Why Valet Parking, Elevators, And Slip-On Sneakers Might Be Bad For Your Health

Jean and I spent last week at One Ocean Resort and Spa in Jacksonville, Florida, and it was terrific! The service included valet parking and staff that was always available to accommodate every little whim. Although we enjoyed the pampering, at this stage in my life, I have found two things to be true: 1. I am unwilling to pay for 5-star service. 2. Convenience can be detrimental to my health.

Question: Do you own “slip-on” sneakers? Because you don’t have to tie the laces, you don’t have to sit down, stand up, or bend over to put them on or take them off. How easy is that?

Question: Do you park as close as you can to the store (Even parking next to a junker that might ding your car when opening the doors) when you go shopping?

Question: Do you take the elevator when you can use the steps?

Question: Do you sit to put on clothes rather than standing or bending over?

Question: When on vacation, do you take a walk on the beach or sit on your balcony to watch the sunset?

In this stage of my life, I have found that most of the time, “easier”, “convenient”, even being “pampered” can be bad for our overall health. If you can’t touch your toes standing up without bending your knees, if you get out of breath walking up a few steps, if you get dizzy when you stand up, you might want to pass on the convenient, easier, and comfortable things.

I have found that I feel better, think better, and even look better when I take advantage of every opportunity to stand up, bend over, walk up a set of stairs, or get in a few extra steps.