I was having a conversation recently with a friend about whether we are born happy or acquire the skill. We agreed that it could work both ways. Then, the subject regarding exercise came up and how hard it is for people to begin a fitness program. She said she never liked to exercise herself, but decided to take up walking, to relieve stress. She also mentioned that it has made a difference in her attitude. Is she happier? It’s hard to say. However, she looks forward to taking her walks, because she knows there are inherent benefits for her.
Last month Associate Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, was in the news. Some pundits have been urging the 81-year-old Justice to step down. Needless to say that she is not surprised by the requests; however, she has no immediate plans to leave. Justice Ginsburg says: “I do not know that once I feel I am slipping, I will not stay here because it is a hard job.” So she stays in tip top shape and positive (surviving two rounds of cancer and the loss of her husband in 2010) by paying attention to her health, working out regularly with a personal trainer and has not lost bone density for the last few years. Who wouldn’t be proud of that?
Having an optimistic outlook as we age may not only be related to mood, it may also be reflected in our physical well-being, according to the Canadian Medical Association Journal (2014;doi:10.1503/cmaj.131155).
So the message seems clear. Open your calendar, make an appointment with yourself to take a walk, join a dance class, yoga, tai chi or whatever form of exercise you have been curious about. You’ll be more likely to exercise if you focus on “how” instead of “why”.
Give YOURSELF a gift to be inspired and make exercise an integral part of your life. Time will tell if it makes you happier. Join me for a phone consultation or an in-person assessment to see how you can start a safe, and fun fitness program. You’ll find more information at www.LoriMichielFitness.com. You may also email us or call us at 818-620-1442.