The Physical Anchor

     Our fourth and last in our series on the four anchors is the physical anchor. The physical anchor focuses on our physical health and well-being.

The Physical Anchor

      For the Ironman athlete in particular we need to remember that the goal is to balance our four anchors. Ironman training may actually be out of balance although we have previously discussed how to weave Ironman training into the other four anchors. Next week, we will further explore how to integrate the anchors.

      The main objective of the physical anchor is to develop a healthy and fitness lifestyle for you and your family. Physical activities need to be fun and enjoyable in order to make them part of our daily routine.

      Talk to any older person you know and you will find that they uniformly value their health above almost all else. Money and possessions don’t even get included in the conversation. Promoting a healthy lifestyle for your children and family is one of the best guarantees of success and happiness through life

      Positive physical health affects virtually every aspect of life in a positive manner. Even a small amount of daily exercise can be tremendously beneficial. In addition to making us feel better and giving us more energy, positive physical health correlates very directly to positive mental health. .

      Several of the aspects of the physical anchor include diet (nutrition) and exercise. Dr. Joe Maroon in his book The Longevity Factor identifies aerobic development, strengthening, flexibility, and balance as physical aspects for positive physical health. Accordingly, our physical efforts should be directed at developing these areas.

      Just like the other anchors, the physical anchor is always a work in progress. Moderation and consistency over time is the best method for keeping the physical anchor strong and secure. The trick is to learn how individually we can integrate our physical aspect into our daily lives on an ongoing basis.

      The growing rate of obesity in our society, particularly child obesity, is strong evidence that in the hustle and bustle of modern society our physical health gets largely ignored. Accordingly, if we do not consciously work to include physical activity in our daily lives we by default ignore this vital aspect.

     Our positive physical health and fitness can also positively affect the other aspects of our lives. Good health enhances our family and social relationships, professional achievements, and our spiritual connection.

To your health,

David