Physical Therapy – Live&Work 4healthyu

Ready to really Spring Forward?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles, Physical Therapy, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

I wanted to honor my brother by running a marathon with a nonprofit organization that supported him during his illness. A big goal for me, but no execution! So, I found a way to honor him and challenge myself with a local YMCA 10K Training Team! Here’s what I learned:

First, I discovered that less is more (and healthier) with a 10K! My doctor approved and even high-fived me for my interest. But, while my ego wants to go big, my body says no! So, I work with a great bunch of folks every Saturday for ten weeks before the big event. We are motivated to prepare for and complete a popular community-sponsored race and go on this journey together.

Second, it’s exhilarating to train with a group! Ours include runners and walkers, a/k/a “Movers and Shakers!” Our volunteer coaches are passionate about fitness and training. Time flies as we exercise at our own pace, conversing and breathing effortlessly. We are not competitive but focused on an end goal. I’m honestly shocked at how quickly time passes!

Third, an experienced coach is also an excellent partner! Our head coach leads with attention to detail, including lengthy weekly email updates, printed directions for our course, pep talks, and boundless enthusiasm. Our other coaches space out to start and trail behind with slow pokes (like me)! We enjoy tips on hydration, proper shoes and clothes, great stretching, warm-up, and cool-down exercises, and safety tips (staying alert when alone, managing traffic, cell phones, etc.). Our personal weekday programs prepare us for longer Saturday training sessions.

Okay, it’s almost Spring and time to store your winter coat! Are you ready to shake up and move your fitness to a new level? Consider a training group. Maybe, we’ll see you on the road!

So, what do you want to be when you grow up?

November 27, 2022November 27, 2022 by ETWellness, posted in Careers, Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, I Feel Good!, Physical Therapy, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

This question remains oddly perplexing for kids and adults as we contemplate the next steps in our lives. Choices become even more nerve-racking for adults as the clock ticks away! While watching a favorite weekly drama on television, I heard some sage advice worth sharing.

Let’s start with one annoying, bright, fictional character, a firefighter on an ABC show called Station 19. She is overwhelmed by personal convictions and talent and can’t get out of her own way in life. Finally, her exasperated mentor told her frustrated mentee that the answer was in front of her! In addition, she should look at the job she already knows so well. After this, she should consider an open new role demanding her strong crisis management and people skills.

Further, the mentee’s purpose isn’t some big giant illusive thing to be discovered. Instead, your purpose will reflect everything you’ve done. Everything you’ve done connects the dots in your life and allows you to bring meaning and value to yourself and others. The mentor said that all those dots make you ideal for one area or another, and you’re perfect for leadership now!

In the last few years, I’ve focused on my dots or interests in many areas. Mine include travel, writing, reading, fitness, volunteer projects, etc. I’ve changed jobs to reflect my evolving interests and skills and pivoted away from work that doesn’t interest me.

In one good hour of must-see TV, one can learn something new or confirm what you already know! The answer to what is next is often right in front of you or in places you’ve already ventured. However, it may take a trusted mentor, friend, advisor, or just a little personal courage to see what is in front of you.

Hey, are you all in?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, Lifestyles, Physical Therapy, Uncategorized

It’s easy to be wellness-obsessed and a bit poor in this country! I drew this conclusion after attending a health and wellness conference. I encountered many folks passionate about products and services but struggling to make the living they want and deserve.

Let’s face it; wellness professionals have knowledge, products, and services that could enhance and save lives! They believe in their message, but the financial rewards may not come until later. Some wellness professionals work two jobs, side hustles, and long hours. During the first year of the Pandemic, we saw severe shortfalls in benefits, including paid personal time, sick leave, and health insurance. In addition, some businesses closed forever.

The conference included wellness professionals from A to Z, such as exercise instructors, nurses, x-ray technicians, massage therapists, life coaches, personal trainers, physical therapists, mental health workers, nurses, teachers, etc. Honestly, it would take a big tent to include every wellness professional! But, we know they touch the mind, body, and spirit of clients, customers, and patients every day. So, their connection to wellness is professional and quite personal too.

But I can see the determination and grit of people here. Wellness professionals face challenges in their work but continue to believe in it and want to help others. They continue to work hard, refine skills, improve sales pitches, and focus on the future. They believe in what they do, manage setbacks, and possess remarkable patience for the long haul. I can’t help but think I’m in great company!

Feeling good from head to toe!

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles, Physical Therapy

I just “graduated” from physical therapy! Today, I’m feeling like a million bucks relative to the PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL, and SPIRITUAL dimensions of wellness!

As I worked on the health challenge that brought me to physical therapy, I realized how much I missed the gym! Honestly, my exercise routine suffered a lot since Corvid. I didn’t feel comfortable in the health club and avoided mine for the last two-plus years.

Physical Therapy or “PT” helped reignite my excitement about exercising! It took me back to cardio (loving a great sweat!), stretching, and strength training. Suddenly, I could hear Patti Labelle in my ears, singing about my “New Attitude!” and that “I know where I’m going and I know what to do!” I’m now excited about smartly working out, and feeling that special “high” I missed. Oddly enough, I feel freer now and yet more grounded.

I normally go in a different direction with each post. For example, I recently completed one about how much I dreaded returning to physical therapy! So, this moment is about remembering the pure joy of exercise! But it’s also about having a deeper understanding of my experience, and response to the Pandemic. I know I’m not alone.

My graduation day didn’t include speeches, beautiful flowers, family gatherings, and gift cards! But I have to tell you that I loved my t-shirt (a parting gift!). Finally, I’m grateful for a more positive outlook on life, thankful for fabulous professional support, and I look forward to the future!