Creating Your Own Health and Fitness Lifestyle

I know that some months, like last month, the newsletters run rather long. In fact though, I am still getting positive comments from readers who just got around to reading it. It was the newsletter about success leaving clues and I gave you 16 clues and action steps to consider. Seems many of you had at least one clue/action step that was particularly meaningful and made you think, "Hey, that one is  aimed at me." I always appreciate your feedback and hearing that these newsletters are helpful!

This month's newsletter will be short and to the point!

It's Independence Day weekend here in the U.S. and I found myself thinking about MY independent thinking when it comes to my health and fitness. Here's what I came up with.

While it's easy to fall into a trap of listening to the media or even well meaning friends about what's best for getting into shape, staying fit and trim or aging well, I prefer to "listen" to myself. It's a soft kind of listening and to give you an example of just what I mean, I'd like to share with you what I've created as my own health and fitness practices these days.

1. I'm practicing Tai Chi, every day, mostly in the mornings. I like to do it on a completely empty stomach and my practice takes about 45 minutes. Keeping my joints healthy and mobile is of utmost importance to me. I like that Tai Chi is minimally muscular and maximally about joint mobility. I also like the chi flowing benefits that I feel. It's good for me and right for me at this time.

2. I'm open water swimming A LOT, at least 3 or 4 times a week. I often walk 1.5 miles from the parking area to the water and then back again. On the way back I walk barefoot on the grass. I enjoy going barefoot and it's good for my feet. I swim for at least an hour and do stretching and mobility movements in the water after I swim.

3. On many days I walk my dog on a three mile loop. It's an easy walk; too hot to jog with him right now. I consider this gentle recovery time for me. I'll often walk after dinner too. I believe in the Ayurvedic principle of aiding digestion by walking at least 1000 steps after a meal. 

4. I'm not doing any formal strength training right now, though I do consider open water swimming to be upper body strength training for me. I do play golf and walk if the course will let me. I'll go hiking or for a trail run if I get a chance. Also, when I teach or coach I get plenty of exercise but I don't consider that part of my private health and fitness time.

5. For the past few months I've been eating A TON of fruit and lots of variety, too. I eat berries, papaya, watermelon, peaches, pineapple, lychee, bananas, mango, and just about any other fruit as well. Fruit is what I'm drawn to, so fruit is what I eat.

See what I mean about listening and creating a way of moving and eating that works for you?

I feel great, look great (if I may say so!?) have plenty of energy, am injury free and enjoy my athleticism and diet. Knowing and doing what's right for you brings a zest to life and a level of enjoyment that can't be faked.

I invite you to do some independent thinking and listening this month to ensure that your health and fitness practices are working for you!

shelli