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Clarita Bassett

Get a Move On!

According to researchers, incorporating regular physical activity into your daily routine is essential; it's a game-changer for maintaining good physical and mental health and longevity. In addition to eating well, staying active and engaged with life is not just essential; it's a powerful tool for preventing Alzheimer's and dementia. Starting today, challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone, learn new things, and surround yourself with like-minded individuals who approach life with joy and enthusiasm. Start slowly and gradually increase your level of engagement. You will look and feel better, more energized, and more alive in just a few weeks, and you'll be part of a community that brings joy and excitement to your life.

 

The Beach Boys once sang about the importance of maintaining positive vibrations. According to Einstein's famous equation E=mc^2, mass and energy are fundamentally interconnected. In my book "I AM" Imagination, Action, Memorization – The Way to Your Absolute Best, I delve into the concept of positive vibrations and their impact on our actions and mindset. Our energy levels increase exponentially when we engage in physical activity like walking, running, or playing. This positive energy leads to further action, creating a powerful and self-sustaining growth cycle.

I have been dancing all my life. It's not always easy, and sometimes I don't feel like getting up and doing it. However, I push myself to generate the energy to move my body, connect with the music I love, and let it harmoniously guide my movements. Internally and externally, the vibrations ripple through my body, mind, and spirit. This resonance stimulates my muscles to contract, my blood to circulate, and my lungs to take deep breaths, effectively enhancing my overall health and wellness.

So, what can you do right now to engage in regular movement and exercise, learn new skills, and socialize with others?   

Here are 10 tips to get you started:

1.         Get a Smartwatch: OMG.  I had no idea what a gratifying feeling it is to have real-time feedback about my body.  Recently, I began wearing an Apple watch.  My heart rate, how many calories I’ve burned, how long I have been sitting in front of my computer, and reminders to stand and become mindful of how my body responds to my environment are all available instantly just by looking down at my watch.  Awesome! 

2.        Know your baseline:  You must take an assessment of where you are with your health right now before moving on.  On any journey that you decide to take, you must know where you stand and where you want to go.  If you have no idea where you are, how will you navigate your way to your destination?  You must know your metabolic rate, how much sugar and fat you are ingesting with your diet, and how often you move. This knowledge will prepare you and give you the confidence to take on the challenge of improving your health and wellness. 

3.        Once you understand your baseline for metabolism and the importance of physical activity, it's also important to be aware of your mental state. Are you prone to procrastination or impulsiveness? Do you tend to overestimate or underestimate your abilities? Can you organize yourself to make regular exercise an integral part of your life? Understanding what, how, when, where, and why you need to exercise will provide insight into your identity and purpose in life.

4.        Schedule your movement into your daily life:  And yes, I mean every day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.  Go for a walk, sit in a chair, and follow along with my Sit’n’Fit exercise program.  Join a gym, swim, or buy weights to lift, squat, and press while watching the news.

5.        Join a Local Group: Participate in a local club or group that aligns with your interests or hobbies. Whether it's a book club, a hiking group, or a dance class, being around like-minded people can motivate you to stay active and engaged. It’s also a fantastic way to make new friends and expand your social circle.

6.        Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase your targets. For example, begin by aiming to walk 10 minutes a day and slowly increase it to 30 minutes. Setting realistic goals helps you stay committed and can provide a sense of accomplishment, boosting your motivation.

7.        Learn a New Skill: Pick a new hobby or activity that interests you. Whether you learn to cook a new cuisine, try a new sport, or practice a musical instrument, challenging your brain with new skills contributes to your mental well-being and helps prevent cognitive decline.

8.        Volunteer: Volunteering for a cause you care about can be incredibly rewarding. It keeps you physically active and allows you to socialize, meet new people, and contribute positively to your community. Plus, the sense of purpose it provides can significantly enhance your emotional well-being.

9.        Attend Workshops and Seminars: Look for workshops, seminars, or webinars on topics that intrigue you. Many communities offer free or low-cost classes on various subjects, from creative writing to personal finance. These events are great opportunities to learn new things and meet others with similar interests.

10.   Stay Connected: Leverage technology to stay connected with friends and family, especially if distance is an issue. Video calls, social media, and online group activities can help you maintain social connections and feel more engaged with your social network.

If you follow these recommendations, you'll find that your journey to better health, lifelong learning, and enriched social interactions is well within reach. 

By:  Clarita

Clarita Bassett is a professional dancer, wellness coach, author, and entrepreneur.

 

 



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