Sensei Talks  

Let’s be honest, I don’t like going to the gym! I would much rather stay at home or hang out with my friends, but I know I’ve got to exercise! It’s no secret that physical activity is essential for overall health, but exercise becomes even more critical once you start getting over what I like to call the “humps”.

The first hump happens around 25 when your body stops growing. At this stage weight loss is still relatively easy and starting an exercise program is almost effortless. If you eat sensibly and workout on a regular basis, you begin to see results fairly quick. The second hump happens around 40. By this time your body has a mind of its own and some parts may be heading south! You have to work so much harder to lose even 5 pounds or to see changes from a new exercise program.

What to do? I say…whatever you like, but just do something! Instead of calling my friends to go for a drink or coffee, it’s “Hey, let’s go for a walk, I’ll pick you up!” or “Let’s go to the Art Fair! Even if we don’t buy anything, we’ll just walk around”. And if I end up at home watching TV, instead of just sitting on the couch I stand in front of it and walk in place, do a little dance, move my arms or shake my “booty” (I really hope no one is watching). Just move something!

This may sound or look silly, but we have to do more than we usually do if we want to see results. Find something you like that you can do on a regular basis, NOT just for two weeks! Then find 30 minutes almost every day to be active (break it up if you need to); if Oprah can find the time in her busy schedule, I’m sure you can too! So let’s do it once and for all, have some fun and stick with it! Roller blade, belly dance, stretch, swim, walk or do yoga - choose whatever works for you.

To prove that I believe in the power of movement, I’m making you a promise. As of December 1, 2007 I will be exercising or “moving my body” for a minimum of 30 minutes at least 5 times a week. This way I can do more if I want, but in case I don’t, I will still keep my promise to you.

What about you?

- Josee