Everyday Enjoyment

Make time to play-it refreshes the body and the soul.

Life should be fun, right? One of the best ways to enjoy it is to feel good about yourself-and that starts with activity. Jump-start your fitness level this New Year by playing in little spurts. All it takes is willingness and a smile, and wellness will follow.

If you're anything like me, a "get fit" New Year's resolution soon loses its appeal. I easily become daunted by the huge tasks. My way around it? I add activity throughout weekdays, even more on weekends, and let the really big stuff go. The result? I benefit even though I don't consider it exercise. Here are ways to energize your fitness.

Routine Fun

Transform daily routines into opportunities for good times. If you live with a dog, then put it on its leash, and head out, especially now when the air feels crisp. Dogs love to go outdoors-they need no excuse. Take a brisk circle around your block alone or with other like-minded dog owners.

A group of ladies in my neighborhood walk their pups together in the mornings. While the women talk, the dogs enjoy sniffing their way around. Everyone goes home happy and fitter. You don't have to organize a formal walk for canine fun; just throw around an old tennis ball or a stick.

Playing House

I also like to shake out the wintertime blues inside my home. Because housework nags constantly, I try to crank up my stereo for 20 to 30 minutes each day to clean up with a beat. Much to my children's embarrassment, I turn the broom, mop, or vacuum cleaner into a microphone and sing along. By keeping the cleaning to a half hour or less, I can usually knock out a room or two and still get in some quality boogie time. My heart, house, and family all reap the rewards.

Family Fervor

Although my kids have grown past the darling cherub stages, they still like to loosen up outside. We can walk to a nearby park where the long, low limbs of the live oaks invite climbing. Not only do I stretch some healthy muscles and work on balance and toning, but I also experience the childlike wonder of perching on a limb with a bird's-eye view of the world.

Beach ball Volleyball makes a great impromptu yard game too. All you need is a $2 inflatable beach ball and a sidewalk. Using the walk as a divider, we knock the ball back and forth in the air without letting it touch the ground.

Circulating in the Community

When it's hard to go cold turkey on shopping after the holidays (but my wallet insists), I take to the malls for outrageous window shopping. Canvassing every inch, I'll see what's on sale. After I make it twice around the inside, I'll allow myself to go in stores and check out the white sales. If I break down and buy something, then I have to walk it twice more. Wherever I roam, I can add energy and fitness by inserting zest into my activities. All it takes is a smile. ANNETTE THOMPSON

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jan 2004
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