Almost every one of my posts are health or exercise related. This one won't be any different. I will promote a fitness thought but more than that, I hope this article may bring you a little more. My wish is that it will give you "Perspective" both with exercise and life lessons.
My sons, the head coach of the BYU football team and the President of the same university had the opportunity to talk at at fireside which is a meeting held to inspire people through their own personal experiences, talents and beliefs. There were over 1600 people in attendance to hear what they had to say plus their remarks were remotely televised to 12 other satellite congregations. Yes, I am a very proud parent but more importantly my sons reminded me about a few very import lessons. Marcus spoke on perspective. He taught me to look at the big picture and realize what was really important. Mitch followed with, no matter what hardships have befallen you, you need to stay strong and positive. Boy, I needed to hear that message. I realize I have so much to be thankful for and that my struggles are small compared to some.
As the weekend progressed I saw many things that reinforced "Perspective" for me. My husband and I were involved in a walk for Multiple Sclerosis in Idaho Falls. As we walked the short course to raise money I noticed many who didn't use their disease as an excuse. The speed may have been far from record breaking but they did not stop. I noticed an older gentleman was being passed by many. He was definitely impaired on one side of his body. His gait was very uneven and he had a hard time keeping up. I caught up with him and started up a conversation. His positive attitude beamed right through his big smile. I learned so much from him. He wasn't walking for himself, he was there for his son who was in a wheel chair. This father, who has had cerebral palsy his whole life was thinking about someone else. He told us that he needed to show his son his love and support. He also mentioned that he had just lost his father-in-law to diabetes and his son's wife was just diagnosed with breast cancer. My husband and I walked the rest of the route with this wonderful man and felt lucky and inspired to be with him. The pace of our walk was perfect because it gave me a lot of time for reflection and "Perspective" on my wonderful life. It helped me appreciate Mitch's comments on overcoming hardships with a good attitude. This man was such a great example of that very thing.
When we finally got home and I had a chance to go through all my emails, I had a wonderful article waiting for me to read. It is about one of my clients from Oregon. She is amazing and her strength, both literally and figuratively is inspiring. She hasn't let her trials stop her. I will post it below.
Today I had to opportunity to work with someone who is struggling to get her body back to a healthy place. I felt bad at her frustration and encouraged her that she will get stronger. I want to share with her and many of my clients that the fight for health and happiness isn't always easy or painless. She isn't alone and that through perspective and a positive attitude, she can get through this. I see many of my clients fight hard to overcome health issues or even consistantly work out. Just know that I'm here for you. I am inspired by you and your dedication to get to a healtier place.
Thanks to my sons for sharing so much wisdom and thanks to my clients who show me everyday how to overcome obstacles. I am so lucky to be inspired by so many. Keep up the good work
Trapeze-flying cancer survivor credits Pilates with health and healing
She flies through the air with the greatest of ease,
That daring dear Kay on the flying trapeze …
It’s an old song, re-written in a new key by Kay, a Pacific Northwest Pilates (PNWP) client. She just conquered an aerial trapeze class with the help of her Pilates work. And that’s not all. Kay—and her doctor—credits her fitness via Pilates and other training as a big boost in her recovery from breast cancer and a misdiagnosed ruptured appendix.
Kay approaches her fitness training “like a job” with intention and determination. Pilates is the cornerstone of Kay’s regime, which includes aerobics, strength training and yoga.
Jean says that aerial moves on a Pilates Cadillac prepped Kay physically for her trapeze adventure—specifically her advanced work, including Walkover, Tuck into Flexion and Extension, High Bridge and Reverse Pull Ups. Kay mastered what is “killer” for strengthening the upper body, increasing grip strength and getting the body used to being upside-down.
Way to transfer your Pilates lesson into real-life Kay!
