Time Out for your Health!


Why Is Physical Activity and Taking Time for Yourself Important?

Regular exercise and physical activity are important to the physical and mental health of almost everyone, including older adults. Being physically active can help you continue to do the things you enjoy and stay independent as you age. Regular physical activity over long periods of time can produce long-term health benefits. That’s why health experts say that older adults should be active every day to maintain their health.

In addition, regular exercise and physical activity can reduce the risk of developing some diseases and disabilities that develop as people grow older. In some cases, exercise is an effective treatment for many chronic conditions. For example, studies show that people with arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes benefit from regular exercise. Exercise also helps people with high blood pressure, balance problems, or difficulty walking.

One of the great things about physical activity is that there are so many ways to be active. For example, you can be active in short spurts throughout the day, or you can set aside specific times of the day on specific days of the week to exercise. Many physical activities — such as brisk walking, raking leaves, or taking the stairs whenever you can — are free or low cost and do not require special equipment. You could also check out an exercise video from the library or use the fitness center at a local senior center.

Talk to your therapist about the  many types of exercise and physical activity. They can also give  lots of tips to help you be active in ways that suit your lifestyle, interests, health, and budget, whether you’re just starting out, getting back to exercising after a break, or fit enough to run a 3-mile race or even a marathon! Exercise is for everyone* — people who are healthy and those who live with an ongoing health problem or disability.

*talk to your physical therapist and/or doctor before beginning any new strenuous exercise program.

Giving Thanks

Have you been through something that's made you glad to be alive?  Has someone made a difference in your life? We're all thankful for the usual: our health, our families, the fact that we've seen another year pass. But what are you especially thankful for this year? Taking time to reflect on the things that you are grateful for may be more important that you think.


The mental connection.  Scientists are discovering a bigger connection between our mental and physical health every day. This is likely the biggest factor in preventing illness as well. It includes the messages we send ourselves, and the more negative thoughts we have, the greater chance for those thoughts turning into something that physically attacks the body. A good example of this is when people break out in hives or eczema when under emotional stress. Other connections may not be as obvious, but rest assured, chronic stress, difficult relationships and other challenging situations can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to illness.

You already know the importance of exercise and nutrition. But you may be missing an even more important factor in your health. Here are five ways to lessen your chance of illness during the flu season, and all year round.
Start your day out right.  By starting your morning with a positive act, such as meditating on what you are thankful for, or by creating a grateful list, you'll be sending your body messages it will use to help you stay happy and healthy all day.
Music.  On your way to work, or school, listen to music that makes you feel good. Whether it's soothing, or fun, as long as it makes you smile, you'll be much better prepared to start your busy day. 
Breaks.  Whether you spend your day working with the public, on the computer, or at home, remember to stop and take a break. Use that time for positive thinking to counteract any of the negative stress that you've experienced. Breathe, meditate,  read a book, take a walk and get some fresh air, or just think about your favorite things in life.
Laughter.   Laughter is really the best medicine. It actually reduces stress hormones and even benefits your immune system. Finding the humor in the most difficult of situations is one of the best kept secrets of a happy, and healthy, life.
A hot bath and a good night's sleep.  Relaxing in a hot bath soothes sore muscles and joints, reducing stress and tension which helps you to get a good night's sleep. Getting enough sleep has a big impact on your immune function and disease resistance. This is the time your body uses to repair itself and your immune system, strive for 7-8 hours a night.


When Thanksgiving rolls around you will be ahead of the game, because you will be in the habit of being thankful everyday for the good things in your life.