Midwest Mary

In my third post in the series of “What Makes Us Happy,” I want to tell you about the very enjoyable ways in which I exercise.

I’m on the “slow but steady workout plan.” At this point, if it’s painful, I don’t do it. That’s just me. I’m all about what brings me joy and peace.

I use three avenues to healthy, happy exercise: I work out in a therapy pool, practice yoga, and walk or hike.

Therapy Pool
I’m fortunate to belong to a health club associated with a local hospital that has a therapy pool. The pool has a couple of large containers full of “toys” to work out with including noodles, claws, and weights. The weights have various sizes of foam at the ends that create resistance in the water.

This pool is as warm as bath water. When I walk down the steps into the pool, I can’t help but exclaim, “Ahhhhhhhhh.” The water feels so good!

I practice a routine I learned from physical therapy which works arm and leg muscles as well as builds core strength. The resistance of the water and the weights offers a solid workout without pain.

It’s also very social. We usually see the same people when going at the same time, which makes it fun to exercise while visiting with friends.

Yoga
Yoga has been a part of my life for—-I don’t know how long–many decades. I practice on my own and in classes either at the gym or online. The stretching and deep breathing feel wonderful and keep me flexible. I enjoy the peaceful music and rhythm of the movement. The quiet also gives my brain a break from work or conversation.

I’m always happier after yoga.

Walking/Hiking
The outdoors is healing and invigorating. I enjoy being in the middle of greenery, wildlife, and sunshine. Most often, I walk near home or at a park, or I hike in forest preserves with a friend. The social aspect of walking with a friend checks the box for exercise as well as keeping social. Time flies when we chat and enjoy the sights and sounds that we pass on our path. I also am safer when walking/hiking in numbers, especially while in wooded or secluded areas.

My goal is to exercise three to five days a week since my work is typically done while sitting with a laptop. And I vary the workouts. The variety is better overall for my muscles and prevents me from getting too much chlorine from the pool, pollen from the outdoors, or boredom from always being inside.

Exercise doesn’t have to be painful or boring. We just want to find what works best for us. In the long run, stretching and moving those muscles along with deep breathing keeps our body, mind, and spirit strong and healthy.

*Photo by Mary K. Doyle
**See the Other Posts in the Happiness Series: What Makes Us Happy, My Happy Home.

©2024, Mary K. Doyle