Maybe it's S.A.D.D. (Seasonal Depression due to lack of sunlight)that is making me more aware of those lucky people we all know who seem to be always jetting off to an exciting, warm paradise for some R&R. Or the ones who have vacation homes readily available for the last-minute weekend getaway. It is just human nature to be envious of other people who have things that we are lacking. For others it may be someone's job, height or designer wardrobe that you longingly admire.
But I got to thinking the other day that there is one aspect of life that everyone
has the ability to acquire, no matter what they look like, how much money they make or how they live. And this "thing" will improve the quality of life more than any vacation home or 401k.... it is called "good health by being physically fit".
It doesn't even matter if you can't afford a gym membership. Cardio exercise can be done by putting one foot in front of the other or jumping rope in the yard. Strength training can be done with just body weight (pushups, pullups, lunges, squats) or by lifting heavy objects (all cavemen had were rocks!) Actually this back to basics concept is now a fitness trend with high-priced bootcamps!
But really, isn't it amazing how we all have the potential to be athletic? We may not be Olympic material, but with a commitment to regular exercise can be in the Very Fit category. And even though we may not make the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition, we do have the ability to change our body shape, be lean and toned. Of course proper nutrition plays a huge role in body composition as you can not out-train a poor diet!
I think fitness is a great boost for self-esteem, especially for those who don't feel particularly athletic or co-ordinated. There is always some type of physical activity that you can do successfully for gains in cardiovascular and muscular strength. Seeing and feeling healthy changes in your body can be empowering and have a positive effect in all other areas in your life.
Something to think about while sitting on the sofa watching the Olympics, huh?
No comments:
Post a Comment