Good health was again the topic at the recent Rotary Meeting held on Thursday, January 31, with two separate presentations – the first by local fitness instructor, Louis Price, and the second, a very important announcement by the Anguilla Health Authority.
Guest speaker, Louis Price, spoke about Taking Responsibility for our own Health and Fitness, and by doing so, avoiding having to use the services of the Anguilla Health Authority. Mr. Price advocates three times the Letter S -- Stamina, Stretching, and Strength. If we are proactive, we can slow the aging process.
Stamina. Stamina refers to cardiovascular fitness. As little as one-half hour of vigorous exercise three times a week can show a huge difference in a very short time. “Exercise at a level of exertion that allows you to work up a sweat but still be able to talk while moving.” Mr. Price recommends cross-training. Focus on a variety of activities like swimming, walking, and cycling. Good cardiovascular health will give you extra energy.
Make the time. Take the time for yourself, or your body will force you to take the time -- in the form of illness.
Stretching. Stretching for at least five minutes will improve your overall flexibility. Stretching relieves physical tensions that result both from emotional and physical stresses. Hold the stretch position for about 30 seconds. A good overall stretching before you sleep will help reduce morning aches and pains.
Strength. Wear-and-tear is inevitable as you age. Because muscles overlap your joints, it is important to keep the muscles toned so that they can support the joints. Toned muscles will help to increase the mobility of your joints so that they work well without pain.
When involved in a fitness program, don’t compare yourself to others – only to yourself. Whatever you do is a step in the right direction! But it is important to take that first step!
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Anguilla Health Authority. Visiting surgeon, Dr. Randy Zuckerman from Cooperstown, New York, spoke briefly about some of the plans already in motion with the new team at the Anguilla Health Authority. Dr. Zuckerman will return to Anguilla in March with a team of surgeons from New York who will bring with them all the equipment necessary to provide laparoscopic surgery at the local hospital. The team of surgeons will provide surgical services to patients in Anguilla, and will leave that equipment here to benefit Anguilla. Local physicians will also be trained in this type of surgery for the benefit of the Anguillian population.
Laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery or keyhole surgery, is a technique in which operations in the abdomen are performed through small incisions as compared to larger incisions needed in traditional surgeries. Advantages are less pain, shorter recovery time, and reduced blood loss.
The new team at the AHA is already making giant strides in following through with the changes and improvements that they have promised the people of Anguilla! It is hoped that this program will be only the ground floor of a very important program that will continue for years to come.
Left, guest speaker, Louis Price, thanked by Rotary Club President, Seymour Hodge.
Left, visiting surgeon, Dr. Randy Zuckerman, with Rotary President Seymour Hodge.
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