raises heart rate and breathing ca- pacity, increases circulation of blood and nutri- ents to all systems of the body and, as new research from the Univer- sity of Pittsburgh shows, improves memory. It’s a relatively low-im- pact, safe, form of exercise that also gets you outdoors, which has its own balancing bene- fits. Beginners can


try for 10 minutes a day at a slow, com- fortable pace, while more experienced walkers may shoot for 30 minutes a day at a faster, more invigorating pace.


Try Something New


Sticking to the safe, familiar and tried- and-true may seem like an energy- conservation measure, but upsetting your routine and trying new things can recultivate a passion for life. And pas- sion, says Marks, helps provide life with meaning and purpose. “It’s important to find pleasures outside of work, even if you do love your job,” she counsels. What will you do? Something you’ve always wanted to do, or used to do and have always wanted to get back to. Or, something you never thought you could do, or think you’re too old to do. Natural Awakenings’ monthly Cal- endar of Events is a perfect place to start. Take a cooking or art class (local com- munity colleges are great, too) or join a dining or green drinks or birdwatching group (Meetup.com facilitates local gatherings). Learn a new sport (tennis, paddleboarding, salsa dance) or a musi- cal instrument (ukulele, an easy instru- ment to pick up, is making a comeback). Join a community gardening, handcraft- ing or reading circle, which are all part of the growing make-it-yourself move- ment. The list is endless...


Frances Lefkowitz’s new book, To Have Not, has been named one of five Best Memoirs of 2010 by SheKnows.com. Connect at FrancesLefkowitz.net.


natural awakenings February 2011 39


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