Over at Revgals Sophia says: I just got back from an 8 mile bike ride down the beach boardwalk near our home, and was struck with the number of people out enjoying physical activity. Runners, other cyclists, surfers, swimmers, dog walkers, little kids on scooters....
It's easy to lose track of my physical self-care in the midst of flurried preparation for a final on-campus interview Monday for a college teaching position in the Midwest (prayers welcome!) and the family move that would accompany it. But each day that I do make time to walk or ride my bike it is such a stress reliever that it is well worth the time invested!
So how about you and your beautiful temple of the Holy Spirit?
1. What was your favorite sport or outdoor activity as a child?
Swimming! I spent my childhood in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and everyday after school we went swimming at the Tangling Club( there was a branch in Kuala Lumpur at the time). I had a VERY privileged childhood, something I only now appreciate! I was good and enjoyed the water so much that I signed up to train and race.
2. P.E. class--heaven or the other place?
Neither really, unless we were swimming, then it was heaven! I represented the school and Essex, when we returned to England.
3. What is your favorite form of exercise now?
Err swimming ( do you detect a theme??). I also practice Tai-Chi though and that is always best with others, I love the way the movements flow together, and to watch or be a part of a room full of people who are moving together.
4. Do you like to work out solo or with a partner?
Solo, swimming is really a solo sport. Training is different though, it can help to have others to pace yourself against... I have to admit that I am a shameless show off in the pool, and love to race folk who think they are good. I can still put on a decent turn of speed, and enjoy racing unsuspecting folk, particularly young men who make a great show stretching and preparing. My favourite trick is to let them start and then to race them down the length.... it is worth it for the shocked look on their faces ( where did that middle aged woman come from? ....)
5. Inside or outside?
Either... though I currently swim indoors at a local fitness centre, it also has a sauna, which is great, I try to do about an hour of serious exercise, then stop and have a sauna, followed by a gentle session back in the pool to cool off.
There are times I forget
whose I am,
and I abuse
myself
through
foolishness and neglect.
Help me to
remember
that this skin
and these bones
are your temple,
and that you dwell
within.
Help me
to glorify you through
my body,
in what I eat,
what I drink,
and how I care for myself.
For I am your creation,
fearfully
and
wonderfully
made!
