...in the moment
Yesterday between classes, I stopped to sit for a few minutes in the park. The sunny scene was full of action: a young child wobbly but determined to learn to ride her bike, an elderly woman flanked on either side by loved ones helping her slowly make laps around the park, and a group of preschool kids squealing with delight as they took turns on the slide.
As I soaked in the sunshine and the playful energy, an older aunty walked by, smiled to me, and said, "悠閒！" - capturing the relaxed, leisurely feeling of this moment filled with so much activity.
It made me reflect on how naturally, eagerly, and joyfully we moved as children. And how later in life, movement is so deeply treasured as a lifeline to independence and maintaining our abilities.
Yet, for many of us, somewhere in the middle chapters of our lives, movement can become a chore. We focus on "shoulds" – should exercise more, should lose weight, should look a certain way to find approval from others. It can feel the opposite of “leisurely” when we hear about “crushing it in the gym” or “no pain no gain.”
The beginning and end of our lives can offer valuable lessons for moving in the middle of life. Children remind us of the pure joy of movement, while older adults often appreciate the freedom and autonomy that physical activity provides-- both seemingly more focused on experiencing the present moment to the fullest.
This is why I love Zumba so much. The upbeat music and the supportive community make it a celebration of movement, a reminder to tap into that childlike play. And as we dance, we focus on what our bodies can do, appreciating our strength, flexibility, and coordination. For that one hour, movement isn’t a chore to do, it’s the joy of being in the moment!
Want to share the joy of movement with your little ones? Join me for my Family Moves by Katie classes on January 21st and February 4th.
Want to experience the relaxed, "悠閒" vibe of the golden generation? Try my Golden Oldies Groove online – a 20-minute disco, swing, and pop dance workout designed to get you moving and grooving.
Wishing you joyful movement and presence today!
Keep moving!
xx,
Katie
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