How Do I Become Motivated to Live a Healthy Life?

Adam Bornstein

Today, I am honored to have my son, Adam Bornstein, appear as a guest blogger. Sharecare cited Adam as one of the top 10 influencers making a difference in the world of fitness.

The world of fitness is one of perception. Some people look at a gym and see machines, ellipticals, and televisions. Others look at it and see a chore and burden. While many see a judgmental and uncomfortable environment.

When I look at the gym I see none of that. I don’t notice the equipment, the people, or the swanky (or nasty) amenities. Sure I have my preferences, but ever since I made fitness a permanent part of my life the gym—or any exercise for that matter—has been filtered through a special lens: Opportunity.

Exercise is an opportunity to live longer, become healthier, and be better. It’s a chance to boost confidence, inspire others, and experience an instant pick-me-up on a bad day. It’s mentally stimulating. It’s socially percolating. And it’s emotionally cleansing.

What does this have to do with motivation?

St. Regis, Rome- A Special Treat

St Regis Rome Lobby

When Mileage Plus seats don’t conform completely to your cruise plans, it may be necessary to stay an additional night. This can be an irritating extra cost. Our son, Aaron, came to the rescue. Last fall, he kindly donated some of his hotel points so that we could indulge in a luxurious stay at the St. Regis, Rome.

“Awesome” was my first response. Not only was the lobby beautifully appointed, the hotel was also conveniently located. When we arrived mid-morning, we were treated to coffee and tea and a plate of cookies. While sipping our drinks, we relaxed for a few moments and planned what we wanted to visit.

Herculaneum- Catch a Glimpse of Roman Antiquity

On the way to Herculaneum

After departing the cruise ship in Naples, we joined a tour heading for Herculaneum. The bus drove past mountains.We were looking forward to seeing a prime example of a Roman city form the 1st century CE.

History

The Greeks created this community decades before the Common Era. When Vesuvius erupted in 79 CE, Herculaneum and nearby Pompeii were completely destroyed. Pompei was a large commercial town, benefiting from river trade. Herculaneum was a coastal resort town that was frequented by wealthy Romans. As a result, the houses were spacious and included panoramic views of the sea.

Pompeii was buried under a layer of volcanic ash and stone whereas Herculaneum was affected by a flow of volcanic mud.

5 Ways to Improve Exercise Motivation

Children Playing Different Sports
Courtesy FreeDigitalPhotos.net

On a sunny day in May, what is happening in city parks across America?

Children are running about. Some may be flying a kite while others are riding their bicycles. A few might be enjoying the playground equipment.  In a designated area, small groups of kids are engaging in competitive sports such as soccer, baseball, or basketball. All of these kids are having fun while being active. It is an essential part of childhood. Activity is not seen as a burden.

On an overcast day in January, children in northern climates might be outside sledding, ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, making snowmen or immersed in a snowball fight.

Once again, outdoor play is part of their daily routine. They are delighted to be participating. In most instances, they made the choice to be active. Over time their skills increase and they feel a sense of pride in their accomplishments. It’s rare to hear moans and groans. Instead the area is filled with laughter and excitement.

So what happens when children mature into adulthood?

Family Milestone- Graduating College

CU- Business School Graduation May 2013
Coors Event Center

Thirty-two and a half years ago, my husband and I started our family. The birth of our eldest son, Josh, became the first of many family milestones. Within a span of ten and a half years, three additional sons were born. Each child created a unique set of special occasions. Some of these events were captured on film while others are delightful memories that remain housed in our brains.

Our trailblazing son, Josh, always led the way since he was the oldest. He set the pace for the other boys to follow. Whatever he experienced was always a “first.” He never had to play “second fiddle” to any of his siblings. His brothers consider him lucky since he never had to wear hand-me-down clothing. Some of his clothing choices were not fully appreciated by the others. Multicolored shorts and over-sized shirts immediately come to mind. Josh, on the other hand, felt that his brothers had the advantage since Ira and I became more flexible as the years went by.

Calling Upon Couch Potatoes to Become Fit

Biking around Lake Dillon, Dillon, CO 1999

In Monday’s blog, I focused on the recent CDC survey that highlighted the number of inactive Americans. According to the survey, 80% of Americans can be labeled as “couch potatoes.”  Under most circumstances, people would prefer to fall within the norm. In this instance, it certainly is nothing to brag about. It’s time to make a choice.

Which type of lifestyle is your ideal? Couch potato or fit?

Working Together to Become Fit

“A family that exercises together stays together.”
Bornstein Family- 2006 Caribbean Cruise                       after a visit to the gym

Last week, I shared some of my thoughts about lifestyle choices in Choice-Being Fit. In order to write that blog, I had to acknowledge one of my personal shortcomings in a public forum.  It would have been much simpler to maintain the status quo and not share my story. Despite the obvious reasons to stay mute, I opted to reach out to my followers. With your support, we can work together to become fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

For the last few years I have wavered back and forth like a pendulum on a clock. Diving full force into a new routine or diet would only last a few months before it was shelved. My motivation levels declined and my new program slowly lost its top priority. The pendulum swung back only to move once again when my motivation levels returned.

Why?

My priorities became muddled.

Shouldn’t a fit lifestyle have the same priority as brushing one’s teeth or maintaining daily hygiene?

Yes, but for the majority of Americans, “being fit” is not considered important.

Guest Blog- Nerdy Book Club

Today, I wrote a guest blot that was posted on The Nerdy Book Club website. I have followed this community of bloggers for over a year. They share book reviews, reading projects, and support reading culture. Over the years, the group has critiqued and discussed a plethora of amazing books and different teaching methods.  It was challenging to pick a unique topic.

I decided to write about why primary teachers should consider using Holocaust picture books in their classrooms and the steps they should follow when selecting the books. The messages found in these Holocaust picture books are powerful and at the same time suitable for a younger audience. I sincerely hope that this posting will encourage people to check out this genre. The title of the posting is Notable Holocaust Picture Books Illustrate People Making a Difference.

Taormina- A Lovely Place With a Troubling History

Catania, Sicily, Italy Port

Taormina is a favorite excursion for many cruise ship passengers. It is located on the east coast of the island of  Sicily, Italy, about midway between Messina and Catania. While Taormina may be a lovely place to visit, its history is tarnished by the Inquisition.

Choices- Being Fit

All of the hoopla generated by the launching of Adam’s new book, Man 2.0 Engineering the Alpha: A Real World Guide to an Unreal Life has made me think about what it means to be fit. Being fit requires a conscious choice to live a particular lifestyle. On the surface this sounds easy. But if it was that simple, obesity would not be a nationwide health issue and the plus size clothing manufactures would be out of business.

What causes some people to pursue a lifestyle filled with activity and a healthy diet while others are content being couch potatoes and making poor food choices?