The Art of Breathing
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Send to friend5.20.09
The Art of Breathing
Take a deep breath. Now let it out. Ahhhh! Breathing is so elemental and essential to life that we rarely think about it. There are many references to breathing in our language.
We can get in a huff, meaning that we are angry and breathing hard. There is also “blowing off steam” meaning to yell or otherwise express one's frustration. How about “blowing your lid?” This conjures up an image of a cartoon character with steam coming out of his ears, hat lifted and hair standing on end.
Some daily activities make us breath hard, like carrying groceries or climbing steps. How about digging a hole for the new landscape planting, hoeing the garden, chasing toddlers or errant dogs to keep them out of harm’s way?
But when was the last time you ran with no other purpose than to go fast? Held your breath underwater until you were about to burst? Skipped around with abandon? Or twirled until you fell down dizzy?
Falling down on purpose might not be a good idea. As we age, however, regularly working our bodies until we breathe hard is good for a healthy heart and for lifting our spirits. This can be accomplished through aerobic activity be it work or play.
I find that there is nothing quite like a walk outdoors to get my heart pumping and my mood lifted. There is always something to see along a grassy path or on an urban sidewalk. I also like to ride my bike going farther and faster using the mechanical advantages of gears and wheels on pavement.
Come outside and blow off some steam on June 6, National Trails Day. At 10 AM the Heritage Trails Park District and its partners are dedicating a newly improved section of the Miami & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Join us at Noble Township Hall, 16586 County Road 66A, 3 miles north of St. Marys. Follow the “Canal Hike” signs.
Bring the family and take a walk on the Miami & Erie Canal Towpath, visit the Auglaize Outdoors Show and help us dedicate this new section of towpath trail. The Road to Fitness 5K walk/run will be a challenge for you and your family to complete.
Come early or stay late for the Auglaize Outdoors Show from 9 AM-noon. This show will focus on outdoor activities, fitness, wildlife, conservation and education. And the cost? Take a deep breath; this is free family fun and close to home!
The Miami & Erie Canal Towpath Trail passes through beautiful Auglaize County countryside that will lift your spirits. Rain or shine join us for a breath taking experience.
Allison Brady, Executive Director
Heritage Trails Park District- Your Auglaize County Parks
