Stay Flexible, Stay Young!

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When is the last time you tried something for the first time?  Think and be honest with yourself.
In the physical fitness world studies show that one sure sign of aging is the lack of flexibility.  I believe wholeheartedly that we can also apply that finding to all other areas of our life.

*Each of us should strive to constantly expand our minds by learning something new.  This should include growing in your understanding of yourself, others and God.   Sign up for a seminar or a class. If you are interested in joining us for our monthly telephone class click here.
Be opened minded regarding various subjects (be flexible!).  There are even free online courses available from Ivy League schools in the "massive open online courses" offerings.  click here to read what that means.
 If you've always wanted to paint or to write a book, go for it!  What have you got to lose?  If you say, "well, I'm 50 years old and by the time I master _____(fill in the blank) I'll be _____(fill in the blank)."  Guess what?  You'll still be that old (God willing) even if you don't dive into that thing that's been tugging at your heart! 

Did you know?

-George Foreman regained the heavyweight championship of the world at age 45.
-The great actor,  Morgan Freeman was virtually unknown until he was 50.
-Willy Shoemaker won the Kentucky Derby at 54.
-Grandma Moses started painting when she was 78 and was still doing one-woman art shows well into her nineties.
-At age 83 architect Frank Lloyd Wright was asked which of his masterpieces was his best and he answered, "the next one!"
-Titian painted his famous "Allegory of the Battle of Lepanto" when he was 84


 *Nourish your soul by volunteering.  Even if you are a busy working person, make sure that you carve out at least an hour or two a month where you help others without expectation of getting something in return.  Don't prejudge a person or an organization.  Get involved and help!

*Take care of your body.   Take time to exercise.  Your physical body is the only one that you will ever have.  Treat your body with respect by making your workouts as much a priority as your shopping expeditions, your lunch appointments, your television watching or your movie going.
If you work in an office all day make sure that you forget the elevator and opt for the stairs when you can.  Instead of plopping down in a restaurant and checking your Facebook during lunch as you power down your "fast food",  slow down and "smell the roses."  Consider packing a nutritious lunch the night before and enjoy consuming it outside by walking to and finding a park bench or even a small patch of grass.  Sit quietly alone without your smart phone and watch as people walk by.  You'll be amazed at the thoughts you will entertain and you will feel refreshed when you return to your office.
 Even if you don't go to an office, make sure that you go outside and breathe some fresh air each day.  Feel the sun as it warms your skin and also notice the sounds and the smells which will help you connect to your creator.

*Stretch your whole person each day.   Challenge your body, your mind, and your soul.   It might feel uncomfortable at first but do it anyway.  Take baby steps so you can succeed.  New Year's resolutions and goal setting should be a year-long commitment.  The reason most people do not reach the goals they set for themselves is that they set unrealistic ones without proper accountability and encouragement.   If you need help or advice contact me and I can help you sort it all out.

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"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will."    Romans 12:2