Simple movement
Canadian golfer Ben Silverman from Thornhill here at the the PGA in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
My yoga teacher has never advocated that one should compare one’s physical condition, both strength and flexibility, with someone else: that yoga is not a competition. However, as I age, even if gracefully, I do find inspiration from others. It’s not just personalities from the sports world because, so often, people in this realm are pushing themselves beyond what is truly healthy, especially taking into account repetitive strains or injuries that their activities inflict on the body. I might be in awe of the physical skills of someone with Cirque de Soleil or a dancer with the National Ballet but there is a high cost to such excellence. Still, like a well-oiled machine, the stature of physical dexterity can seem impressive. If it motivates you to action, then go with it.
I confess that my overall athletic hero is Mick Jagger because, despite his early history of abuse, his flexibility and stamina are impressive for someone in his 80’s who continues to deliver energetic performances. His physical prowess goes beyond mere genetics; he works at remaining in good shape by a combination of cardio-vascular workouts, strengthening exercise, a good diet, as well as stretching, yoga, meditation, pilates, ballet, kickboxing and massage. He even uses a foam roller, which I personally will admit is extremely painful on certain muscles. So, he comes by his octogenarian good health and longevity with applied discipline.
Me, looking for shelter from the sun !!!! PGA champion Jake Knapp in the green shirt obviously hamming for the camera. Oh, what ego !!
That I should be so lucky! Still, if one can envy certain aspects of another person then perhaps there is a chance to emulate. Last week I was at a PGA tournament here in Mexico and watched from mere feet away to what seemed like flawless performance. In my younger years, I played rugby, cricket, boxing, competitive cross country running and golf. In later years, I was into martial arts. With a few injuries along the way, I have chosen to modify my physical activity. What has worked for me both physically and mentally is applying the principles of moderation in keeping with my adherence to the philosophy of Goldilocks and the Three Bears: the porridge should be “Not too hot, not too cold, but just right.”
For good health, it is important to be active but I don’t expect you to go from zero to 100 overnight. If you have been inactive for a long time, taking the first step will set you in motion in more ways than one. You can start with exercises as simple as flexing all the joints of the body or putting them through their full range of motion. It may not sound like a major achievement but from there you will be on your way. In other words, follow the old adage of don’t run before you can walk.
