By Lakshmi
Originally published March 18, 2022
It doesn’t pay to skip my workout routine.
This morning I awaken and ponder whether this is my three-times-a-week exercise day. I don’t really want to do it, but have nothing I have to do right away anyway. Still, the morning gets away from me and I find excuses not to do my routine of yoga and physical therapy. Later, after sitting at the computer for a while, I get up and find my body stiff – back, knees, ankles – all the parts that get exercised. I am reminded that I sloughed off this morning.
I can’t complain about this as I know without a doubt that when I do my regular workout, I feel healthy and can walk further on my daily walks. No one else can fix this body long term, not any of the professionals that help me tend it.
This is so important as I age in body and mind. Yes, I enjoy my workout and feel energized each time. So why do I make it a chore? Am I not interested in being hale and hearty at my age, at any age?
Yoga is central to my life and it involves physical, mental and spiritual practices – a full balanced lifestyle. I know when I’m out of balance and sense that I have dropped one part of it. In the hatha yoga triangle pose (trikonasana) I can see these three parts working together…or not. Doing hatha yoga regularly helps keep me focused, which in turn enhances my mental and spiritual practices. It helps me keep healthy and positive in my inner and outer life.
Soooooo back to my workout routine at least three times a week. More would be better, but I aim for the three. Reminding myself of the benefits daily; that it is not a chore, but a privilege to be able to use my body to enhance this whole life.