New Year's message: “You can do it too”

Tuesday 01 January 2019

Whether it’s running for election or running marathons, Anthony Lewis hasn’t let the stroke he suffered ten years ago stop him from setting his sights high and pushing himself to the limit.

As a result of the stroke, Ant now suffers with a condition called aphasia which means he struggles with speaking, reading and writing, but it has no impact on his intelligence.

However, this and the other effects of the stroke haven’t stopped Ant writing or staying physically active. 

As the new year begins, Ant has some words of advice about finding the motivation to both look after and challenge yourself – and how the two are closely linked…

“Do you have a busy life?
At work and at home. Anxiety? Worried? Health, busy work and life balance.
Try slowing down.
Are you tense because you are stressed?
Physical effects include high blood pressure, even stroke.
emotional behaviour effects include tiredness, alcohol, and poor concentration.
A response to stress.
Your work to Change it.

Pictured: Anthony Lewis trialling his specialised Orcam glasses.

exercise, eat well and improve your relaxation.
Try football, netball, gym, squash, bike, run, or walking.
If you are running, start with 3 miles, 5 miles… half marathon?
Or a triathlon participant?
Walk or exercise during lunch hour.
Drinking water.
Traffic is very slow, bicycle to and from work each day.
Perfect.

Pictured: "Traffic is very slow, bicycle to and from work each day. Perfect."

The health benefits of yoga.
It’s a challenging. I find yoga hard at Les Quennevais Sports.
It stretches the back, hips and hamstrings.
Side angle, and spinal twist. Final relaxation and peace.
Savasna has numerous benefits, including:
Lowered blood pressure.
A decreased heart rate.
Slowed rate of respirated.
Reduced occurrence of headache.
Relief from fatigue and insomnia.
Reduced nervous tension.
Relief from anxiety and panic attacks.
Increased overall energy levels.
Increased productivity.
Improved concentration and memory.
Clear-headedness and a sense of focus.
Heightened self-confidence.

Pictured: Ant says there are "numerous benefits" for your physical and mental health once you start doing yoga.

It’s a positive experience.

I am happy because it’s Christmas and New Year.
And, for January 2019… More fitness? It is challenging but worth it.
You can do it too.”