Friday, May 6, 2011

Don’t Just Stand There; Get Moving

Exercise and temperance can preserve something of our early strength even in old age.  -Cicero (106 BC-43 BC) Roman orator and statesman 

In the midst of all the bad trends and unhealthy eating habits I observe there are a number of bright spots.  For example, I am finding many people who are getting serious about taking back control of their health.  They are throwing away their cigarettes, giving up soft drinks, cutting back on sweets and junk food, and developing exercise routines.  All of these will make not just a difference, but a profound difference.  Two weeks into an exercise program and you will feel like a new person with a fresh and exciting outlook – one which you have probably never before experienced.  Yes, it will be difficult, yet anything worth having is going to require serious effort.  Give exercise a try, for the rewards are well worth it. 

Unfortunately, our society is fostering lifestyles of inactivity.  Everyone needs a little down time, yet countless people think of their down time as sitting in front of a computer or staring at the TV.  This isn’t down time folks; this is more often than not a waste of time.  We are better off to seek to limit the amount of time we spend in front of the TV and computer and instead seek a more active and productive lifestyle.  Turn off the TV and open a book.  Walk away from the computer and go for a brisk walk in the park.  How about a little yard work?  Plant a garden or grow some flowers.  Anything we can do which gets us out of the house and engaging in physical exercise is a step in the right direction. 

I just had a conversation with someone and she was telling me about an exercise program in which she has become involved.  Four or five times a week she goes to the gym and engages in an exercise routine.  As I have stated before, you can exercise at home, however if going to a gym works for you, and then by all means pursue this.  This person was telling me how she exercises with a friend and they encourage each other and hold one another accountable.  Again, this is a great strategy for getting in shape. 

The question is, what are you waiting for?  The time is now and today is the day.  Start off easy; try doing basic calisthenics for 20-30 minutes a day.  From there you can vary your routine and add to it.  As with any new exercise regimen, be sure to check with your doctor first.   

It’s your life, my friend, and you must be the one to make positive changes and seek a brighter outlook.  No one else can accomplish this for you. Get going and get busy.  Brighter days are coming. 

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