Of course, it also means that we are only good at our chosen feat.
Fortunately, people aren’t really ponies. We do not have to be content with one trick — we can learn to jump and dance and run. We can amuse ourselves and others for many years before we are sent out to pasture. The key is cross training: strengthening the areas of our life in which we are weak, so that we are capable of performing a wide variety of tricks.
January is the perfect time to initiate your cross training regimen. It can be part of your New Year’s resolution process. In 2008, resolve to choose one activity from each of the following areas and give it an ongoing place in your life.
Activities for the Mind
If you’re reading this column, you probably already engage in mind-bending activities. This year, broaden your horizons. If you’re a reader, pick up a crossword puzzle. If you’re a sudoku devotee, finish that book that’s been collecting dust on your nightstand. For a thought-provoking read, try “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver.
Activities for the Body
Body-oriented activities tend to be well represented on the typical resolution list: “I’m going to lose 10 pounds … start exercising …go on a diet …” These laudable goals deserve a fresh approach. How about a yoga, T’ai Chi or Qi Gong class? These are less punishing to the body and great for promoting balance (both physical and emotional). For more information on local low-impact classes, call the MaineHealth Learning Resource Centers at 781-1730.
Activities for the Senses
When was the last time you gazed at the cold-sharpened stars or enjoyed winter’s hush while snowshoeing? Most of us rely on our senses for survival, forgetting that they can bring us something even better: joy. Rediscover sensory joy in 2008. Pay attention during your daily routine. Repeat after me: stop, look, listen. If relevant: taste, smell, feel. Savor your world.
Activities for the Spirit
Most mind, body and sense-related pastimes are good for the spirit. They also tend to be externally focused. Activities for the spirit are less about “doing” and more about “being.” Consider instituting a daily meditation practice this year. Complement this with gratitude-enhancing activities. Buddhist author Pema Chodron suggests creating two lists: the first should have the names of people/beings (animals count, too) for whom you are grateful; the second will identify people/beings for which you feel compassion.
Lengthen your lists by participating in socially-aligned mind, body or sense activities. Join a book group with friends. Take a moonlit walk with your kids. Connecting with others while cross training is a guaranteed way to grow your blessings.
Resolve to make 2008 a cross training year. Learn to jump and dance and run. Your one-trick pony days will soon be over: You’ll spend less time in the pasture and more time in the ring.
Dr. Lisa Belisle is a family physician and advisor for the MaineHealth Learning Resource Centers. She lives and practices medical acupuncture in Yarmouth. Contact her through her website: www.drlisabelisle.com.