Just Keep Moving

I hope you are well.  The last few weeks have not been easy with all the uncertainty of COVID-19 and our shelter-in-place orders.  This is an unprecedented time when so many people are out of work, families are learning how to homeschool, we’re separated from our family and friends, buying food is a chore, and where is the damn toilet paper anyway?  It is mentally and physically draining to have our lives turned upside down.

And yet, there is so much beauty.

Here in Los Angeles, the skies are clearer, and the air is cleaner than it has been in at least two years.  Birds are returning to our suburban neighborhood by the flocks.  The garden is lovely, dressed in shades of spring green and we’re actually home to enjoy it!  It’s almost like we’ve been given a front-row seat to the earth’s rejuvenation stage premiere.

Have you also noticed the increase in everyone’s creativity?  This morning I watched a YouTube video of a family’s parody of One Day More from Les Miserables, all about the perils of sheltering in place with your family.  It made me laugh!  Musicians all over the world are sharing their music in free online concerts.  How about Andrea Bocelli’s Concert of Hope on Easter Sunday?  Amazing!

With all the up and down and sideways feelings, we must stay mindful of what our bodies are telling us.  We must make sure to give ourselves some extra love and attention while we walk through this season.  Just one way that I am taking care of myself is through exercise.  My goal is to move every day.

Moving every day doesn’t mean taking myself to the extremes of pain tolerance and endurance, rather it is an intentional mindset to move my body.  Some days I walk; some days I pray the Rosary while I do a SoulCore workout; some days I go online with a friend who is offering active stretch and strengthening classes, and some days I jump on my indoor bike and get my sweat on!  It’s not important what I do as long as I do something!

And just in case you’re wondering, research has shown that mild to moderate exercise:

• helps protect your brain against toxins
• improves cognitive function and ability in people of all ages
• reduces cholesterol and increases fat metabolism
• reduces the risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and cancer
• helps to alleviate anxiety and depression
• improves sleep
• increases the likelihood you will choose healthier foods

So get up and move!  And, if it’s raining where you are like it is here in Southern California, find a way to move while you’re indoors. Many companies are offering free workouts right now.  My personal favorite is Peloton.  https://www.onepeloton.com/app  I have subscribed to their online streaming for years, and it keeps getting better!  Right now they are offering three months free!!  No more excuses, friends!!

Also, check out my video introduction to Building Your Immune System.  This is a new series of videos where I’ll be sharing ways to stay strong and come out of this season stronger than when you went in!

Know that I am thinking of you and sending warm and encouraging thoughts your way!