Live Whole Health #326: Use it or lose it

Have you ever heard someone say, “use it or lose it?” This basically means that if you don’t use your skills or abilities, they start to wither away – just like a plant wilts if you forget to water it.

Think about it

• If you learn a new language but stop practicing, your brain can forget the words.
• If you take guitar lessons and never pick up a guitar again, you might only remember one song…bad.
• If you go through on-the-job training and never use what you learn, it’s like the skills never stick.
• Even your vacation days work this way. if you don’t use them by the end of the year, poof! They disappear.

Don’t lose your mind!

Keeping the brain active is extremely important. Putting together puzzles, solving puzzles or even playing memory games can help your brain stay sharp. Think of your brain as a superhero; these activities are like his daily exercises, which keep him strong to make decisions and remember things.

Use your body too!

Just like your brain, your body needs exercise to stay healthy. Movement helps keep your muscles strong and your joints flexible. As we age, staying active helps us stay independent, such as being able to carry groceries, climb stairs, or play with our grandchildren.

Fun examples

Good ankle movement can help you stay balanced. Imagine trying to stand on one leg while brushing your teeth!

Strong, flexible hips help you stay stable, like stepping over a puddle or squatting to tie your shoes.

Although we all lose some flexibility as we age, the good news is that it’s never too late to regain it. Just keep moving, even with small activities like walking the dog, stretching during TV commercials, or having a mini dance party in your kitchen.

So instead of losing it, let’s move it! Join me for this 12-minute chair-based joint mobility session and see what you think.