Well this has been a time, hasn’t it?
I can’t imagine there is anyone who hasn’t done some self-reflection over these last three or so months. If there is, I don’t think I’m out on a limb when I say that they are probably the people who need to self-reflect the most.
Anyway, I just thought I’d do a pretty wide-ranging post today on what I’ve learned, and what has been further reinforced for me over this time. I’m going to cover a lot here so let’s get started.
Stress is a monumental force. Even if you are good at compartmentalizing, it’s still there. It may not scream at you all the time but man does it wear you down.
Times like this are when habits that you’ve developed over time really pay off. Even if you don’t conform to those habits 100%, you are starting from a much better place.
Unconscious shared experience is real. Frequently over the past three months I’ve felt something, mentioned it, and found a number of unrelated people who have felt the same way.
It is shocking to me how many people will easily believe an absolutely bonkers conspiracy theory. (Plandemic anyone?)
Posture is really, really important if you want to stay out of pain.
Proper breathing is really, really important if you want to stay out of pain.
Shakespeare is the greatest English language writer we’ve ever had. (I’ve always known this, but rereading Othello really proves the point.)
I’ve grown an even deeper appreciation for small busineses like mine and how even relatively small purchases can really matter. In other words, take an extra minute and see if you can find something somewhere other than Amazon and please eat at a locally owned restaurant.
Leadership matters. Do I need to expand on what that means?
I believe even more strongly that people are generally trying to do the best they can but it is so very hard for human beings, as a whole, to change.
We are all our own worst enemy. Only once we realize that, can we truly make the changes we need to make for ourselves and society.
Obviously, I have learned a lot more than just these things and I am really trying to learn more every day. Not just about exercise and nutrition, but about myself, my failings, my strengths and how I can a better person.
When I tell my son that we need to learn something new every day, I mean it. It’s important and only by doing that will we continue to grow and live a full, meaningful and vital life.
Take care and stay safe.
Mitch Rothbardt, CPT, PAS Egoscue, PN2, FMS Castro Valley Fitness 2861 Grove Way 510-755-9191 Mitch@CastroValleyFitness.com