A Morning Walk -by Kristen Hartman
“A morning walk? Really?” This was my recent internal response to my physical therapist’s suggestion that I walk in the morning since the afternoons are so hot in the summer. This was not an outlandish request as walking does help my sore hips. HOWEVER, my internal dialogue has been intense.
I used to be a morning walker, years ago. Met with a friend every weekday for several years, and we enjoyed our time together. Then a move disrupted that. Fast forward a few years, new area, young child, and a dog. Again, really enjoyed the solitude, or the chance to give the dog a good walk. Walked mostly alone, but was very consistent. More years passed, another new neighborhood. Now it was imperative to walk the dog several times a day. I did it mostly happily, except for the days I wore a long raincoat over my bathrobe! I’ll admit, some days, I would fantasize about the time that I did not have a dog and could lounge in my PJs over coffee and computer games! Unfortunately, that time did come.
But today, again several years later. UGH. A morning walk. I want to be leisurely, drink my coffee, meditate, read the paper, play my games. Oh, so many excuses are flooding my head. “Oh yes, that sore hip. Too sore to walk today. Oh, the mosquitoes, ugh, need to put on bug spray. Oh, I have an early breakfast date with friends, surely no time to walk before that.”
Resistance to change. Oh yes, part of aging is practicing being adaptable. Also, I have had an opportunity to review some of my priorities. So, I will get out there, as many mornings as I can. If you see me, be sure to wave!
Although growing up in New Jersey, Kirsten has spent her adult life in Colorado and New Mexico. She has worked in the oil industry, city council as a legislative aide, as a massage therapist, and as a Real Estate Broker. Her most recent career as a Geriatric Care Manager drew upon her many work experiences and knowledge. In retirement she enjoys gardening, biking, volunteer work and being with her family.
