Saturday, March 26, 2011

Back in the mix

I've said it many times on previous blog post that I would be much better about updating this blog, but something always comes up. Eh, why try to lie, I'm lazy as hell. Well, actually, I was lazy as hell. I've been feeling a lot more energy lately and have been getting things done.

Okay, let's talk about exercising. Back in my 20's, I got in shape for superficial reasons, look good for the ladies, and all that. My 30's brought on various health issues like gout, high BP, mysterious aches and pains. So, now I exercise mainly for health and longevity reasons. A few months ago, I screwed up my back doing some burpees. Instead of going to the doctor, I went to an acupuncturist who fixed my back in one session. I then let her know about all of my other health issues.

From there, she introduced me to a whole new world of possibilities. See, most people accept that as we get older we deteriorate. She showed me that I don't have to accept that. I've replaced bench pressing, squatting, and various gym exercises with Qi Gong and Tai Chi type exercises like the basic Tai Chi walk:



This exercise alone done for at least 15 minutes will help lower cholesterol and blood pressure and if done often enough, will keep the lower body strong throughout the rest of your life. I see people in their 80's who do Tai Chi, walking with as much pep and balance as most 20 year-olds. Most, people in their 80's wobble around when they walk and that's if they aren't using a cane or a walker or even a wheel chair.

For the most part, I feel 100% better than I did 3 months ago. As simple as these exercises appear, I can assure you that you really get a good work out. You won't look like a body builder or a supermodel, but you'll feel much better and have more energy. Now, I didn't intend for this blog post to be some sort of sales pitch about the wonders of Tai Chi and Qi Gong. But, I will vouch for it. The one thing I learned - laziness is an effect of poor health, not the cause. That's right!