Here we go again with a twist

by Tina Y. Gerber – McCurley

I know from experience, exercise is very effective and beneficial for most seniors. I anticipate a right knee replacement in the new year. I am looking to further improve my strength, balance, and flexibility, as well as my mental and emotional well-being.

As we age, we see physical changes that can negatively affect muscles and bone strength, as well as other bodily systems. Moderate physical activity does benefit your overall health. It’s important to incorporate daily activity, such as walking, swimming, biking, and even dancing! Regular exercise can help you sleep better and lower your blood pressure. It can also help reduce heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and help strengthen bones and improve balance.

Exercise really helps manage conditions like osteoarthritis and joint pain, improve circulation and blood flow throughout the body, and enhance balance, which helps reduce the risk of falls and enhances overall functional fitness. I usually follow a 30-minute YouTube program three times weekly, which helps with pain relief, including a gentle seated stretch and flexibility routine.

My left knee replacement took a very long time to heal. I had planned to have a more aggressive approach to encourage a quicker recovery with my right knee!

However, the Bible mentions that physical exercise is of some value but places greater emphasis on godliness. It also teaches us the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Following God in faith, not the world, means living according to biblical principles rather than popular culture.

I now consider my exercise routine a form of worship and an act of gratitude for my body, a gift from God. My exercise routine no longer feels like a burden. This simple change in my attitude takes the bonds of fitness into a feeling of freedom and into a place of grace, and joy. Loving God with our heart, mind and soul includes caring for our body. As a Christian, we do not depend on our own strength or on our works but wait on the Lord. He is the one who gives us strength, both in this life and the next.