Traditionally speakingby Pat Larsen - MOTION IS THE LOTION

I was recently having a conversation with a close friend who is a medical practitioner. We touched upon the topic of movement as one of the most valuable aspects of healing regardless of age.

It was her 78 year old patient, a farmer his entire life,  who quoted the phrase that is the title of this piece. That simple four word statement stayed with me.

My experience as a  fitness instructor has been quite extensive. Just before retiring from my professional career  as a health care provider that spanned 45 years, I became licensed to teach programs designed exclusively for ages 55+ and older.

As a matter of fact, I am proud to say that my classes consist, in part, of those well into their late 80’s and mid 90’s. THEY are literally our role models every day.

That’s when I realized that it was indeed continuous “motion” that was the key to opening the emotional stability that they each were able to access regardless of their ages. 

Why is that? Well, think of it this way. There’s something very valuable in facilitating the aging mind to be able to maintain a degree of functionality and to lay claim to their own day to day abilities. This  is the treasure that impacts one's dignity through simple victories even though the aging process can impact one's strength. 

So if MOTION IS THE LOTION…what is it that you can do or encourage your loved ones to engage in that will help to keep  them going long into the aging years?

Before I give you the answer, there’s one more aspect of this subject that is the clue to the success of all…it’s community.

My special phrase, although not of my own design, is one that I use all the time…

IN COMMUNITY WE HEAL, IN ISOLATION WE FALL INTO DIS-EASE.

There’s the two parts of the mystery solved…movement and continuance of involvement within one's community.

Whether it’s at church, or a Senior gathering, maybe a local class or just inviting a neighbor to sit on the porch to have a cup of tea.  Getting together for a walk and  talk matters so very much as we grow, in my belief, wiser as we age. 

Take a moment to think about this concept for yourself and those who are in your world. Motion…moving, shifting, stirring all contribute to that balm that soothes us of mind and spirit.

Pat Larsen is a licensed fitness instructor teaching weekly classes for Seniors and Baby Boomers in Greene County, NY.

Please feel free to check out her Facebook invites for classes under Pat Larsen, or call at 518-275-8686 for more info.

A simple phone interview can determine if this is the right program for yourself or for a loved one.