The Quest Newsletter Archives


				Welcome to The Quest, a newsletter intended to inspire and inform those interested in experiencing optimal well being in body, mind and spirit. For archived newsletters and more information, please see my website at www.deborahlow.com. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * April 2004 In this issue of The Quest: 1. The Quest Quote 2. Top 10 Reasons Why People With Arthritis Should Exercise 3. Poem by St.Theresa of Avila ~ May There Be Peace Within 4. Baby News: The Stork has Arrived! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1. Quote: Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant. ~ Robert Louis Stevenson What small thing can you do today that feeds your mind, body or spirit? 2. Top 10 Reasons Why People with Arthritis Should Exercise According to the American Council on Exercise, arthritis is becoming more and more common—and not just among the elderly. That’s the bad news. The good news is that a safe and effective program of moderate exercise can offset the pain and inconvenience of this indiscriminate disease. Unfortunately, many people mistakenly believe that exercise will worsen their disease. Not true. As is the case with many diseases, a well-rounded program of flexibility, strength and cardiovascular exercise can not only reduce the adverse affects of arthritis, but improve overall fitness as well. After getting the go-ahead from your doctor, try to include 10 to 20 minutes of strengthening, stretching and range-of-motion exercises, and 15 to 60 minutes of moderate, low-impact aerobic activity at least three days per week. Start out slowly and gradually increase intensity over time, but never exercising to the point of pain. A certified personal trainer experienced in the management of arthritis can help you develop a safe and appropriate exercise program. According to A.C.E., here are the top 10 reasons why people with arthritis should exercise. Flexibility training helps improve range of motion and reduces stiffness in afflicted joints, particularly the early-morning stiffness often associated with arthritis. Cardiovascular exercise, particularly low-impact activities such as walking, not only improves overall fitness, but also helps reduce the psychological and emotional pain that often accompanies arthritis. Exercise strengthens muscles and improves mobility, which makes it easier to perform the activities of daily living. The easier these activities are the more active one is likely to be overall. Weight-bearing exercise such as walking positively affects bone mass, helping to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis, a degenerative bone disease that is often seen in people with arthritis due to reduced activity. Arthritis can negatively affect posture, balance and coordination, all of which may be improved by regular exercise. Excess weight places additional strain on the joints, so maintaining a healthy weight is important for those with arthritis. Along with a sensible diet, exercise can aid in weight control. Exercise has been proven to help manage stress, which can take its toll on the whole body, including the joints. Because it is a chronic degenerative disease, people with arthritis often become depressed and develop a poor self-image. People who exercise, however, tend to be less depressed and possess a more positive outlook. Painful joints can make getting a good night’s sleep difficult, if not impossible. Regular exercise has been shown to improve sleep patterns and may help alleviate this problem. Because arthritis often leads to a more sedentary lifestyle, individuals with this disease often increase their risk of developing other deadly diseases, such as heart disease or diabetes. Staying active and exercising regularly is an effective means offsetting the affects of arthritis, as well as the risk of developing other lifestyle-related diseases. 3. Inspiring Peace Within May today there be peace within May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be.... May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith… May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you... May you be content knowing you are a child of God... Let this presence settle into our bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, and bask in the sun… It is there for each and every one of you ~ St.Theresa of Avila 4. Baby News My apologies for this newsletter being a little tardy, but I have been getting acquainted with the newest member of our family! Reese Madeline was born on March 12^th and weighed in at a healthy 8lbs 1oz. She is doing great, already growing out of her newborn clothes! Meanwhile, I’ve been immersed in diapers, the realities of sleep deprivation and books on ‘how to whisper to babies’—while they wail back at you! Thank you for your support and especially your baby tips. Keep them coming! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Please submit your comments or questions by replying to this email at deborah@deborahlow.com. I look forward to your feedback.