Cape Breton Columnist Embraces a Vibrant Journey Towards Wellness in 2023

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Many individuals kick off the beginning of a new year by establishing several New Year’s goals. Some are aiming to quit smoking or perhaps partake in a ‘dry January’ to promote reduced alcohol consumption.

A lot will purchase a gym membership with the intention of enhancing their physical activity levels.

Not me…. I simply struggle with adhering to goals. My self-discipline is quite minimal.

I’m going to commence 2025 with a sincere admission. “I have a profound aversion to physical activity.” There…I’ve articulated it!

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I fully recognize that physical activity enhances your overall wellness. I have friends who frequently attend Perry’s Gym in Glace Bay. My youngest sibling, Trish, participates in marathons with her running companions. My other sister, Rita, has a walking group in Boisdale. Just view the image of that delightful group of friends.

Kudos to them!

Even though I don’t possess any significant affection for physical movement, I realize that I must strive to alter my mindset. I simply cannot depend on genetics to ensure a lengthy life. Father lived until 92 and Mother reached 87. So that’s an advantage I have.

Options for Activity

What options exist for enhancing my level of physical activity? I doubt that walking to my vehicle qualifies.

There is a walking club in Port Morien. I have vowed to myself that I will attend at least once a week. An 8-week chair yoga class has commenced at the Morien Legion: 1:30 p.m. every Wednesday. I’m optimistic that I can handle that. This activity is organized by Cape Breton Regional Municipality. The instructor is the remarkably skilled Eleanor Peach-Gallant. Everyone is invited to join and best of all, it’s free.

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To raise my level of physical activity, I have started taking small steps. When I visit the supermarket, I take a few additional strolls around the store after I’ve gathered my groceries.

I don’t circle around looking for a space closest to the entrance. I park further away. As I mentioned…small steps!

From the comfort of my vehicle, I’ve observed that a lot of individuals are out walking. Engaging in a brisk walk is a simple fitness approach. Minimal equipment is necessary. Just a pair of sneakers or boots with good traction for winter walking.

Boost your spirits

Going for a walk can elevate your mood. Just 10 minutes of walking can lift your spirits.

Research indicates that taking a walk outdoors can positively influence your nervous system.

This is especially vital during the colder seasons when seasonal depression levels are higher compared to the warmer months. When you make your walks more social by walking with companions, you will feel more joyous.

Walking can add years to your lifespan. A recent study showed that individuals who engaged in just 30-50 minutes of moderate exercise weekly had an 18 percent lower risk of premature death compared to inactive individuals.

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The list continues endlessly. Walking aids in burning calories to support maintaining a healthy weight.

Walking enhances your cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure.

It can help diminish stress levels and enhance sleep quality. Research shows that physical activity can boost cognitive function in older women. I certainly fall into that ‘older women’ category.

I believe I might have persuaded myself. I’ll begin with chair yoga at the legion and plan to walk with the Morien ladies regularly.

I do wish to live a long, healthy life!

Yvonne Kennedy is a retired educator residing in Homeville. She can be reached via email at [email protected].

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