What if you just want an easy way to exercise? What if you just want to relax, slowdown and not do strenuous workouts? Do you think you can meet your fitness goals doing just that? Well, that depends on our goal and the choice is ours.
I walked for my overall health and I did it consistently to this day
During my 30’s to 50’s, I did not neglect exercise. I joined aerobic classes in gyms, I even bought the VHS of Jane Fonda whose routine I followed at home. It worked!
When I turned 55, my doctor knew that I had a clean bill of health but discouraged me from jogging to prevent foot injury. When I turned 60 and retired I went on a binge, thinking that retirement is freedom, with no constraints, do what you like, life is short, right? I was wrong! Look at me after my excessive indulgence!
When my younger daughter came home for my 70th birthday celebration, she asked how it feels to be 70. I said that I feel the same like when I was 17; except that my ways have matured and goals changed.
By then I was looking for my next big thing. She subtly suggested that I start small, like walking again. I was 165 lbs or more, I can’t be sure. Little did I know then that I started the biggest thing that I could ever do in my life!
With the loving encouragement of my family I resumed walking; 5,000 steps was my initial goal. To boost my enthusiasm my son even bought me a fitbit and Jim urged me to get the best and the latest Nike available. My family is so Nike-ish
My older daughter bought me exercise Tee’s, all the colors available in my size at Uniqlo and even got more from M & S; while my younger daughter started buying me nike shoes every 6 months; and she still does to this day, if I may add.
Walking energizes me, I never feel sluggish and I’m always in a good mood. They say that walking gives life longevity; good for the heart and boost mental strength.
Walking with friends is fun ; I enjoy the laughter and banter! Exactly the socialization I need. I value the friendship and fellowship and I love the occasional breakfasts and birthday celebrations with them.
Walking regulates my blood glucose that my Endocrinologist is happy on my quarterly checkups. She congratulates me.
Walking boosts my creativity, when I walk alone on Sundays and on days that my friends are otherwise preoccupied with their lives; new ideas come to me; more often about how I express my thoughts for my blog or new contents dawn on me.
Mindful meditation has its pluses. It rejuvenates me; I set aside life’s concerns and challenges. I focus on the here-and-now, the trees, the plants and the flowers. I feel the windy days and breezy mornings. When dawn breaks I watch the breathtaking moment of sunrise that never fail to excite me. It gives hope for good things to come.
I know that walking won’t remarkably reduce weight but I’ve proven that walking 10,000 steps consistently everyday paid off. I am 136 lbs now; still a bit on the heavy side but I feel fine.
Today I “bask in the glory” of what I’ve become; lighter now so I don’t overwork my heart. Exercise indeed is the key to a long and joyful life!
Walking it is for me!
