From the Editor
Along with a thousand others, I braced myself to run into the Atlantic Ocean on New Year’s day. The air and the water were both a balmy 43° and similar scenes were simultaneously being played out on several beaches up and down our coast. It’s kind of a local’s twist on a toast to the New Year. For many and for myself, it’s tradition. I chose Ocean City because I like to challenge myself to run the 5k just prior to taking the plunge.
Shortly before the race, I stepped in a shop on the boardwalk to warm up a bit. Another customer saw my number bib and asked if I was running. I told her I was and polar plunging as well. She seemed stunned and proceeded to ask me why I would want to do that. A simple enough question, yet one I never really pondered before. I just did it.
I admit I was ill prepared this year. Everything hurt, especially my aging knees as I huffed and puffed my way down the boardwalk. I thought “This is horrible, why am I doing this to myself? Maybe I should turn around halfway. I’m getting too old for this!” The thoughts ran through my mind just as someone at least ten years my senior passed me, while kindly encouraging me to keep going. There goes that excuse!
I hung in there and crossed the finish line. But please don’t ask me my time. Shortly afterwards, I stood barefoot on the beach. My feet were numb before they even hit the water.
The excitement got me through it. The atmosphere felt like a party as we all waited for the signal to go. As the masses rushed into the waves, there were plenty of screams, laughs and photos taken. I only went in up to my knees and I kept my hoodie on. I applaud the brave souls in bikinis and creative costumes.
As I shivered and made my way to my car I understood why I did it. It defies logic. It’s both nuts and memorable. But most of all it’s just fun and a commitment to start the year off living out loud with an active lifestyle.
With all our resolutions to exercise more, and lose weight or inches or gain muscles, we put a lot of pressure on ourselves at this time of year.
My resolution is typically just to live a healthy lifestyle. But I used to beat myself up if my actions didn’t align with my goal. I was an “all in” or “all out” kinda girl. For example, either I went to the gym five days a week or I gave up. I realize now that not every day or even week is going to be as I plan. Sometimes I blow it. But as long as I can pick myself up and try, try again I believe I will be alright. Resilience and consistent effort are attributes I’ve come to value greatly in all areas of my life.
Many of us add weight loss and fitness goals to our New Year’s resolutions. In this issue of Shore Local Newsmagazine, we are excited to introduce our new fitness columnist, Bonnie Miller of Somers Point. With 30 plus years of experience, she knows what it takes to achieve and maintain fitness. Check out her new column on page 26. Also, leading nutritionist, Nancy Adler shares what it takes to find the right weight loss program for you. Be sure to read her column on page 16.
We are excited for all that 2020 will bring and are honored to share our highlights and positive stories with you. Wishing you a Happy and Healthy New Year!
Peace & Love,
Cindy
