“Out and About” Scuba diving, diet fads, and self-care

Living near a lake is a wonderful way to spend your golden years, although those golden years might at times seem more bronze than gold. Being physically fit is a big plus, because one is able to participate in more activities than someone with a few aches and pains.
Back in the seventies, I took up the sport of SCUBA diving. I had more energy back then and was still working, so I was in pretty good shape. I was also about fifty pounds lighter. I worked hard at developing my diving skills and eventually attained the certification of Rescue Diver. As time went on, I drifted away from diving and as a result, put on some extra poundage. I also retired, so I had a limited budget also became more involved in volunteering. Living on the lake, I’m sorry I didn’t keep up my diving certification and keep my SCUBA equipment.
You’re never too old to get involved in SCUBA diving. Here are some tips I’d like to share with you, if you have ever considered taking a dive:

• Get certified. Look for certification programs from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (padi.com), or Scuba Schools International (divessi.com).
  • Talk with your doctor. You need to be in good shape to dive. Arrange for a checkup.
• Test your passion. Many dive shops offer half-day experiences in pools or shallow water. I did this and was immediately hooked on the sport. A good dive shop will offer classes.
  Next Monday, January 15, is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, a Federal holiday, which means that the post office will be closed along with many other government offices.
  With the holidays now behind us, many of us are doing what we can to lose some of those pounds that caught up with us over Christmas and New Years. There are many “Diet-Fads” out there. Most of which can be a real challenge. Probably the best thing we can do is just eat properly. A good breakfast is important. A cup of coffee and a few donuts do not constitute a healthy breakfast. Passing up a custard-filled long john is very difficult.
  Donuts are delicious. They’re fried, sugary, and often coated in chocolate or another tasty icing, but as delicious as donuts may be, we shouldn’t be eating them for breakfast. Donuts typically contain a lot of sugar. A single donut can have upwards of 20 grams of sugar, which is more than the recommended daily limit for adults. We all know that too much sugar isn’t good for you. It can lead to weight gain, cavities, and even diabetes. Also, donuts are usually high in calories and unhealthy fats. Donuts tend to be high in sodium, leading to high blood pressure and other health problems.
  Next time I’ll depress everyone with information on pancakes. Meanwhile, I’m going to reflect back on those days of old, when we could stop by Daugherty’s Bakery and spend 25 cents on a cream-filled triangle.
  My six final steps to “Self-Care”:
• Trust your instincts.
• Never give up on your dreams.
• Don’t be afraid to say “no”.
• Don’t be afraid to say “yes”.
• Be kind to yourself.
• Stay away from drama and negativity as much as you can.
  SHALOM
  Norm Stutesman lives in Three Rivers. He receives mail at P.O. Box 103 in Three Rivers.