Commencing March 3rd at 9 a.m., and continuing each Thursday morning until Easter, Gladys will once again offer a stretching class, to limber us up for the gardening (or golf) season. This is a series of gentle stretch exercises - head to toe, suitable for any age.
Exercise is important for people of all ages, including seniors. Research shows us that exercise can improve function in four areas that are important for staying healthy and independent: strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance. There is also evidence that an active lifestyle improves cognitive function, elevates mood and may even help to ward off dementia.
Mental fitness seems to depend on a large part on being connected with other people. One study published in 2008 showed that socializing and mental exercises have very similar effects in terms of improving brain functions. It follows then, that physical exercise done in company with others will have added benefits.
The Bible makes many references to our physical health and tells us to look after our bodies, i.e. 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. Similar ideas are found in 1 Corinthians 3:16 & 17; 2 Corinthians 6:16. It seems fitting, then that S-T-R-E-T-C-H into Spring will take place at SPPC during Lent, the season when we reflect and take stock of our spiritual lives, often by using a physical discipline to keep us on track.
So there it is, Thursday mornings at SPPC, an opportunity to honour God in body, mind and spirit.
Gladys is not the cat at the top of this blog. She is a member of SPPC, a one-time competetive water-skier and an avid golfer. Recently she learned to play the ukulele
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