A recent visit with an elderly relative led me to think about how the choices we make in our younger years play out when we’re older. In this case, a lack of exercise and general activity resulted in a need for physical therapy and a walker this summer. Eating poorly contributed to a loss of strength and some mental confusion. Although my relative really wanted to stay in her home, she couldn’t. Her house was not suitable for aging in place. Also, her small town did not have the level of visiting care services that she needed.
Read MoreHere’s a nice discussion from the Crestone College of Structural Integration by Buddy Frank. On a related note, one of my instructors when I learned SI, David Davis, now teaches for Crestone.
Read MoreIn previous posts, I’ve mentioned that both yoga and Pilates are useful practices in conjunction with receiving the Rolf Method of Structural Integration. However, to experience thebenefits of either yoga or Pilates, one has to actually do the practice. Despite knowing that, on Saturday morning I was trying to decide whether going to yoga class would improve my day. I ended up going, had a good class and (not surprisingly) felt much better afterwards both physically and mentally.
Read MoreWhen book club decided to read Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg, I was not that excited. However, I have actually found the book to be very interesting. She discusses research about workplace and home issues that affect everyone, especially women. She has simple and effective suggestions to change old patterns of behavior that hold us back. I would say the advice could apply not only to women but to introverts of both genders.
Read MoreA poem by Rainer Maria Rilke
Read MoreI have heard more and more about strength training lately. While there seems to be no end of new information about the best type of and way to exercise, strength training is something to consider adding to your routine. New studies show it can benefit health in surprising ways. Along with an increase in strength, it can help reduce pain, improve both flexibility and balance and improve sleep.
Read MoreI have seen more articles lately about the difference between “good” stress and “bad” stress. My initial question was how is stress ever good? It turns out that short-term stress, when coupled with sufficient periods of rest, can help us adapt to changes, learn new tasks, be more aware, and boost the immune system.
Read MoreIn an effort to increase my vegetable intake (and limit middle-age spread), I decided to incorporate green smoothies into my eating plan. However, many recipes were something like: 6 pieces of fruit and one leaf of kale. That is not enough veggies for me. Here is my current recipe. I upgraded my blender to a more powerful one so that the drink actually is smooth and not crunchy.
Read MoreDo you spend a lot of time driving or using a computer, tablet or smartphone? If so, you may be familiar with a syndrome called tech neck or forward head posture. Reaching your head forward or bending your neck forward deeply can place a lot of strain on your muscles and joints.
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