By Elisa Juarez
Is anyone besides me feeling the weight of the world these days? It's hard to avoid the barrage of news delivered through television, internet, and social media which is just too much to digest and process. The outer world circumstances are layered over our own personal challenges and struggles. It is overwhelming and exhausting at times, which is why, as Anne Lamott says, "...Hope has to do pushups out in the parking lot to stay pumped - and it does” (Almost Everything). It just takes extra effort and intention to keep our spirits and our energy UP day after day. At least that's how I have been feeling, and I doubt that I'm alone. I have found many ways to create and maintain balance, energy, and wellness, but after multiple nights of little sleep my operating system malfunctions and needs a reboot. Writing, reading, and meditation bolster my mental and spiritual energy, but my overall well-being requires movement! Some afternoons all I want is a NAP, and I may take a short one....but when I get my body moving through physical exercise, that whole operating system gets a refresh. Movement increases blood flow throughout our bodies, including our brains, and that means energy! Exercise releases endorphins in the brain - you've probably heard about those little guys. They are the feel good hormones, so you want them in your court! The latest research shows that vigorous workouts are not even necessary to reap the benefits of exercise. In fact, they say it's better to get your body moving multiple times a day, even for short intervals. That's good news for most of us, right? Get up from your desk or couch periodically and walk around, stretch, do some yoga or other exercise. Whenever you go out, get in some extra steps, take the stairs, or, like my husband, park in the "Back Forty" of every parking lot. Dance, cycle, jog, swim.....do what you enjoy and find what feels good. Just make movement a regular and natural part of every day in whatever way works for you, but DO stretch yourself and get your heart rate up each day. You will notice that you have more energy, think more clearly, sleep better, and just feel better! Last week I wrote about the value of feeling good, which goes way beyond ourselves. These bodies were made to move, and when we are inactive it affects our entire being. Start where you are and be kind and gentle with yourself. At the same time, recognize the fact that your body is an amazing creation, capable of much more than you realize. Each day do a little more, try something new, reach for a better version of you. One step at a time, day by day, you will strengthen your body, sharpen your mind, and invigorate your soul. Health & Happiness, ej