VIEWPOINT

GIVING THANKS FOR ENERGY

WITH FRIENDS LIKE THESE, WHO NEEDS TO WORRY ABOUT AN ENERGY CRISIS?

JIM THOMAS
Editorial Director

AS WE approach the holiday season, we might consider giving thanks to a renewable source of energy. Here is the scenario: My legs felt as though they were pedaling through wet cement, but a quick look at the controls on the exercise bike confirmed the tension was set at “1” on a scale to 10 — the easiest setting — and my heart rate was barely nudging into triple digits. It was just one of those days in which I found myself in the gym with little energy or motivation.

AN ENERGY SHOT

At this point, my mind raced through any excuses to leave without finishing the workout. Lost in those thoughts (“Did I remember to let the dog in? Did I put the milk back in the refrigerator? Did I leave the milk outside and the dog in the refrigerator?”*), I didn’t notice that a good friend got on the bike next to me.

“Hey, how are you?” he asked.

The greeting changed my mood and my energy level. After five minutes of catching up and shooting the breeze, the pedaling became easier, even though the pedal tension jumped to “4.” The heart rate monitor shot into the “aerobic zone,” and I found the energy to complete the workout.** One conclusion: I might be able to replace my personal fitness trainer with a less-expensive friend.

YOU’VE GOT THE POWER

Another conclusion is that loved ones have tremendous power — in addition to changing our moods, they can generate energy when the battery runs low. During a time when we give thanks, it may help to acknowledge those who inspire, motivate and energize us.

At the same time, remember that a simple smile and a “Hey, how are you?” can change the course of someone’s day. Around this busy time of year, that can be a great gift. OM

* No dogs were refrigerated or otherwise harmed during the events described in this column.

** This column is in no way a substitute for accurate fitness advice.