From Running to Walking

The day running became painful and I was told by my physician to take up walking I was stunned. As a child, running and other physical activity was an important part of my life. It made me feel good. But when I started smoking cigarettes in high school I lost that desire. Nine years later, running helped me quit smoking and sustained me for the next fifteen years.

Not overdoing physical exercise but doing enough and maintaining good form helps me participate in outdoor activities like walking, hiking, kayaking, and gardening. By being physically active I am better able to maintain a healthy mental and emotional balance in life.

I remember watching Mary Decker on TV run in the Olympics and I was envious. I was surprised to read in Arthritis Today (Nov-Dec 2015) that she thought her injuries were due to over-training, but today thinks they make have been related to arthritis. She finally listened to what her body was telling her and retired from running in 1999. An earlier diagnosis might have helped ease the depression that went along with her having to retire from the sport she loved. According to this article she now enjoys other activities, including hiking.

Being physically active is critical to some people. After a physically active day it is nice to relax with Maine Warmers’a microwave heating pad. An extra large Back Warmer relaxes stiff muscles, is versatile, and can be used to relax tired feet (the body parts I feel most at the end of the day). The discomfort is likely due to some arthritis, and heat stimulates circulation and increases flexibility.

A gluten-free diet keeps inflammation from arthritis in check and makes me feel better. For gluten-free recipes see the Main Warmers’blog.