Water is an essential resource we take for granted, yet it is one of the most important substances on earth. All plants and animals must have water to survive. Apart from drinking it to survive, people have many other uses for water.
I have always loved the water. I love to swim and find my most productive time is at the pool where I can think, learn and heal.
When I was struck with a Brain Tumor in November 2014, I needed strong chemotherapy to fight cancer. I was lucky…..it worked, but the chemo left me with bilateral foot drop and nephropathy in my hands and feet. As time moved forward, I have gained strength, and as a result, am gaining confidence and function.
Early in my rehab, I was offered water therapy as part of the rehabilitation plan that was designed by my team at HealthSouth. In those early days, when I was worried about my future, I found water therapy calming and therapeutic.
Initially, I needed help to get in and out of the pool due to weakness. Lucky, the rehab center had a pool lift that helped get me in and out safely. The pool was also kept at a temperature that was therapeutic for those who had arthritis and other joint conditions that improved with warm water.
Today, I am finished with formal therapy, but continue with water aerobics as my ‘go to’ exercise. I go to Central Park Pool in Plantation, FL. where I meet a group of women and men of all ages for our water aerobics classes. Many have had severe and life-altering medical challenges that have found positive outcomes from water aerobics. It is truly a community as we support each other and welcome newcomers to our class. Our instructors, Sylvia, Sandra and Marina guide us through the exercises with motivation, support, and fun.
I feel the most normal when I am in the pool as I can do the exercise that continues to help me heal and know that I am safe. I am grateful to live in South Florida as I can do these classes year-round.
The photo above is my water aerobics class. See if you can pick me out of the picture?
If you have or someone you know has a condition that is impacting their lifestyle, suggest they try water therapy, swimming, water aerobics, or other forms of water exercises. Most instructors know how to modify exercise routines to meet a wide array of conditions. Water can decrease pain, help heal a number of issues and allow one to reach their highest level of function. If you live in an area where temperatures vary look for a facility that offers an indoor pool. Many of these programs may be covered by your insurance!
Please feel free to share this post with those who might benefit. Here is a link from Healthline to the benefits of swimming. https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-swimming#benefits
Get in the pool!
