“I do something every day, and throughout the day, as there is always opportunities to focus on moving my body in an energising and beneficial way.
By Patricia, 64, Liverpool
After experiencing a mental breakdown and a breast cancer diagnosis, Patricia turned to Infinite Tai Chi and Nia dance to help ease the stress and aid her recovery.
More than 10 years later, she has gradually increased the amount of activity she does – to feel healthier, stronger and fitter: “I feel better now, in my 60s, than I ever did in my 30s.” She is now a teacher of Nia and Infinite Tai Chi.
“I wasn’t good at sports when I was young, and I would suggest it’s about finding something you enjoy as this helps you stick to it. Along with the Tai-Chi I discovered Nia Fusion Fitness, a form of dance, martial arts and healing arts, and found this calming, uplifting as well as energising; and I lost 3 dress sizes in the process!
“I do something every day, and throughout the day, as there are always opportunities to focus on moving my body in an energising and beneficial way. Whether this is standing in a queue in the Post Office, I am consciously moving my feet or hands, or when I am out walking, I think about where and how I place my feet to ensure I am supporting my body in a good way.
I have a daily, seven-minute workout that I do each morning and immediately feel invigorated. The more I do the fitter I get, which gives me the ability and desire to do more. That feeling of well-being inspires me.”
The lymphatic system relies on movement to function well and keep the immune system strong – I haven’t had a cold or a bug for years.
Patricia’s advice: “Sometimes it may not be easy to get going but it’s worth it. With a little effort we can make this a habit. It’s never too late to begin anything and it’s one small step at a time; the better you feel, the better you want to feel.”
Betty hasn’t always been the positive and confident person that we see today. Being more active has taken Betty on a remarkable journey of empowerment, achievement and personal success. In 2014 Betty was very overweight. She was unhealthy and struggling with a number of other health issues.
Being active has completely transformed Debi’s life. In the past she was the self-confessed ‘poster girl for being inactive’ and now she’s quite literally a ‘poster girl for being active’!
James’ back and knee pain can make it hard for him to get active, but by sticking to low impact activities, like swimming and cycling, he’s able to enjoy an active life without injuring himself.
Jayne finds karate really helps with her anxiety, as it makes her feel stronger, more relaxed and in control. She’s also made some great new friends and now has much more belief in herself.
Paul didn't realise how important being active was until his son was born and he had the responsibility of a young family to look after. Now at 38, he's feeling happier and more fulfilled than ever and can run around with his children without getting out of breath.
Dan was never very sporty, but swimming helps him manage his diabetes without medication. Being more active has given him the strength and confidence to get out there and try new things.
