Many people of all ages have heard from their well-caring friends, relatives or doctors that they need to get out and exercise their bodies, minds and spirits. The idea that a workout works is not new. The phrase, “Use it or lose it” has been around a long time, and it applies to both body and brain; especially since people are living longer than ever before and have an expressed desire to live independently. If your New Year’s Resolution was to ‘get out there’, it’s not too late to keep it! There are many companies, clubs, associations and informal groups that meet regularly and are thrilled to welcome new participants into their circles.
Askennonia Senior Centre in Midland is just one such place that welcomes new members all year long. February is a great time to check out what’s happening, as the whole first week is an Open House, when everyone who has had a 55th birthday can sample daily activities free of charge and without any obligation what so ever. There are 16 weekly physical activities ranging from Tai Chi to square dancing, fibromyalgia exercise class to line dancing and badminton to yoga. Physical exercise increases your core strength, improves balance, reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, wards off depression, increases good cholesterol, strengthens bones and improves your mood and self esteem by releasing endorphins. Choir is also an excellent exercise for your lungs and improves posture. In short, exercise can be fun, especially is you sprinkle it with laughter and have an opportunity to meet new friends or meet up with old friends.
Askennonia, along with other local groups and organizations, offers opportunities to exercise your mind, as well. Whether you choose bridge or bird carving, book club or computer lessons, creative writing or watercolour, your brain is given a workout and that’s good for you. Taking a class to learn something you’ve always wanted to understand tops most Brain Exercise lists, probably because it’s something you will enjoy and continue. Check out when activities happen at Askennonia (newsletter is available online www.askennonia.com or at centre) or at local churches, arts groups, bridge clubs or libraries and drop in. Taking a friend might make it easier for you, but going solo should get you a few points for courage!
As you already know, there’s really no good reason not to at least listen to the advice of your family, friends or doctor and participate. Many organizations try to make it easier for you and if you have issues or concerns that make it difficult, there’s usually someone out there to help overcome the barriers to participation. A telephone call often gets the ball rolling and Askennonia have a group of trained volunteers, the Ask Me Group, who would be happy to be of assistance at 526-7609. Please call.