? It needs to move, it truly needs to feel the exhilaration of getting oxygen into our cells and organs. Perhaps as a result of the physical generation that felt nothing was too much to do…including triathlons and ultra-marathons, there is a perception that if you can’t do it all, you can’t do any of it. In reality, just setting a portion of the day aside for movement is a great start for all of us. As a former runner, I can testify that walking is a great alternative. As a former aerobics instructor, I can testify that 15 minutes of stretching and lifts are equally as healthy. And as a former believer that nothing was ever enough, I can testify that it is less about how much we do, than how often and consistent we are. The wonderful part of a movement is that it can be social, as well as healthy and beneficial. Many senior communities offer a myriad of classes designed for the age group, such as aerobics, strengthening, balancing, as well as a combination of all of these. The beauty is that while listening to music, bonding with friends, watching each other gain ability, and perhaps a quick conversation after class, the time flies while the benefits last. If you are someone who needs a little additional coaxing, moving burns calories (think a yummy dessert if possible) and energizes in ways never thought possible. I am reminded that when we were newlyweds, and my husband, Bruce, would return from hours studying in the law library weary and exhausted, he would change into his workout clothes and go out for a run. It seemed so counterintuitive to me that he would run instead of rest. But when I began to run at 6:00 a.m., I realized that bringing all that oxygen in and getting the blood flowing made me feel more alive and awake than I could have felt if I slept another hour. Of course, I am not suggesting becoming a marathon runner as a senior, if you have not been doing so for years. I am simply suggesting that we are meant to continue to move regardless of our age. We should include working on our strength and balance and we will continue to move it, move it, move it for years to come! Why is it that at a certain age, we fear movement, think it will exhaust us, and not listen to what our body needs? It needs to move, it truly needs to feel the exhilaration of getting oxygen into our cells and organs. By Ellyn Mantell I Like To Move It, Move It, Move It! SENIOR CORNER Our Vibrant Life Plan Community Awaits You! Call us today at 877-758-2115! www.fellowshipseniorliving.org 8000 Fellowship Road Basking Ridge, New Jersey 07920 |
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzA2NDY0