We all know it’s difficult to feel very good about life when we don’t feel physically well, and we know that exercise will increase our stamina and strength. But sometimes we’re hesitant to begin. Maybe we think we are not athletic enough, strong enough, or young enough. Maybe we’re afraid of our own limitations.
In reality, though, even a little more attention to physical well-being can enrich our lives. Some level of physical activity, whatever our circumstances allow, may be just what we need.
Of course, we all have different capacities and interests, and exercise can take many forms. Find something you can do—something you enjoy doing.
A simple walk can clear your mind and open your eyes to the beauties of nature. Planting flowers, raking leaves, and sweeping the front porch can all be forms of exercise. Playing tag with children is good for the soul; laughing with friends is good for the heart; even walking out to get the mail can refresh the body and boost the spirit. Do your best to move your body, and you will be surprised how much you strengthen your soul at the same time.
The poet William Wordsworth, who was known for his long walks, wrote:
While on I walked, a comfort seemed to touch
A heart that had not been disconsolate:
Strength came where weakness was not known to be,
At least not felt; and restoration came
Like an intruder knocking at the door
Of unacknowledged weariness.¹
You may never know how invigorating exercise can be until you start. Something is better than nothing. You might discover, to your delight, new strength and restoration you didn’t even know you needed.
Program #4044
¹“Summer Vacation,” The Prelude, Book 4, in The Complete Poetical Works of William Wordsworth [1921], 259.