SPRINGTIME

 

Each season of the year has its uniqueness but spring is the only one that brings a new beginning of fresh growth. Instead of leaves turning brown and falling from the trees we see new buds forming on the branches.   Birds come back from their winter flight.
   We awaken to feel the warmth of the sun and shed a few winter wraps we wore for the short cold snaps we had.  And yes, here in Florida all we have is nostalgic memories of those stormy cold and icy winters we once weathered when we lived up north. Remember the snow shoveling we used to do and the ice we scraped off the windshield?   And, what about the earmuffs we used to wear?  But, spring here is still a wonderful time to enjoy those refreshing morning walks and our daily exercises.  April here is warm enough to take a dip in the pool.  Even with the allergies spring brings us we find remedies to keep us comfortable.
   Spring really began with the vernal equinox at 7:02 A.M. (EDT) on March 20, 2013 in the northern hemisphere.  The word equinox is derived from the Latin word meaning equal nights.  Actually, days and nights are approximately equal everywhere with the sun rising in the east and setting in the west.   Our days are becoming longer and more comfortable as we head toward summer.
   The spring season is full of transformations and aside from the weather’s changes our lives are transforming, too.  Those of us who have allergies our immune systems will get a wakeup call.   Of course, there are  threatening situations where there is nothing absolute about the weather.  What with hurricanes lurking in the Atlantic and April showers a frequent visit, a rain jacket and an umbrella need to be available and even stored in your car.
What is so nice about spring is that it inspires us to planning for the future.  Vacations are not far away.  Perhaps, it’s an automobile tour out west or a transatlantic cruise.  Maybe it’s a July 4^th party or a welcome visit from distant relatives.   Sometimes at this time of the year our medical issues seem to subside or are held in abeyance.   Most important we are encouraged to increase our self awareness and recognize that our body is our temple we need to preserve.  At the same time that we take care of ourselves we need to protect our earth and environment which need constant surveillance and the utmost care too.
   Spring helps us realize the importance of learning how to embrace and adapt to change over time.  It is the season that contributes ideas of rebirth, rejuvenation, renewal and festivity. It is a time when we can connect to one another and even build new friendships.  No one can be an island unto oneself and remain happy.  Yes, there is always a risk to reach out but the rewards far exceed the losses.

 

 

FREE TIME

Many of us have varying lifestyles.  But, there is one that is quite popular among seniors. Living a sedentary lifestyle is quite popular; and particularly, among those of us who are retired.  Oh yes, there are the tennis players and the golfers but what about all those retirees who don’t even resort to any real physical exercise like even taking a walk?  Even with the availability of our fitness center there are some people who are virtually “Couch Potatoes”.

I have heard that word for quite a few years and realize that I had almost adopted it as a label for myself until I researched its origin and meaning.  It refers to one who leads a sedentary life and particularly enjoys activities including sitting, reading, watching television, playing video games and using the computer for most of the day with little or no vigorous physical exercise.  Then, I searched further and found out that the term couch potato had actually had a birthday.   It came into being on July 15, 1976 when it was first uttered by Tom Iacino of Pasadena, California during a telephone conversation.  He was a member of a group in Southern California who amusingly opposed the fads of exercise and healthy diet in favor of vegetating in front of the TV and eating junk food giving themselves the name “boob tubers” substituting the name potato for tube, hence couch potato.  Subsequently, Couch Potato was registered as a trademark.  Robert Armstrong, also a “boob tuber” member drew a cartoon of a potato on a couch and formed a club called the Couch Potatoes.  He began merchandising paraphernalia such as T shirts and dolls. He even published a newsletter and a book, called Dr. Spudd’s Etiquette for the Couch Potato.  So today, the couch potato culture is in vogue. 

As humorous as the couch potato movement may appear, it also signals a serious note to all of us.   A sedentary life may be innocent of itself; but, it is important to understand that excessive sitting and watching TV is linked to negative health consequences.  Think for a moment that in years past, people hospitalized for surgery or other medical issues remained bedridden for weeks at a time.  The medical profession came to recognize that getting the patient up and walking as soon as possible insured quicker recovery and increased longevity.

Walking can be considered the cornerstone for survival and good health.  Most important is that you check with your doctor and if you know your general health condition is okay you can decide how much and how fast you can walk.  Strolling in Walmart, Publix or a mall is fine but walking as an exercise is a bit different from a stroll.Walking involves moving at a pace that feels comfortable for you. The National Institute of Health and Human Services recommends for adults 65 and older to do two and a half hours a week.  However, if that is too much, be as physically active as your abilities and condition allow. 
 

Your free time is more valuable for your health if you avoid being a couch potato.