Where do I start? The many
lessons of life – that was what my dad taught me. He was everything to me and I
was the apple of his eye. The bond between us was strong and immeasurable.
It is sad to think that he’s
not here this father’s day. On December 28, 2005 he died from a brain tumor.
That’s almost 7 yrs. ago. Wow, how time flies. It is ironic that this is what
took his life at 74yrs young, as just moments before his diagnosis; he was the pillar
of health. He was a man who ate right, exercised daily and lived life for every
moment.
One of the many things he
taught me was the importance of taking care of your body, taking care of
yourself, your health. Maybe that is why I am a health coach- he taught me the
importance of good health and in return, I am passing it on to others.
As a young toddler, he taught
me to ride a bike and to always wear a bike helmet, to ski the Rockies (wearing
a ski helmet), to sail a sunfish in the sound, to wear sunglasses and a hat,
and to use sunscreen and lip balm. He taught me to eat a balanced meal (breaded
fish sticks, pasta with tomato sauce, salad and baked apple with ice cream for
dessert was his version of a “balanced meal”!) Today, my version is somewhat
healthier, but the same principles apply! I can remember him saying “the whiter
the bread, the sooner your dead”. Even back then, he knew that whole wheat
bread was healthier than Wonder White! He ate plenty of fruits and vegetables,
and not too much processed sugar and rarely do I recall him drinking soda or
alcohol. Water or seltzer was his drink. He always had “snacks” at hand, to
fend off a “hangry” episode! He exercised daily, even if it was just to stretch
in the morning, but usually he walked vigorously on the treadmill, and did some
weight bearing exercises to keep his muscles strong and toned. He took care of
his skin, always using a moisturizer, never wanting wrinkles before his time.
He was right. He was before
his time. He knew about health!
This Father’s Day- help your
man stay healthy! Does he really need
that grill gadget, a bathing suit, a tie, or new sports equipment? The chances
are not really. What he really needs is a gift that can boost his health! Help
him stay active and fit and encourage him to eat right. ) Get him to move!
Cleaning up the kitchen and
taking out the trash is hardly an aerobic workout! Studies show that having a
physical active lifestyle contribute to successful aging. There is no need for
that tire that has grown around his waist. Push him to go for a run in the park
or the hills, play a game of tennis or swim. Cardio exercise is a key factor to
looking and feeling younger. It is great for maintaining your heart and lungs.
But, it does not make you strong. Weight
training does that. I am not proposing he start body building, but strength
training builds muscle mass and bone density. It can also help relieve
arthritis pain, improve sleep, and improve your guys mood.
Make sure he visits his
doctor for yearly check-ups. Knowledge is power.
Give him the gift that he can
pass on to his children.
This father’s day and every
day, I say a special thank you to my dad. Don’t forget yours!
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!
