THE WOMEN'S COMMUNITY FOR THOSE WHO SEEK A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE by Gayle Carson

www.spunkyoldbroads.com

There is a bunch of us out there and we are called Spunky Old Broads. Now for those of you who take exception to old you probably aren't one of us.

In this context, being an S.O.B. is one of the greatest things that could happen to you. We are fun, enthusiastic, interested and interesting, intelligent, curious and most of all, delightful to have around.

That's why we are forming virtual Spunky Old Broad clubs around the country. Because we are there for each other as well as causes who can utilize our experience and knowledge.

Old is not chronological it is a state of mind. I'm sure you know people who are young at 80 and old at 40, but remember we are spunky so we think young.

Spunky Old Broads wake up intending to have a great day. With a smile on your face and challenge in your heart, you get out of bed with a spring in your step. Of course on the other side of the coin, there are always people right after that, who are trying to get

you to step in a pile of (you figure it out). Don't permit that. They carry on with spirit and persistence.

Breakfast is next and a healthy one at that. Never skimp on finding that space. You must begin every day with enough time to eat and digest. Then you're ready to take on the day. Just be careful what you put into your mind during that period. If you watch TV or read the paper, it is very likely it could be negative and that is not what your programming for the day should be.

Now walk, jog, do yoga or spin. What ever physical activity you choose, morning is the best time to do it. If you don't have a choice, then fit it in whenever you can't even if you split it up into 10 or 15 minutes segments, but when possible, do it first thing. Exercise or physical activity increases your endorphins which increase your energy and resistance to disease which allows you to do even more. AMAZING, isn't it?

I know you have thought about your day the night before (you haven't?) and have a good idea of where you go next. Is it lunch with a friend, a matinee that came to town, an exhibit at the museum, or perhaps volunteering at a hospital or as a guide at an attraction? When people see your cheery face, they can't help but feel better or happy.

Even if you don't know anyone and want to attend that function, Spunky Old Broads know they just might meet that special someone, with whom they might develop a wonderful friendship. At any rate, there is usually a person who is great to talk with and loves the experience as much as you do.

Check the newspapers or the online social calendars to see appropriate groups and venues for you to go to. I have always found when I go somewhere as a single, I hook up with a group of people who have common interests and purpose.

Evenings seem to be the worst time of day if there is nothing special in your life. Memories come rushing back with the good times and people who may not be a part of you anymore. Loneliness and fear try very hard to take over and muddy up your thoughts. They want to discourage and get you to submit to some pretty dark places,

SPUNKY OLD BROADS ARISE.

This is where we come in if you join us, we will fill up your plate. Every month you talk with us, hear from us, interact with us and can play with us. We will plan day trips, theatre excursions, book clubs and cruises. But I digress.

Most good health comes from mind, body and spirit. Translated that means stimulation of thoughts, learning a new skill, thinking positive thoughts and awareness. For the body, it means movement, keeping active and utilizing the physical abilities you have. Spirituality encompasses who and what you surround yourself with, your entire thought process and how you

lead you life morally and ethically. All those are your interpretation as well.

So exactly what is the women's community and what is its commitment to health?

The Spunky Old Broads are a group of women, most over the age of 50, who enjoy every day because it is just that another day in which they live, love and enjoy. They eat right, play right and live right. And if some crisis occurs, as it well, they handle it with spirit and aplomb. They also have their S.O.B. community for support.