Anticipating several hours on a plane, I proposed a double session of exercise for the day preceding. A work out class followed by yoga would be the perfect antidote to a day of sitting.
“Oh, by the way, Nancy, my car is being detailed. Can you pick me up at the car wash? Then we can grab a cup of coffee prior to going to the gym.”
Nancy needed no persuasion. We invited Noreen whose need for companionship dissolved her reluctance to commit to two hours at the gym.
Coffee and talk filled the first hour. When it became apparent that we would not make the exercise class, more coffee was ordered. Did we intend to ignore the time? Yoga faded off the agenda.
We always bring our own fun to the classes so the discomfort of working out does not dissuade us. But the stress of 2020 followed by personal loss in 2021 demands self-consolation. On this particular day, laughter was needed to bridge unbearable grief. Physical exercise would have to wait.
Let’s tell people we met to go to the gym; no one needs to know that we never got there, I proposed.
Alas, Noreen confessed immediately to her daughter who obtained just short of a legal contract guaranteeing her presence in class the following day. It is good to have accountability.
A few sessions of exercise and yoga have left me feeling stronger and with less pain, assuring me of the benefits of physical exercise. But following the months of pandemic restrictions, my friends and I are once again enjoying companionship, laughing and talking maskless, sharing hugs and tears. On this day, soul exercise was needed.
Yes, I blame it on Noreen. Thank you.
It was exactly what I needed. Thank you girlfriends. It was fun playing hooky with you.
Nothing beats coffee with friends with lots of talking. Exercising maybe not our bodies but surely our brains!!
You made the right choice that day!!