Remember the TV sitcom Cheers, "where everybody knows you name?" Maybe the bar is not the best place for connecting with others, but for many, that is their world.
For others there are jobs, family members, churches, civic and social groups that offer support systems, but retirement, death, divorce, job changes all take their toll on a social life and eventually many of us find our world shrinking with fewer of those contacts that made our life richer and healthier.
We all know the routine: the benefits of exercise, a balanced diet and staying involved. Aging does not imply sitting in front of the TV or computer all day, but rather movement, movement and more movement, be it running, biking, swimming, yoga, walking, lifting weights, dancing or whatever....just keep moving....often and regularly.
We in Hot Springs, SD are fortunate to have opportunities, no matter the weather, for movement, and, surprise, surprise, for making those most important social connections. Of course Evans Plunge offers exercise equipment, a walking route, a pool filled with natural spring waters and a health club for the aching muscles. What is not promoted or touted in any manner is the opportunity for socializing, so vital to well-being. Where does this happen? In the small area filled with heat. The hot tubs, sauna and steam rooms offer endless possibilities for vigorous or casual conversations and, after a time, friendships with some regular members.
I don't fancy bars, my job is long retired, family members and former friends have passed on, (my Christmas card list has grown shorter each year), my children have pursued jobs several states away, friends have dispersed to far-away places, (as have I) but new contacts keep rising to help me stay involved with life and also the intimacy and warmth of the health club at our local community fitness center offers opportunities for cultural exchanges with tourists from Austria or interactions with members who prefer to frequent a health club to sitting at a local bar.
This is wonderful and you are so right about being able to talk to someone besides just looking at 4 walls all the time. Everyone needs to be able to get outside to have fresh clean air and move, movement sure does decrease stiffness.
ReplyDeleteIf you did not see my post on this month's newsletter. I love the new format and the pictures. Thank you !
I appreciate your kind words. We need more than a healthy diet and movement. Social interactions are part of the "health package". Keep moving, meeting, volunteering and interacting. It's all good stuff.
DeleteThis is wonderful and you are so right about being able to talk to someone besides just looking at 4 walls all the time. Everyone needs to be able to get outside to have fresh clean air and move, movement sure does decrease stiffness.
ReplyDeleteIf you did not see my post on this month's newsletter. I love the new format and the pictures. Thank you !