Looking back to see where we’ve been after extraordinary times. Are we heading out the right door?
In the past year, what have you fantasized most about that you couldn’t do during the pandemic? Have you developed taste for different things? Are your relationships stronger, or have you chosen to discard relationships that no longer hold as much meaning? Perhaps both. How are your connections today? Do you feel you’ve grown as a person and made progress?
There is a lot to ponder. When it is quiet, and your mind is not reeling, can you relax? My husband, a senior, who is the wisest person I know says, “just breathe”. It is so hard when you are in the midst of crazy times. I have friends who meditate and find solace in doing so. I am not there and might never be. So instead, I exercise in various ways, which comes as no surprise to anyone that knows me. It is what love and that is why I share my experiences.
During the height of the pandemic, my husband Ralph and I took to the streets. Not to protest, we did that in private, but on our bikes. We’ve both owned bicycles forever and at the suggestion of my assistant, we found a wonderful stretch of land to ride alongside the ocean. We go almost every Sunday to breathe fresh air and feel the ocean breeze permeate our body as it takes hold of our consciousness. I know Ralph loves it and so do I. After the long ride, which has grown from seven miles to 20, we treasure every moment. The only exception is my rear end is sore. I guess it comes from sitting too long. Once a week is more than enough.
Stretching our bodies before and after, staying hydrated and wearing comfortable clothes is part of our routine. Without it, the experience is less than ideal.
Starting a new routine is hard. If you feel tired all the time, figure out why. To make it easier, try introducing one exercise at a time, even if it means waking up earlier than usual to walk among the chirping birds, smelling fresh cut grass or, if you’re lucky, an ocean breeze. That’s what I call progress!
Stretching and self-myofascial release practice can safely help discomfort.
If you would like more information about specific programs to get you started and feeling better about your body, plan to be more active, improve your balance and flexibility and confidence, it can be easy and fun. Contact us. You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram, check out our website at LoriMichielFitness.com for other important fitness information, email us or simply call us at 818-620-1442 for a consultation.