We can’t control our environment, but we can control our attitude (most of the time). Music and movement can lift our attitude and we can facilitate music and movement to lift the spirits of others. Individuals of all ages/stages/backgrounds/abilities should have an opportunity to lead their favorite exercise/music classes, or mini-music/movements (under 7-minute uplifting music and exercise movements) at any time of day, every day.) These mini-music/movements break up each day in delightful ways.
Since the Pandemic, entertainers and youth volunteers are having a difficult time connecting with elders and performing live in assisted living communities or skilled nursing facilities. To market their services, they can compose brief (under 5-7 minute) videos to demonstrate their music/movement skills and then offer their skills through distance delivery, as well as on-site.
Through a variety of exercise techniques and music, we move from a talk culture to “walk our talk,” at work, at home, and in service to others. We can learn from individuals in other cultures, such as Japan and China, where workers jump from their work desks for a few minutes of rigorous bending, stretching and dynamic movements. Exercise has been proven to stimulate brain cells (Ratey, J, MD, “Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain.”). Positive movement, combined with music (especially classical music) elevates mood, exercises the body, and keeps the brain healthy. (https://thelatch.com.au/classical-music-working-out/).
I am moving more and more from driving around in circles and sitting at the computer to priortizing family, movement and music. Care for my grandchildren has been a top priority, especially since the Pandemic, when my adult children need to earn a living and the grandchildren appreciate Grandma Sal’s attention. I share my love of movement and music with my grandchildren and elder friends/clients. One of my favorite sources of movement and music is the Conductorcise program, for which I trained with Maestro David Dworkin.
From Maestro David, I am learning that we can be conductors of our own lives.
Maestro David Dworkin, originator of “ Conductorcise”