Advanced Physical Therapy - April 2021

Advanced Physical Therapy - April 2021

APRIL 2021

WWW.ADVANCEDPTANDFITNESS.COM | 970-301-3149

PROTECTING OUR PHYSICAL HEALTH AND NATURE GLISSADING IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

Last September, I did something few people have ever tried: I slid down the face of a glacier using my coat as a sled. That moment was one of the best parts of an amazing hike that I took with my wife, Renee, in Rocky Mountain National Park. We made an 11-mile circuit that day, hiking up Flat Top Mountain, then over the Continental Divide before reaching Andrews Glacier. Our slippery trip down its face ended on the shores of a glacial pond. I’ve been replaying this hike in my head all month for two reasons. First, I’d love to do it again someday. Renee had already hiked to the pond in the past with her family, but our September trip was my first time, and it was an incredible experience. We started our trip right before sunup and hiked until the late afternoon. For the majority of the eight-hour day, we were alone with the trees, rocks, and ice. We only passed one other person on the trail and saw a few others off in the distance. That total immersion in nature was soothing, and the views at the top of the glacier were spectacular. The second reason this hike has been fresh in my mind relates to environmental stewardship. Earth Day is coming up on April 22, and since 1970, it has been an annual event promoting environmental awareness and education. When the topic comes up, it brings to my mind the discussion surrounding our changing climate and weather patterns. Even during our hike, there was a vivid reminder of how quickly our local landscape can change. The air was smoky during a good chunk of

our trek because we were hiking near a major wildfire. The Cameron Peak Fire was burning just 10 miles away, and a week or two after our trip, flames from the East Troublesome Fire came within just a few miles of where we were hiking that day. Whenever Renee and I hike, we try to “leave no trace” and keep the places we visit pristine. We stay on the trails and don’t leave any trash behind. When our kids come along, we teach them the same things. On this particular hike, the terrain was pretty rough up near the Continental Divide, and there wasn’t a developed trail, but we tried walking on the rocks as much as possible to minimize our impact on the plants and wildlife around us. Hiking is one of my favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors, and I hope to be able to do it for the rest of my life. That means respecting nature and protecting my body. One of my favorite things about my work is that I can help other people get out in nature, too. When I improve my patients’ balance, mobility, and strength, I make it easier for them to get back to the outdoor activities they love, like hiking, rock climbing, skiing, and biking. If you love the outdoors, I hope you’ll join me in being good stewards of our local Colorado trails, keeping our favorite spots pristine for years to come! As always, if you need help getting back out in nature pain-free, don’t hesitate to set up an appointment with me. –Dr. Thomas Cleveland

• 1

970-301-3149

Published by Newsletter Pro | www.NewsletterPro.com

As people grow older, they’re more likely to find themselves at home with less company. If your family members live far away or you have physical limitations that make it difficult to leave the house, you may be at an increased risk of experiencing loneliness. This is why adopting an animal can be so helpful. Pets offer comfort and love, and many encourage physical activity. Integrating a pet into your life as you grow older can be just what you need to lift your spirit and keep you healthy. The Benefits of Pet Ownership A lack of purpose can take a significant toll, but the sense of duty pet owners have around caring for their animals helps them avoid this. The daily tasks of feeding, playing with, and walking your animal can help provide structure and bring meaning to your life. They also give you something to look forward to each day. What’s better than waking up or coming home to a wagging tail or loud meow? This is how pets help improve their owners’ mental and physical health. Studies also show that those who care for pets have less stress and lower blood pressure and cholesterol than their petless counterparts. You’re also more likely to maintain a daily exercise routine. FELINE FRIENDS OR CANINE COMRADES HOW PETS IMPROVE OUR HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

Humans have an innate need to be social, and without someone to talk to regularly, our mental well-being can start to deteriorate. Pets may not be the best conversation partners, but they may increase your social activity. Walking a dog to a local park every day, for example, can provide an opportunity for you to interact with other people. If you live alone, this simple activity can increase your social circle and improve your mental health. Find the Right Pet Before taking advantage of the many benefits pets offer, it’s crucial to consider which pet is right for you. Doing research can help answer important questions about which animals might be a good fit for you and your lifestyle and which aren’t. Finding a perfect match may take some time, but once that connection is made, there is nothing that will bring more joy into both of your lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a list of questions that will help guide you to the perfect pet. Take a look at CDC.gov/healthypets .

DON’T SLEEP ON THESE TRACKING DEVICES WANT A BETTER NIGHT’S REST?

table. Many track your heartbeat and movement. It’s important to keep in mind that while sleep trackers can provide valuable insights, the >Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4

www.advancedptandfitness.com

Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter