Healthy Aging
Changing health and physical function through the lifespan is a non-negotiable part of being human. Lucky for us, another fact of life is this: we can have a profound impact on our experience of these changes by exposing our bodies and minds to the benefits of exercise. With the right lifestyle, including the right challenges to our bodies, human beings can maintain an extremely high level of physical functioning into their eighth, ninth, or even tenth decade of life.
Lifestyle Change
Adopting a more active lifestyle can be daunting. In modern times we are bombarded with information from all angles about the new best exercise routines, the best diets, etc., etc. How can you make sense of it all and pick the best option for you?
Our goal is not simply to make movement a part of your day, but to identify types of movement that enrich your life all on their own. Movement is not a means to a lower body weight, bigger muscles, or a certain body image. It is a way to find joy.
Our bodies are designed to move – it’s how we interact with the world. Your physical activity should not simply strengthen muscles and bones or improve joint health, it should make you happier. Therein lies the secret to lasting change.
Specialized Fitness Needs
If you’re nervous about becoming more active due to health issues, you’re not alone. Many people require a higher level of expertise when it comes to exercise prescription. Whether you’re dealing with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, Parkinson’s disease, or another health condition, we have the skills to show you how to be active safely.
Persistent Pain
The ever-growing body of pain science literature continues to point to one structure playing a central role in everyone’s experience of pain: the brain.
When you’re in pain, it’s because your brain has collected all available data and has decided your body may be in danger. This decision is often a sound one. Your brain is well intentioned, and does its best to operate in your best interest. By generating pain, your brain ensures activity is avoided and damage is prevented.
Unfortunately, your brain will not always be right. You may not be in danger at all, but nonetheless, you’re suffering from pain.
Over time you end up moving less, avoiding activities that might make things worse. The physical pain is then joined by emotional distress. Frustration ensues. Why am I still in pain? Shouldn’t my body have healed by now? Why can’t I get a straight answer about what is wrong with my body? Will I ever feel like myself again? Millions of people dwell on questions like these every day.
Understanding what happens to the body, including the brain, in a state of persistent pain is tremendously powerful. It is where we will start, and it will be your first step in healing. A gradual, individualized reintroduction of movement and activity will follow. Everyone’s journey will be unique.