For 23 years, I've given back to my community through leading group exercise classes at my local Y. Group exercise classes help keep members of my community healthy in body, mind and spirit. I strive to provide the participants with levels of exercise appropriate for their needs and desires and I take my time choreographing my classes and choosing motivational music.
I am constantly inspired by those in my classes. Those who participate as best they can when their mobility is limited. I’m inspired by the seniors in my community who are still exercising in their 90s. There’s even a 101 year old who attends! Mostly I’m inspired by all those who find joy in movement and community in my classes.
Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease are increasing in frequency in today’s society. Exercise is one way to help reduce and relieve these incidences. Osteoarthritis is common with my senior participants and my yoga classes are designed to move through their afflicted joints and strengthen the muscles that support them. Osteoporosis is another malady affecting the senior population and weight bearing and strength exercises have been proven to help strengthen bones. Not only is physical health improved by movement, mental health is positively affected as well. Exercise is a stress release and can improve mental well being. It can also improve memory and be beneficial for those experiencing some dementia. The community that group exercise classes offer is, in my opinion, the greatest benefit. I saw first hand how difficult the isolation of the Covid lockdown was on the senior participants. It was difficult for everyone but especially the seniors. I saw a decline not only in their physical health but also their mental health in just a few months time.
I find a sense of purpose from contributing. That I’m doing something important in my community by helping them stay happy and healthy. It’s all very satisfying.
To twenty more years.
I am constantly inspired by those in my classes. Those who participate as best they can when their mobility is limited. I’m inspired by the seniors in my community who are still exercising in their 90s. There’s even a 101 year old who attends! Mostly I’m inspired by all those who find joy in movement and community in my classes.
Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease are increasing in frequency in today’s society. Exercise is one way to help reduce and relieve these incidences. Osteoarthritis is common with my senior participants and my yoga classes are designed to move through their afflicted joints and strengthen the muscles that support them. Osteoporosis is another malady affecting the senior population and weight bearing and strength exercises have been proven to help strengthen bones. Not only is physical health improved by movement, mental health is positively affected as well. Exercise is a stress release and can improve mental well being. It can also improve memory and be beneficial for those experiencing some dementia. The community that group exercise classes offer is, in my opinion, the greatest benefit. I saw first hand how difficult the isolation of the Covid lockdown was on the senior participants. It was difficult for everyone but especially the seniors. I saw a decline not only in their physical health but also their mental health in just a few months time.
I find a sense of purpose from contributing. That I’m doing something important in my community by helping them stay happy and healthy. It’s all very satisfying.
To twenty more years.
