We don’t need convincing of the physical benefits of aerobic exercise. It’s now accepted that we’re mentally healthier, too, if we get outside regularly, especially in a northern latitude. But did you know that joining a group to get that outdoor exercise can increase the benefits even more?
Harvard researchers have found that people with at least 5 unrelated social ties suffer less cognitive decline as they age. The problem with ensuring those ties is that Boomers, as a generation, are not well connected to their communities. They work a much larger number of hours every week and have longer commutes than previous generations. They get their entertainment from TV, rather than going out. Only about 30% belong to a church or other faith community. When they retire, they lose what Bolles and Nelson call “automatic relationship generators� (school and work relationships.) Staying connected to communities outside of your immediate family requires attention and some effort.
McKinsey research declares that by 2015, 51% of Boomers will live alone due to death and divorce. Only about half of those people will have other close family ties.
Walking with a group like the Toronto Power Walkers can, therefore, have tremendous benefits beyond fitness. Staying engaged in a wider world keeps mental powers strong and interests expansive.
This week, while walking (and breakfasting), I heard about a memoir that sounds very interesting and that I would likely not have heard of otherwise, a recap of a lecture on the connection between nutrition and depression, the concerns associated with being an expert witness in a particular field, and discussion on employability and age. My world was broadened, my cognition was fortified, and my heart, lungs and legs were strengthened.
Thanks, gang!