Keep Moving - Stay Young!

Posted In: Health & Wellness · By: Ian Dimerman · Date: 13 Jan 2008

By Dr. Joey Dimerman
As we age our bodies start showing signs of wear and tear. The cartilage in our knees and hips starts fraying and wearing thin. One sees a generalized disc height reduction in our spines accompanied by signs of spinal degenerative changes. We refer to many of these changes as ‘wear and tear’ in nature- usually influenced or accelerated by years of repetitive strain movements in doing the same job over and over again. Examples of this would be people who devoted many years to working in physical trades or factory work: whereby the exertion on their bodies was constant and longstanding. Often, these physical changes are accompanied by major joint stiffness and pain. This prompts many visits to doctors and a dependence on anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications to cope with the pain. Other, more natural alternatives include visits to massage therapists, chiropractors, physiotherapists and acupuncturists to help solve the pain. Ultimately, people have to take responsibility in maintaining their long term health by committing to take care of their bodies. This involves maintaining their body weights to within 10% of their targets. Incorporating some form of aerobic exercise at least 2-3 times per week in order to maintain optimal cardio-vascular health. Monitoring their diets to the degree that content is more on the low fat side and consisting of at least 6-9 servings of fruit and vegetables daily. Taking vitamin and mineral supplements to complement any dietary deficiencies or needs. Minimizing emotional stress by learning how to cope with difficult situations;seeking out counseling when necessary and trying to maintain a supportive network around you of family and friends. I would also recommend that one incorporate stretching and/or flexibility exercises into ones weekly routines. This may take the form of either Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, Chi Kung or Aqua-Fit classes. Different exercise disciplines are more appealing to different people. The key is to find one that appeals to you and practice it at least 2-3 times per week. This will enable your muscles to retain a more supple feeling, improve joint functions as well as improving your over-all breathing and circulation. As Jack LaLane, the celebrated fitness guru stated in a recent interview: “ it is important to get up and move”. People are not statues and the body was not intended to be placed in a statue like pose for hours at a time”. People have to fight the temptation to sit and vegetate all day in front of videos, computers and monitors and get up and move. Walking, stretching, golfing, playing tennis and exercising are all paramount in maintaining good health and striving towards longevity. The most important thing is not which exercise people gravitate to but rather that they incorporate exercise into their lives. Ones commitment to exercise, good diet, proper sleep and stress control can minimize the visits to the Doctors and therapists offices and lead to more quality time with your family and friends doing the things you enjoy more often.