It Has Nothing to Do with Age

How To Enrich Your Life

2013-05-15T08:34:00.000-07:00

"Happiness is neither virtue nor pleasure nor this thing nor that but simply growth. We are happy when we are growing."– William Butler Yeats

In my book titled “It Has Nothing To Do With Age “I wrote about a group of people 65 years of age and older who pushed their physical, mental and emotional limits to unfathomable levels. I have gained numerous new learning’s from that project. From my insights, I prescribed seven prescriptions to combat declining life expectancy as a result of obesity, high blood pressure, stroke related issues etc. Prescription number three, one of my inner truths, is extremely important for longevity . Prescription number three reads “Enrich your emotional life by making physical contact, having friends, sharing interests, and learning about others by becoming part of a new group.”

This past week-end demonstrated that point. Approximately a year ago, Linda and I met this young couple and son at our community swimming pool. The Avasarala’s are originally from India. Madhu and Farah are both runners and talented in many ways. Madhu is an ultra runner and Farah is very speedy on the shorter distances (she also plays tennis, swims and bikes). Linda and I have learned a lot about their culture, eating habits, life philosophy and more about Thomas Paine. This past weekend we were introduced to two of their Bay Area couples –friends.

None of us know how our story ends. Remember life is a journey. And there is no need to control or attempt to predict the end point. Life is somewhat like going down the fast flowing stream (rafting) using oars and attempting to avoid boulders and other hazards while experiencing pleasure and excitement. Make sure your ratio of success is greater than the ratio of hazards by your choices. Just remember to use your tools to your advantage and to stay afloat as long as possible.

My new friend Mike Keller is another example of meeting new and interesting people. He is one of the main characters of my second book regarding mental toughness. As I get to know him, I will learn more about his identity and his life space. His life space, for example, includes: college football, professional football, fly-fishing, horseback riding, motorcycles and the creation of a new spring professional football league. So it is very clear that my life continues to be enriched. And like I said in prescription three, my lifestyle choices facilitates how I’m aging.

On Monday, Linda, her Arabian Nails, and I did about a 5 mile trail ride and run. I recovered from last Saturday’s Quicksilver trail run and therefore want to do more heat training for this coming Saturday’s trail run for juvenile diabetes at the Cronin Ranch.

On Tuesday, Tony, Linda Nails and I did a 6 mile or so trail run and ride. Today, Linda, Nails and I ,this morning, are going to run and ride again. This Saturday Tony and I have entered a 10 mile run for Juvenile diabetes at the Cronin ranch. Join us.

Remember; keep moving, laughing, smiling and deep breathing.

Friendship,Quicksilver,Bo and Woody

2013-05-13T09:33:00.001-07:00

Friendship, Quicksilver, Bo and Woody

Friendship... is not something you learn in school. But if you haven't learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven't learned anything.
Muhammad Ali

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_friendship.html#5WBsyxIZG7Vy5uyq.99

Thursday, Tony and I did our last the 5 mile or so tapering run/walk. We talked about high school, girls, football, present-day politics, and the media. What is said (a rule)on the trail ,stays on the trail.

Friday, Linda, Tony, Jonathan, Tara, Madhu, Farah and I left for the Quicksilver trail race in San Jose. I was happy to learn that Madhu, at one time worked in the Bay Area, and has entered the Quicksilver 50 mile race numerous times. Unfortunately, Farah is still recovering from an injury and will not participate in the run. Because it is Madhu’s 55^th birthday this month, he facilitated and organized our participation. Tonight, we’re going to meet at Bellagio’s for a pre race dinner.

Ride and Tie competitors Jonathan, Tara, Tony, Linda and I are lodging nearby the race site. If it wasn’t for Tony, I might not have become involved in this special sport nor developed a friendship with him. I first met Tony at the ride and tie event at Mount Hamilton in 1997. And my first ride and tie event, in 1997, was at Quicksilver.

It might’ve been around 2003 or 2004, when I first met Jonathan. Guess what? I met him at the Quicksilver Ride and Tie. He came all the way from Southern California to participate in the event. I’ve stayed at Tara and Jonathan’s home many times over the years. Jonathan and I have also partnered up for a number of ride and tie events including the World Championship in 2008 and the Swanton Pacific 100 miler in 2008 (incidentally we won it). Jonathan comes up and runs the Way Too Cool 50 K. with Tony and me. Incidentally, a few years ago, Tara also came up to run the event as well.

Tara, Jonathan, Tony and I have entered the 25K. So I am looking forward to getting together with friends and especially participating in a trail run race. The four of us, I believe, are in different age groups (40,50,60 and70)for this run unless they stick me in Tony’s. That has happened before and Tony got a big kick out of that.

Tony, in the 60-99 age groups, broke 3 hours, came in 2^nd, got a medal Saturday and was pleased.

On the way to San Jose, Linda and I met with Mike Keller the All-American from the University of Michigan and former Dallas Cowboys NFL player. Mike is the man responsible for setting up and implementing the professional Spring Football League which will debut in 2014.

I told Mike that one idea for my book is to interview Wolverines and Buckeyes who played for coaches Bo Schembechler and Woody Hayes. If you’re not familiar with those two names, I suggest you Google them. My idea at this point, is to talk about their “ mental toughness “ on the football field. I’m also interested in exploring how “mental toughness” served them later in life. Those two coaches battled and in what were called by the media “the ten year wars( 1969-1978). ”

Remember my friends, keep moving, laughing, smiling and belly breathing.

Mental Toughness, Reason, Friendship and Football

2013-05-08T08:29:00.001-07:00

Part 2

Frank on the left

I played football and baseball in my backyard, in front of my home, on vacant lots and at the schoolyard. I was pretty good and often played with older kids. My main competitor in elementary and junior high school was Tom Smith. He was bigger and better than I was. He went on to receive All State honors, played under Dan Devine at Missouri in a few Orange Bowls, became a principal but unfortunately was killed in an automobile accident.

It wasn’t until high school, that my athletic achievement was noted and rewarded. As a freshman, in high school, I played on the reserve football team. I didn’t play my sophomore year because I was getting into trouble. I did play in my junior year until I broke a heel bone in my right leg (a non-football injury). As a result, I didn’t get to play in the Detroit city league championship. At that time the winner of the public school, my high school Denby played the winner of the parochial school De LaSalle in the Goodfellow game at Briggs Stadium (it is now called Tiger Stadium).

Denby high school was a football powerhouse in those days. In my senior year, we were undefeated and gave up two touchdowns during the season. In the first half of every game we were in the lead and I played right guard on offense and middle guard on defense. Coach Rutherford would substitute in the second half and I was moved to left guard on offense and remained at middle guard on defense. We were planning on playing Redford high school the public school champions of the west side of Detroit, when our athletic director, Mr. Rhem discovered that one of our players (who later went on to play at the University of Michigan and become a lawyer) didn’t get an official physical examination. As a result we had to forfeit games in which he played. So are season ended. That year, 1957, I was voted All City and awarded a football scholarship at the University of Detroit. I love football, the physical contact, the camaraderie, and being a necessary component to make a whole.

One idea for my book on mental toughness is to write about Bo Schembechler ‘s All Americans and to compare them with either coach Duffy Doherty’s Michigan State University Spartans All Americans ; or special forces combat veterans; or female ultra runners ; or female triathlon athletes. I am interested in finding out and writing about mental toughness during competitions and after. Suggestions are welcomed.

Yesterday, Tony, Carrie and I did a short 5 mile or so tapering trail run along with dogs Porter and Jade. If I could only bottle the energy of those dogs, running could be so much different. Carrie is dealing with a new relationship and residence issues. Thank goodness for PEA the neurotransmitter.

Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.
Albert Camus

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_friendship.html#ibVULHJflPFWY6Tj.99

Remember to keep moving, laughing, smiling and rhythmic breathing.

Thomas Paine,Reason,Friendship and Football

2013-05-06T08:53:00.004-07:00

Saturday was a day of tapering. So Digger, my wire haired terrier and I hit the trail. This time I ran my favorite, 10 mile or so, trail in a counter clockwise direction. The only humans I encountered were James Anderson and then Betty Smith on the trail. I made sure to stop at every creek crossing so that my dog would be hydrated. The one advantage of running, with no humans, is that I can think about such things as my next blog posting. Including today’s run; my total for the week was somewhere around 50 miles.

On Sunday, Chris, Tony, Madhu and I ran a short 6 mile (10 k) tapering run. Tony and Madhu raced ahead while Chris and I talked about Gil Brandt, Michael Keller, the Dallas Cowboys and other football stuff. After our run, at my home, we continued talking about Thomas Paine and his contributions to our independence, rational thought and freedom. Madhu suggested, as home work, that we read some of his writings sip some wine and discuss.

"All national institutions of churches, whether Jewish, Christian or Turkish, appear to me no other than human inventions, set up to terrify and enslave mankind, and monopolize power and profit."

Thomas Paine

One reason that I’m enjoying interviewing Michael Keller is because football is my favorite sport followed by ride and tie and then running. And thinking back to my elementary school years, I remember liking sports both playing and reading about them. I read stories by John R. Tunis (about 64 years ago) that included: All American, The Kid from Tomkinsville, High Pockets, Rookie of the Year, and The Kid Comes Back. But I don’t remember the specific content of these books. However, my impression is that they’re about individuals who were overcoming something. Overcoming obstacles resonates with me. And they succeeded and were heroes on top of that.

More to Follow

My Lucky Day

2013-05-03T07:50:00.001-07:00

"We cannot live for ourselves alone. Our lives are connected by a thousand invisible threads, and along these sympathetic fibers, our actions run as causes and return to us as results."– Herman Melville

Yesterday, Alpha arrived at my home early in the morning for our trail run. He finished building a ramp for Hope, his border collie, so that she can navigate the stairs. Unfortunately she is not doing too well. He told me that he wanted to run short today because he’s tapering. Short, for Tony, means a run of about 6 miles. I told him that I wanted to run longer today because of my rib injury. This hurt interfered and caused me to miss a few days of running.

So we started out by walking, one of my favorite loops which is roughly, 10 miles. We walked and talked and then I heard a noise. I turned around and here comes Madhu running down the trail with only pepper spray in his hand. No water for him today only peppers spray to ward off the wild animals. Madhu, incidentally, organized the San Jose Quicksilver trail run on the 11 Th of May. Alpha, Jonathan, Tara, and I are running the 25K. Madhu’s wife Farah also planned on running the 25K but withdrew last week because of an injury. Madhu has entered the 50 mile trail run and hopes to complete this tough trail run in about 10 hours. He is celebrating a 50 something birthday this month which is why we are partying with him.

On a side note, I met Tony a.k.a. Secretariat and a.k.a. Alpha at a ride and tie in 1997. At that ride, I was introduced to ride and tie and decided to enter a competition. As a result, my first ride and tie was at Quicksilver in 1997. My last Quicksilver ride and tie competition was in 2008. A couple of years ago during a ride and tie competition at Quicksilver, Tony and I went up and ran part of the course. So I’m looking forward to returning next week even though I know about the difficulty of the trail and hot weather conditions.

Back to our run and walk. Madhu turned off to another trail while Tony and I continued on our loop. We talked, talked and ran. I was telling Tony this story about interviewing Mike Keller and a conversation about the mental toughness of Jack Youngblood and Jerry Rice.

I told him that Jack Youngblood would likely continue running into a tree to see if he could move it while Jerry Rice would run around the tree. Mike Keller said it was Jack’s job to punish people and Jerry Rice’s job to avoid people. Tony said Jerry Rice was still tough because he had to catch balls thrown toward the middle of field and then he would get hit. We all agreed that Jerry Rice was mentally tough.

I just stopped running and as I was telling Tony that story, I looked down and saw my black glove that I had lost about three weeks ago. How is that for coincidence? It must be my lucky day. For your information, I run (in the cold) with one black glove and one white glove. I am now matched again.

Franks Glove

At the creek crossing, I told Tony that I was to go further (another 4-5 miles) and he could join me if he liked. He declined and we intend to run again on Sunday. For this last loop, I ran, focused on my breathing since I had no one to talk to. Today, Linda Nails her Arabian and I are going on a 10 mile ride and run. She likes to ride and so it is.

Remember to keep moving, laughing, smiling and rhythmic breathing.

Beat the Heat

2013-05-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

"It's not what you are, but what you don't become that hurts."– Oscar Levant

A week from Saturday, on May 11, I am running a 25 k at Quicksilver in San Jose with youngsters Jonathan, Tara, Alpha. As the weather is changing from hot to hotter, it’s important that we get acclimated to the change in temperature. This means conditioning in and for the heat. There is no other way of training for running in the heat without prior hot weather training.

Any training or conditioning having to do with the heat means the following: hydration, electrolytes, sunscreen and appropriate clothing. For me, that means taking an extra water bottle and making sure that I have enough Succeed salt tablets in addition to my Gatorade or Cytomax. I also make sure to use sunscreen especially around my nose and ears. If being in the sun for a long time, I’ll wear a hat that looks like I’m in the foreign Legion for my extra sun protection.

Some of the issues or health problems associated with not getting enough liquids, especially for people 65 and older and overheating and could increase the risk of include: 1. underlying diseases such as congestive heart failure, diabetes, and chronic productive pulmonary disease. 2. Trouble walking or moving around. 3. Dementia or other problems with thinking skills. 4. Overweight or obesity. 5. Age-related changes to the skin including reduced function in sweat glands.

According to Blue Shield of California Newsletter, Spring/Summer 2013, avoid drinking cold drinks because they can cause stomach cramps .Further, medications may also cause dehydration or affect the ability of the heart, blood vessels or sweat glands to respond to the heat. And stay away from alcoholic beverages because they actually cause you to lose more fluid.

For me, I really notice the change in temperature prior to acclimating to the heat. I remember going up Maine Bar (a trail that Jonathan dreads) and simply having to stop during my uphill climb. When I have to stop and get my breath, I know that I’m not acclimated. Hopefully, I won’t have to stop and get my breath during our Quicksilver trail competition because there is plenty of elevation change. However, during the run I will quickly know whether or not I’ve had enough prior heat training.

Remember, keep moving, laughing, smiling along with rhythmic breathing.

Michael Keller ,Dallas Cowboys and Mental Toughness

2013-04-29T08:15:00.002-07:00

"Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better."– Samuel Beckett

Why did a 6’4” 225 pounds athletic football and basketball player, who ran fast, at Catholic Central high school in Grand Rapids, Michigan, question why the University of Michigan granted him an athletic football scholarship? To his amazement, he wondered “Why were they recruiting me, a guy from Grand Rapids, when they had all these high school all- Americans to choose from?” He added “I never felt good enough.” And stated “I never thought that I’d see or get on the playing field, but I hoped, that I would at least; make the traveling squad before I graduated.”

Michael Keller

How did this insecure, doubting kid from a small high school in Grand Rapids, who started out on maybe the six string on the U of M freshman football team, who didn’t think he was good enough to play at this level of football, become a three-year starter 1968-1971; won second team Big Ten honors in 1971; become one of the 40 football players selected to play in the college all stars versus Dallas Cowboys in 1971; and become drafted in the third round, the 64 th pick selected overall , by America’s team, the one and only Dallas Cowboys?

Would you be interested in finding out more about Michael Keller? I’m currently interviewing him regarding my “Mental Toughness “project.

Rhythmic Breathing,Meditation and Health

2013-04-26T09:33:00.000-07:00

"A person who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new."– Albert Einstein

Wednesday’s post was about the benefits of rhythmic breathing while running. Thursday’s trail run was about 13 to 14 miles . During that run, I incorporated rhythmic breathing. I noticed the following while doing the run: 1.My heart rate seemed significantly lower but more elevated than Alpha’s. 2. I tripped more than Alpha. I believe, in part, the tripping had to do with paying more attention to foot strike on exaltation than lifting my foot off the ground. The last trip, I landed on the left side of my chest, it still hurts. I still believe rhythmic breathing is good however; I have to pay more attention to the trail while running.

On April 16, 2013, the Wall Street Journal had an article about meditation. According to this one primary care physician, “I recommend five minutes, twice a day, and then gradually increase meditation.” This doctor suggested that patients start easy and then work up to about 20 minutes of meditation twice a day for conditions that includes insomnia and irritable bowel syndrome.

It is believed that integrative medicine programs are including meditation in significantly more hospitals and clinics in our country. Research has found that meditation can lower blood pressure and help patients with chronic illnesses cope with pain and depression. In another study published last year, meditation sharply reduced the risk of heart attack or stroke among a group of African Americans with heart disease.

At Beth Israel Deaconess, meditation and other mind-body therapies are slowly being worked into their program of primary care. Meditation is being used as a complement to traditional medicines. It is clear that “when you breathe in a very slow, conscious way it temporally lowers your blood pressure “said Josephine Briggs director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine which is part of the National Institutes of Health.

Recent research found that meditation affects molecular changes affecting the length of telomeres, a protective covering at the end of chromosomes that gets shorter as people age. The people in the study also showed improved mental and cognitive functioning and lower levels of depression compared to a control group. Current government funded research is also exploring meditations effect on dieting and depression.

Eastern philosophies, have been around for a long time, and can be a good adjunct to Western medicine. This is not a new idea, but it appears, that these philosophies are gaining more respect and credibility. If you haven’t taken a meditation or yoga class, I suggest you consider it. Don’t forget,in the meantime, to keep moving, smiling, laughing and deep breathing.

Yoga,Natural Breathing and Running

2013-04-24T08:45:00.001-07:00

"Calmness is the cradle of power."– Josiah Gilbert Holland

Budd Coates believes that that if proper belly breathing can be attained, then the likely hood of injury can be significantly reduced for runners. His reasoning is as follows: It’s acknowledged that when the runner’s foot hits the ground, that force of impact is equal to at least 2 to 3 time’s one’s body weight. Further, the impact of stress, on that foot, is greatest when it hits the ground at the beginning of an exhalation. Physiologically speaking, this occurs because when exhaling, the muscles associated with the diaphragm relax, and as a result, that creates less stability in the core. With less stability, there is a greater potential for injury since the runner is always landing on the same foot at the beginning of an exhalation .So one side of the body continuously absorbs the greatest impact of force, causing it to become increasingly vulnerable to injury.

Coates teaches rhythmic breathing, to runners, in an attempt to rectify this potential injury problem. Rhythmic breathing can assist with attention to foot strike. If you’re familiar with yoga, you have learned how to belly breath. Belly breathing, in principle, means that you are allowing for the maximum volume of air intake to take place in your chest cavity. According to Hinduism, this type of breathing creates a pathway to deep centeredness that allows for mind, body and spirit connection. This breathing technique can benefit runners. Runners can focus on breathing in order to gauge their running effort. They can also create calm and deal with emotional stress better.

Coates teaches a five counts or 3:2 pattern of breathing applied to running. Briefly, inhale for three steps (count) and exhale (count) for two steps. By following this method, a runner can pay attention and then more easily alternate foot landing .Briefly, inhale to the count of 3 and exhale to the count of 2 .Make sure you breathe through your nose and mouth at the same time and alternate foot landings.

Today, on our 10 mile or so trail run, I taught Alpha this technique. After a number of miles he got distracted by two female runners. He was pleased, with himself, as he caught and passed them. Meanwhile, I was behind all three of them employing the Coates method. I bet he had more fun than I did.

While breathing, it is suggested that one should minimize distractions and place focus on breathing while you’re learning this method. I agree. I discovered that when focusing on breathing, I could not think about anything but. Also, I had to really pay attention to where my foot was landing because the trail had many roots and rocks. For more detailed information consult Runners World, April, 2013.

Remember to keep moving, laughing, smiling and deep breathing.

Heat Training and the Greatest Runner

2013-04-22T09:39:00.000-07:00

"Our real blessings often appear to us in the shape of pains, losses and disappointments, but let us have patience and we soon shall see them in their proper figures."– Joseph Addison

The cover of April, 2013 edition of Runner’s World has interesting articles that included the following: Lose 5 Pounds the Right Way; Eat Better; Train Smarter; Burn More Calories; Go All Out; Add Power , Fitness And Speed; Rest or Run? Road Or Trail?

For me I had no problem yesterday in choosing to run trail. I was joined by Alpha, Madhu, and Chris at Cronan ranch. On May 11, a group of us are going to compete at Quicksilver in San Jose as well as celebrating Madhu’s birthday. Cronan was selected because of the difficult terrain which included frequent elevation change, little shade, and one very hot and sunny day. Heat training, at this juncture, is important for the upcoming Quicksilver event. The temperature there can be brutal at that time of the year.

Because of the hot temperature change, I wore a heart rate monitor, carried 4 water bottles as well as Succeed salt tabs. We started our run about 8:45 but could have started earlier. Alpha ran about 10 miles but had to go home to deal with an unrelated issue. The three of us ran roughly 14 miles. Being concerned about the heat, I checked my heart rate monitor frequently as I did not want my pulse to be over 140 beats per minute. Even though my heart rate was under 140, I still perspired a lot, walked for part and was pretty tired on the hills. However, young pup Madhu not only didn’t sweat very much but claimed that he did not work very hard today. He’s lucky and fortunate. I told Linda I was concerned about being tired. She replied “I’m not worried; he’s young enough to be your son.” Okay, I get it.

All in all, I got the beginning of my heat training. Hopefully, the temperature will remain warm so that I can get acclimated to the heat.

On another note, Runner’s World magazine had an article about the greatest runner of all time .Some of the names included: Jesse Owens, Emil Zatopek, Roger Bannister, Herb Elliott, Bill Rodgers, Paula Radcliffe, Usain Bolt etc.

Ann Trason

Tim Twietmeyer

Shame on the writer for failing to acknowledge neither Tim Twietmeyer nor Ann Trason for their achievements. By failing to mention these unparalleled ultra runners (of Western States fame); I seriously question this man’s credibility and knowledge especially when he included such people as Ryan Hall, Dean Karnazes and Pheidippides in the honorable mentions section.

This man is entitled to his opinion. However, it is not based on reality, so you can take it with a grain of salt.

Join Alpha and I at the UC Davis Cardiology Rehab Department Wednesday, the 24^th for my mental health – physical health presentation. In part, I’m going to tell them to keep moving, smiling, and laughing.

Do You Want To Run 100 Miles? - Part 2

2013-04-19T09:50:00.001-07:00

"Inspiration follows aspiration."– Rabindranath Tagore

Once I got selected, in the Western States lottery, I entered John Medinger’s 50 mile plus the Epiphany trail run, the Jed Smith 50 mile trail run, the Way Too Cool 50 K., and the American River 50 mile trail run. Also, I put in 50- 95 miles per week of running to get ready for the event. Thus, this was my training. A friend, Tom Christofk, told me “Running 50 miles is not like running 100.”

Karl Meltzer has won more than twenty-nine 100 mile trail races, stated” You haven’t experienced ultra trail running until you complete 100 miles. It’s so much harder than 50, almost like three 50 milers, and it throws everything at you.” Other quotes found in Trail Runner, October, 2010, issue 68 include “it was the best of times and the worst of times.” “Agony and ecstasy.” “A study in contrasts.” “100 miles of heaven and hell.”

Issues that come up during the hundred mile run include: despair, self-doubt, hallucinations, tears, hard falls, blisters, mashed toenails, sunburns and projectile vomiting. In fact the 2002 Western States Endurance Run Participants Guide calls attention to the following: 1. Renal Shutdown 2.Heatstroke/Hyperthermia 3. Snow Hazards 4. Hypothermia 5. Wildlife Hazards 6 Low Sodium and Chloride Counts 7. Altitude Sickness 8. Muscle Necrosis 9 Overuse Injuries 10. Common Fatigue and the list go on. One quote that I like is by Chuck Gabri “Eat like a horse, drink like a fish and run like a turtle.”

Well, I found out that running 100 miles or 200,000 steps (if one mile =2,000 steps) was a unique experience to say the least. I encountered many things for the first time. It is true that running 50 miles is quite different than running 100. However, I had three terrific pacers (Chuck Mather, Bill Johnson and Jerome Beauchamp) and a super crew (including my sister Bev) that helped immensely. A more complete description of the trials and tribulations of this event can be found in “It Has Nothing To Do With Age.”

Over training can be a detriment especially if one goes into this event injured. So it’s not uncommon for the athletes to be either tired or over strained before the start of the event. Most importantly, when competing, all that takes place between your ears cannot be underestimated. Runners have plenty of trail time as well as alone time. During the trail time, one encounters many emotions and many emotional changes and thinking challenges during the day and night. As a consequence, mental toughness is most significant. In considering running a 100 miler, make sure you are doing it for the right reason.”

Within the past two years, after much thought, I have weaved together motivational concepts, that I think, pertain to ,define and comprise mental toughness .I am thinking about writing a second book employing mental toughness as the main theme. I will keep you posted. In the meantime, if you’re thinking of running 100 miles you might consider: Angels Crest 100, Hardrock 100, Javelina Jundred or H.U.R.T. 100 or 95 others.

Yesterday, Carrie, Alpha, the two dogs Jade and Porter and I ran about 10 mile trail run on the Western States trail. The plan for Sunday is to run at the Cronan ranch. Chris, Alpha, Madhu and I will cover about 15 miles. Remember to keep smiling, laughing and moving.

PS I am presenting a paper to the UC Davis Cardiology Rehabilitation Department on April, 24^th. You are invited, join Alpha and I.

Boston Marathon -April 15,2013

2013-04-17T08:07:00.000-07:00

"Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood."– Marie Curie

Can you believe what happened near the finish line of the Boston Marathon on Monday? What a cowardly act by an individual or group of individuals. From initial accounts, it appeared that most of the people killed or injured were spectators-family, friends, or volunteers. Apparently, the marathon runners were not seriously injured from the two blasts. It’s that old saying that “it’s not good to be in the wrong place at the wrong time “that seemed to be true Monday.

What is puzzling is why someone would want to injure these innocent individuals. It is more problematic to attack the nation’s oldest running race. Certainly this prestigious event warranted much publicity and drew thousands to its venue.

The quick response in helping victims is applauded. There were many heroes (mental toughness) who jumped in and did the right thing. One issue that bothered me is the amount of media attention that these tragedies generate. The media doesn’t have a problem in presenting information even if it’s false or simply a rumor. There is too much publicity or reinforcement and suggests and give “importance” or “notoriety” to these evil characters,

There are too many mentally sick individuals with easy access to harming devices. I have confidence that our government, with all its resources, will locate the perpetrators and likely discover and give clues as to the motivation of these deranged people. There can be no sound justification for this perpetration. In this case I’m OK with an “eye for an eye.”

The Boston Marathon will continue as well as this country. The world can be a dangerous place, as evidenced by the nuts that surface, however, having all the guns in the world doesn’t make it safe or can protect you My heart goes out to all those injured and I hope their recovery is quick . I feel terrible for those that needlessly lost their lives.

On a happier note, Alpha and I ran about 10 miles on our trail run Tuesday. We both registered for the Western States Memorial Day training run. We also entered, for the second year, the 10 mile JDRF (juvenile diabetes) run on May 18 at the Cronan Ranch. The posted picture is from last year’s race at the start, Can you recognize us?

Remember to keep moving smiling and laughing.

Do You Want To Run 100 Miles ?

2013-04-15T11:15:00.002-07:00

"There is a sense of exhilaration that comes from facing head-on the hard truths and saying, 'We will never give up. We will never capitulate. It might take a long time, but we will find a way to prevail.'"– Jim Collins

Ann Langstaff

Dennis Rinde

Chris Turney

Tony

In 1997, the decisions that I made resulted in a major change. At that time, I was entering the endurance world, trail riding and practicing full-time as a psychologist in the Bay Area. Early in the year, I entered an endurance ride at Mount Hamilton in San Jose. At that time, I was introduced to an event called ride and tie. I became interested in that sport and then began trail running. Because of this sport, I met trail runners, some of who became friends, and some, I found out, were world-class runners. People like Tony a.k.a. Alpha, Chris Turney, Linda Raposelli, Ann Langstaff, Jonathan Jordan, Russ Kiernan, Dennis Rinde, Jim Howard, Tom Johnson, Mark Richtman and Tim Twietmeyer to name a few.

Linda Raposelli

Mark Richtman

Jim Howard and daughter Sara

Tom Johnson

Tim Twietmeyer

Jonathan Jordan

Frank

Because of the sport and the necessary trail running, I learned about trail running and various trail events. I learned about nutrition (power bars, Cliff bars, turkey and peanut butter sandwiches); hydration (Gatorade, Cytomax, Gu20); and running gear (Asics, New Balance, Mizuno, Brooks) and orthotics.

I also learned about the Western States 100, one-day trail run, 5 k’s , half marathons, marathons, 50 K’s, and 50 milers. When I decided to compete in the Western States 100 ,my trail running consisted of a few 5 K’s, one half trail marathon, the Maui marathon, one 50 K., and five years of ride and tie competitions.

To be continued

Yesterday, Alpha, Chris, Carrie and I ran the trail. We started for my home and headed toward Dead Truck. They proceeded to Maine Bar and then back to my house for about a 7 plus mile trail run. I wanted to run longer so I passed Maine Bar and headed towards Brown’s Bar and then returned to my home for about 14 of 15 mile trail run. Once home, I enjoyed the three I’s –ice, ibuprofen, and ice cream. What was not to like about yesterday? In any event I recommend moving, laughing and smiling.

Proper Nutrition,Hydration and Exercise

2013-04-12T13:42:00.002-07:00

"The man who makes no mistakes does not usually make anything."– William Connor Magee

On Thursday, Alpha, Farah and I decided on running a 15 K. trail run. Madhu added another 10K by running from his home to my mine. Once together, we started running towards Browns Bar. I began in the lead but within a mile and a half was passed by my friends. When I reached Brown’s bar, Alpha was there waiting for me. I asked him how long he had been waiting and he replied “not long.” We then proceeded on the trail. When we reach my home, Madhu and Farah were waiting for us. Madhu said he was trashed and later revealed that he doesn’t eat breakfast prior to training runs. Alpha stated “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Perhaps, just perhaps Madhu might do better by eating breakfast before going on a 25K trail journey. I found some nutrition tips, based on research, in Trail Runner, October, 2010, issue 68 that you might consider.

Let’s start with 1. . Beet juice a. This is good for high intensity exercise. B. The abundant nitrates turns into nitric oxide in the body which may improve blood flow to working muscles and make exercise less tiring .c.The nitrates can also lower blood pressure and acts as a powerful antioxidant that mops up free radicals

.2.Yerba Mate a. This tea has an 85 mg of caffeine compared to 135 mg of coffee. B.Consuming caffeine before or during exercise stimulates the central nervous system and assists in working harder and longer. C. This tea promotes antioxidant activity against free radicals.

3. Tart Cherry Juice a. Good for faster recovery. B. The photochemical anthoycanins helps eliminate inflammation and muscle cell damage this speeding up recovery.

4. Milk a. Helps improve the ratio of lean body mass to body fat.

5 Coconut Water a. This is one of the best natural resources of potassium and other essential electrolytes that helps deal with muscle cramps.

6. Hemp milk A. This is a natural source of a heart- healthy, anti-inflammatory omega fats. B It provides about 10% of the daily requirement for iron.

7. Kefir a. This drink is laced with probiotics and helps regulate the digestive system and strengthens the immune system.

All right, the weather is getting warmer and you might consider taking advantage of these beverages. Even if you’re not running faster or whatever, you are treating your body well. Alpha, for the past couple months has been drinking coconut water after his trail runs and Carrie likes her chocolate milk. I intend to experiment with beet juice and see what happens?

Today’s plan is for Linda to ride her Rush Creek Arabian, Nails while I run on the Western States Trail. Remember; keep moving, laughing and smiling.

Rick Pitino,Luke Hancock,U of M Wolverines, Fab 5 and Running Barefoot

2013-04-10T10:49:00.002-07:00

"Think wrongly if you please, but in all cases think for yourself."– Doris Lessing

Congratulations to Rick Pitino, Luke Hancock (MVP) and the Louisville Cardinals basketball team for their win Monday night over the Michigan Wolverines. The game was exciting; however I didn’t care for the officiating. In my opinion there were two bad calls against Trey Burke (when he blocked a shot and when he was called for fouling a three point shooter) and a no call when Louisville blocked the shot that should’ve been called goal tending. These three events I didn’t like. Even the Fab five’s presence (Chris Webber, Jalen Rose, Juan Howard, Ray Jackson and Jimmy King) wasn’t enough to pull out a victory. In 2002 and 2003 these 5 University of Michigan freshmen starters played for the national championship but unfortunately lost both years. Go blue.

How many of you have considered or even experimented with barefoot running? Ever since “Born to Run” came out, running without shoes became more popular .Supposedly, running barefoot will bring out the natural runner. Who doesn’t want to be a natural runner? Some reasons to run barefoot: 1. Running barefoot with a forefoot strike has only a third of the impact of running in a shoe compared to heel striking in which the collision of the heel with ground generates a significant impact per Dr. Daniel Lieberman, no relation. 2. High heeled – heavily cushioned running shoes produce a 56% more dangerous torque at the hip and 38% more torque at the knees. 3. Cushioned shoes interfere with your ability to perceive what’s happening beneath your feet and reduce your proprioceptive and tactile sensitivity 4.When you’re running barefoot you are more likely inclined to land on your forefoot. 5. Running on the forefoot allows you to use your metatarsals, your arch, and your Achilles tendon, quads, hamstrings and glutes muscles. 6. Barefoot running or using a lighter shoe results in economy by reducing your workload by up to 5% .7. And, by keeping your stride short, your legs can whirl around more quickly with minimal resistance and braking action.

Advice, if you’re going to transition to barefoot running: Start out very slowly. When running up hill, run on your forefoot and when walking, grab the ground with your toes in an effort to flex and strengthen your foot. Make sure to rest, ice in order to recover. Take your time and relax because this is a slow process. This process can easily take three months or longer to make the transition. Be smart.

I have considered changing to minimalist shoes. However, I see very few runners incorporating the minimalist shoe while running on the Western States Trail. When I do see that runner, I generally stop them and ask them questions about their shoe. Where I run and train, trail conditions are uneven with plenty of rocks and roots in my way. Periodically, I stub a toe or even trip. When I do that, I start thinking about what I would feel like running in the minimalist shoe. My thoughts are generally I’m glad I have a well cushioned shoe. Source: Trail Runner, October, 2010, issue 68.

Kevin Ware , Mike Rice ,the University of Michigan and the Basketball National Championship

2013-04-08T09:03:00.002-07:00

Kevin Ware and Mike Rice -Part 2

"To have that sense of one's intrinsic worth which constitutes self-respect is potentially to have everything."– Joan Didion

Recently, I heard a TV interview in which Kevin stated he was attending last Saturday’s Final Four tournament with this team. He even said that he has started rehabilitation (putting pressure and using crutches) and hopes to play for his Louisville basketball team next season. Hopefully, he will.

Kevin’s teammates have reported that they want to win the national championship for him. That goal can be classified as an ego goal (to score more baskets than the other team). For the ego oriented player, success is demonstrated by superiority and winning; although one can win without trying too hard. On the other hand a task goal is one in which intrinsically motivated players strive to reach the task goal which reflects personal improvement, effort, mastery and skill learning.

When, a player motivated by personal factors and the sheer pleasure of playing the game this is referred to as intrinsic motivation. On the other hand extrinsic motivation is when the player is motivated by external rewards in the activity as a means to an end. Illustrations like trophies, recognition, championships, and money come to mind. Being intrinsically motivated and being task oriented are largely within the control of the player. The best combination for success is task orientation alone or in combination with high ego orientation like Michael Jordan.

In conclusion, if these skilled Louisville basketball players also employ high task orientation they will do all right against Wichita State. They did and won. However, the team that I’m rooting for to win it all is my Alma matter, the University of Michigan. Go Blue. U of M defeated Syracuse and will play Louisville for the 75th National Championship tonight on CBS. Go Blue and watch the game.

What about Mike Rice? Who? Mike, a basketball coach, was recently fired by Rutgers University. There are videos of his practices that show him being verbally and physically abusive (calling players fagots) and (shoving them and throwing basketballs at them). Supposedly, this was one (negative reinforcement) of his motivational techniques. His record at Rutgers was pitiful as far as conference play. He, of all people, should know that positive reinforcement is generally superior to negative reinforcement in order to change behavior. It’s unfortunate that he didn’t learn more about motivation as fear and intimidation are both limiting.

Mike certainly didn’t model enjoyment (intrinsic motivation) or sheer pleasure of the game to his players. My hunch is that there other Mike Rice coaches around who shouldn’t be. Coaches at the NCAA level make huge salaries because they are expected to win, not because they are nice guys. The university programs (basketball and football) aren’t necessarily based on facilitating teaching the athletes about intrinsic motivation with the high monetary revenue that the college teams can generate with TV, tournament and bowl money. Just visit a Big 12 university and marvel at the lavishness. After all, it’s (sports) about economics and business and don’t forget it. Our values (what we are teaching and modeling) are crystal clear.

During press conferences and analysis, the focus seems to be about finding fault with the President of Rutgers or the athletic director who resigned. Unfortunately, no one is asking questions about the big business of sports, how Mike Rice was hired in the first place, and the effect on the players themselves or even the culture (values) in collegiate sports. What are we modeling for high school, middle school and younger kids?

Do not forget the fact that universities also lower admission standards in order to admit many student-athletes. And, it is not about equal opportunity, it is about winning. Winning takes precedent in so many cases. So, the tangled web consists of economics, greed, and winning at all costs is king in our culture.

Madhu, Farah, Alpha, Chris and I ran about an 8 1/2 mile trail run Sunday which included Dead Truck and Maine Bar. Tuesday, the plan (Madhu, Farah, Alpha and I) is to run to Rucky Chucky some 18 miles. Madhu (good for him) wants to run longer so he will run home for additional mileage.

Go Blue and keep moving, smiling and laughing.

Kevin Ware and Mike Rice

2013-04-05T10:03:00.000-07:00

Any fool can make a rule and every fool will mind it" David Thoreau.

What does the name Kevin Ware bring to mind? Kevin, a University of Louisville basketball player, was injured last Sunday during a game between Louisville and Duke. This young man was attempting to block a shot by a Duke Player. He jumped and landed on one leg suffering a horrific injury. The media focused on him and his teammates and” won “the game for him. Realistically, Louisville was the better team that day and would’ve likely won their game anyway.

We all know that March was advertised as “March Madness.” This is the month that the NCAA has this tournament with some 64 plus college teams from all over the country participating. CBS among other television stations carry this event during the month. Likely, if your favorite college team is in the tourney, you can see and view your team during the month. You may have heard of the marketing terms “Sweet 16,” “Elite 8,” and “The Final Four.” I don’t know the total dollar amount collected, from the tournament, but I do know that we are talking about big bucks.

In other words, these, young college players, bring in plenty of cash to their University that results in funding some of the other sports. The college player in return receives tuition, books, room and board if on scholarship. Often, they are referred to as student-athletes. Do you think that all student- athletes have a guaranteed scholarship for four years? Do you think that these student-athletes have guaranteed tuition, books, room and board? Do you think that the student –athlete has paid health insurance?

If lucky, Kevin Ware can play basketball again, has his injury expenses paid for, and doesn’t lose his scholarship. If he was really fortunate, and if he was of NBA potential, he might have his career intact. If he was a future NBA player, what might his earnings be? However, if that injury sustained in that game resulted in the worst case scenario, his economic future would be compromised. The University of Louisville would have no responsibility or liability in that case. I know this is speculation but I also know that it is true.

To be continued:

For our 25 mile trail run this weekend we’re planning to have a picnic afterwards. Farah‘s contribution includes: 1. quinoa with vegetables and black beans 2.ginger/lime/orange drink. Both Alpha and I haven’t yet decided what to contribute. Anyway, keep moving, laughing and smiling.

Why Smile ? - Part 2

2013-04-03T09:00:00.001-07:00

"Life is what we make it. Always has been, always will be."– Grandma Moses

On a personal note, whenever I am running, in one of my competitions, I make sure that I am using humor, smiling and laughing when I can. Sometimes, I’ll even yell or let out a loud noise relating to –“I’m happy to see you. “I must admit that there are times when I am very tired and find it difficult to yell but I’m never too tired to flex the muscles of my mouth upward.

For those of you, who require assistance in projecting a positive image, consult Patti Wood in Atlanta. She coaches clients by focusing on their entire face. Her rates start at $1200 for a 3 ½ hour body- language training package. Otherwise, get in the here and now (present), look in a mirror and pay attention to what you’re projecting. Who knows, you might view something about yourself?

This bit of information is for all the athletes who experience pain. In a study of approximately 54 mostly females; the subjects were asked to keep their hand in near freezing water as long as possible. Afterwards, they were told they were part of an experiment that was going to evaluate different product designs. Some were asked to handle ibuprofen and the others microwavable noodles. Then the subjects again placed their hand in near freezing water. These volunteers-40percent of them (ibuprofen) stated that the second immersion was less painful than the first. 10% of the subjects who held the microwavable noodles claimed, for them, the second version was less painful. Okay, all you athletes, next time you’re in pain just hold the ibuprofen in your hand. I’m not sure about the glass of water. Source: Wall Street Journal, March 30-31, 2013.

This past weekend we made plans to run from Beals Point to the Overlook in Auburn for a trail run for next weekend. . Randall, who is recovering from injury, agreed to be our aid station. Alpha hasn’t committed for the entire distance but Madhu and I agreed to run the 25 mile or so distance. Chris and Farah said they’ll run about about half the distance.10-12 miles of our trail run. After, we will more than likely have a picnic and then go to Starbucks for dessert.

The planning for next weekend occurred at Farah’s 40th year birthday party. We were treated to an Indian-Vegan brunch of delicacies. I’m so fortunate to have good friends. Remember, keep moving, laughing and smiling.

Why Smile ?

2013-04-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

"I have learned, as a rule of thumb, never to ask whether you can do something. Say, instead, that you are doing it. Then fasten your seat belt. The most remarkable things follow."– Julia Cameron

I wish happy holidays and April Fool’s Day to everybody. As we know, humor and laughter are both important for well-being so make sure you’re doing it. How might smiling affect your health? Would you believe that smiling is beneficial to health and happiness? Well, it seems that a smile can slow down heart rate and reduce stress as well. According to one study, even when people weren’t aware that they were forming a smile, felt happier. Furthermore, a recent study of 170 people evaluated individuals who smiled after engaging in a stress-induced task. The researchers found that those who smiled demonstrated a greater reduction in heart rate than those who maintained a neutral facial expression. When smiling, we use the muscles around our mouth and our eyes. Supposedly, when smiling, messages are sent to the brain signaling safety which perhaps translates into lower heart rate and stress levels. If that’s so, then smiling affects the neurotransmitters or stress hormones such as cortisol and Oxytocin. Remember that.

Other studies have found that the intensity of the smile can help predict life satisfaction over time and even longevity. The researchers aren’t clear whether smiling reflects a person’s overall happiness or whether the act of smiling contributes to that happiness .Just smile.

Also, eliminating frowning may have a health benefit as well. If you use Botox to prevent frowning that might alleviate depression. If you’re depressed, evaluate how much frowning you are doing. So maybe a treatment for depression might be Botox injections? Remember frowning is not good for your physical health either. In the frowning study, after six weeks of treatment, 27% of the Botox patients went into remission for their depression compared to 7% who received the placebo injections. Another researcher, cautioned against suppressing facial emotion suggesting that by hiding the lines on your face results in feeling less pleasure in response to things in your environment. Also, people and friends won’t be able to read your emotions. So, think before you go out and get that Botox injection.

Another researcher at the University of Wisconsin is exploring whether activating the frowning muscle, known as the corrugator, which is located between the eyebrows is associated with activity in the amygdala. The amygdala is the area in the brain that processes emotions such as fear. Does that mean facial expression causes changes in the brain? Once again more research is needed to answer the question.Source :Wall Street Journal,February 26, 2013.

To be continued

Today, Chris, Alpha, Carrie, Jade, Porter and I plan to run the trail. In the meantime, keep running, laughing and smiling. Go Blue and good luck in the final 4.

Proposition 8,the Supreme Court and Chimps -Part 2

2013-03-29T09:07:00.001-07:00

"The highest reward for a person's toil is not what they get for it, but what they become by it."– John Ruskin

In a second experiment, Kandula was given a sturdy box that was placed in a different section of his containment. Did this young elephant use that sturdy box to get the food? We know that humans and apes can figure out this problem. Well, as it turned out, Kandula got the box and moved it in order to get the food reward. So what conclusions would you draw from these experiments? Would you generalize the findings? This article was found in the March 23-24, 2013 edition of the Wall Street Journal.

In an experiment, at Emory University, researchers tested chimpanzees on portraits of their own species. These chimpanzees were trained on computer screens. They apparently recognized which juveniles were born to which females. I’ll bet you could tell or recognize your offspring too. Another experiment trained the chimps to detect similarities among images. The chimpanzees were shown a females portrait and then given a choice between two other faces one of which showed her offspring. The apes chose purely on family resemblance. Can you do the same?

In a more recent study, the experimenter tracked the eye pupil movements of chimpanzees. They found that they followed the gaze of members of their own species far better than that of humans. This finding might explain their skill when they have to pay attention to human experimenters during the experiment .if only the chimpanzee could test the other chimpanzee?

Another question the experimenters evaluated was whether we’re the only species to care about the well-being of others. It is well-known that apes, in the wild, offer spontaneous assistance to each other, such as defending against other animals or even consoling distressed companions with tender embraces. In captivity, the experimenters asked whether or not one chimpanzee was willing to push food toward another. Guess what they found out? When the experimenters used a simple choice between tokens, they could exchange for food-one kind of token rewarded only the chooser, the other kind rewarded both and -lo and behold these chimps preferred outcomes that rewarded both. How do you think you would do on that experiment if your partner had a different skin color or was from a different socio- economic group? I’ll bet that if the partner was both attractive and of the other sex you might make sure both of you are rewarded.

Did you know that the octopuses, in captivity, were able to recognize their caretakers and learn to open pill bottles protected by childproof caps? Further, their brains are the largest among invertebrates. Do you think that brain size has anything to do with the skill? Also, octopuses have hundreds of suckers, each one is equipped with its own ganglion this with thousands of neurons. These mini brains are interconnected making for widely distributed nervous system; and that an octopus with a severed arm may crawl on its own and even pick up food. Moreover an octopus can change skin color in self-defense and can mimic a poisonous sea snake.

If you have children, I’ll bet their precocious too. On the other hand if you have animals, I’ll bet you taught them tricks as well. And one way to test your intelligence is determined by your choices. Are you expecting different results even though you’re making the same choice over and over? You might remember that Einstein said something like the following: "Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."

I hope the Supreme Court gets it right.

Yesterday, Alpha, Jade and I ran on the trail towards Browns Bar for about an 8 mile loop. Keep moving and laughing.

Proposition 8, the Supreme Court and Chimps

2013-03-27T08:15:00.002-07:00

"All human wisdom is summed up in two words; wait and hope."– Alexandre Dumas

This post is related to animal intelligence and dedicated to Alpha. He generally takes the position that animals are smarter or more intelligent than we know. He also told me that dogs laugh and he sent me articles to substantiate his belief. Hopefully, he will add his research findings to this post.

According to a 2007 study, a young male chimpanzee outperformed Ben Pridmore a British memory Champion .Ayumu, on a touch screen, could recall a random series of numbers, from 1 to 9, and tap them in the right order, even though the numbers had been displayed for just a fraction of a second and then replaced with white squares. Ayumu outperformed Ben on this task and was declared the winner. That chimpanzee did a super job on that task.

Prior research concluded that an elephant was incapable of using tools. Current research, with elephants was conducted by offering them a long stick while food was placed outside their reach. The purpose was to see if they would use the stick to retrieve it. The researchers knew that elephants used their trunks not only to reach food but also to smell and touch it: and as a result they have this unparalleled sense of smell. The animal, the elephant, knows exactly what they are doing as far as food is concerned. For them, vision doesn’t play a primary role in that experiment. So when an elephant picks up the stick its nasal passages are blocked .The elephant needs its ability to smell so it’s no wonder that, in these experiments, didn’t use a stick to get the food.

Research at the National Zoo in Washington presented a different problem to Kandula a young bull elephant. In this experiment, the researchers placed fruit high up above the elephant enclosure just out of the elephants reach. Inside the enclosure were several sticks and a sturdy square box. This young bull elephant ignored the sticks but after a while began kicking the box with its foot. He kicked the box many times in a straight-line until the box was right underneath the branch. Kandula then stood on the box with his front legs. This enabled him to reach the food with his trunk. This elephant used the box to get the food. Does this mean that elephants can use tools?

Monday and Tuesday Alpha and I ran the trail. Each trail run was approximately 8 ½ miles. On Monday, we ran the Dead Truck and Maine Bar loop while on Tuesday we ran the American Canyon and Dead Truck loop discussing and laughing about animal memory, Proposition 8 and same sex marriage. I maintained that choosing to have sex( straight or homosexual ) shouldn’t be the basis for being discriminated against and that no one is discussing it in those terms.

To be continued

Are Your Birthday's Happy ? - Part 7

2013-03-25T08:42:00.001-07:00

"It is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something."– Franklin D. Roosevelt

If you’re angry or frustrated with somebody then one way of indirect expression is by the use of humor as it’s socially acceptable. If you’re feeling hostile with somebody over some situation here is your opportunity to be creative and use humor to see if it makes things better for you. Remember, one doesn’t have to be young to engage in laughter and humor as its good for you and those around you.

Recently, my friend and running partner Tony and I were out tapering for my Way Too Cool 50 K. For those of you who do not know Tony, he has this wonderful loud laugh. He is known by his laughter. For example, number years ago, I was competing at the World Ride and Tie Championship (2008) and in the dinner line after the event. I simply blocked on remembering his name. However, all I had to say was” he is the guy with the wonderful laugh” and everyone knew exactly that it was Tony.

On March 9, I ran the Way Too Cool 50 K. One of the plans for race day was to be met by my friends Diane and Randall at Goat Hill some 25 to 26 miles into the trail run. At that location, Tony rejoined me along with Diane and Randall. Aside from being marathoners, Diane and Randall sing and play popular music. The last 5+ miles into the run was called by Randall the “Soul Train “as I was serenaded, on the trail, by my friends. Randall took the liberty of changing the lyrics to familiar and well known songs. His creativity was flowing and he was on a roll which resulted in much laughter and amusement. Needless to say, I enjoyed being with my humorous friends. It was good for me and resulted in distorting my discomfort.

.Okay, now you have some ideas about how to have an authentic and pleasurable happy birthday’s. Remember 1: it’s about you and your decision-making 2. Employ re-framing or changing negative words with positive words to increase self worth .3. Maintain a positive attitude .4. Establish significant goals, purpose, future and meaning in your life 5. Enhance and create humor and laughter in your life. Have you heard this joke? : The older you get the more you enjoy things you hated as a kid –like taking naps.

For inspiration read and consult my book “It Has Nothing To Do With Age ” with seven prescriptions for how to succeed and my blog at: it has nothing to do with age blogspot.com .New York Yankee author Peter Golenbock stated ““Their stories in It Has Nothing To Do With Age are about the unbelievable or impossible. If you read about them, you’ll be inspired.” Other sources for today’s presentation included Mary O’Brien, M.D.’s book titled "Successful Aging " ; Barbara Sternberg, PhD “Humor & Healing “; and Viktor Frankel’s” Man’s Search for Meaning.”

P.S Today’s quote was by FDR. For those of you that do not know, my given name is Franklin D.As our president says, keep doing, keep changing to get different outcomes.

Are Your Birthday's Happy-Part 6

2013-03-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

"To think is easy. To act is difficult. To act as one thinks is the most difficult."– Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Linda, my wife, and I recently began ballroom dancing lessons to incorporate an additional healthy and fun habit. Remember, one doesn’t have to engage in intense aerobic activity to be considered healthy. There are many things one can do that are healthy and lead to happiness. In fact, I just read an article recently in the Wall Street Journal (2/22/12) about a running activity. I didn’t know that there are races all over the world that consists of running upstairs in buildings. And, according to this one running attorney, the skyscraper stairwells in Asia are great and arguably are the best for these competitive races. Running stairwells and flights of stairs sounds interesting and something different. What’s important here is that you find your passion and incorporate a healthy activity for a healthy life. Find that right activity for you. Who knows, it just may become your passion.

Did you know that humor is both therapeutic as well as important to the number of happy birthdays for us? The ability to laugh is uniquely human and represents the body’s normal response to stress; and not only that it is tied to our ability to play and also to communicate with others. Further, it reduces tension, frustration and anxiety. Like play, humor provides enjoyment, imagination, freedom and is fun.

Sigmund Freud believed that humor was a sociably acceptable method of expressing impulses that resulted in a process that could minimize psychological energy what was important to his theory. He further postulated that humor was liberating, ennobling, and possessing both grandeur and elevation. The net result was that the world then seemed safer and less threatening.

Research studies have found that laughter involves extensive physical activity, is comparable to physical exercise, increases respiration and oxygen exchange, muscular activity, heart rate and stimulates the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, blood pressure has also been reduced in a state similar to that resulting from exercise. Not only that, but brain functioning is at its fullest capacity when both right and left hemispheres function simultaneously as they do in laughter. Think of something funny to get your brain working to its fullest.

Norman Cousins was hospitalized because of illness. He thought that humor could be used to speed up his recovery. He talked to his doctors; convinced them and was allowed to incorporate his own program of humor with their treatment plan. He focused on things (films, books) that he enjoyed. He hypothesized that the use of humor facilitated his recovery.

To illustrate the power of humor, another example is taken from Dr. Frankl’s account of the conversation he overheard taking place between two concentration camp prisoners. A little background is in order. Capos were considered one of the prominent prisoners because of their privileges, authority and position held within the concentration camp structure. This one prisoner said to another “imagine! I knew that man (referring to the Capo) when he was only the president of a large bank. Isn’t it fortunate that he has risen so far in the world?”This prisoner demonstrated that he could still be “funny” in spite of his present physical and psychological condition and circumstance. Be sure to find humor in your situation because it’s good for you.

To be continued

Are Your Birthday's Happy ? - Part 5

2013-03-20T09:54:00.001-07:00

"Without passion man is a mere latent force and possibility, like the flint which awaits the shock of the iron before it can give forth its spark."– Henri Frédéric Amiel

Unfortunately diets don’t seem to work very well and exercise programs often fail because we stop. Boredom, stress, work, or fatigue and other issues raise their ugly head and before long we stop either the diet or exercise or both. As you know, to eat healthy is expensive and to eat unhealthy is cheap and readily available. Once again it comes down to choices. So, the only way to maintain good health and well- being is to employ enjoyable habits that are also healthy.

I am lucky and fortunate since I was relatively healthy at age 57. And since that time I have engaged in running for conditioning and competitions. For me, running is an activity that fuels my soul. I run because I need to. In fact, I don’t like taking days off when I’m either tapering for an ultra events or especially when I’m ill. Just because the temperature may be in the 40’s and raining cats and dogs, this is not a good reason for not going out for a run. No one melts, as far as I’ve seen, when they’re in the rain .In fact I get grumpy and become sluggish when not running. Running has become a healthy way of life. And, I am happy to say that I still run ultras at the young age of 73.

I like to associate with other people who share my passion for running. In fact, it allows me to hang out with people in their 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s (younger people) which happens to be another component of successful aging. As you know, young people don’t necessarily talk about their aches, pains or illnesses. It can be a different story when around older individuals who seem to enjoy (secondary gain) talking about their illness. Being around negative individuals is certainly a drain and can affect attitude and well-being. My mother was smart as she told me when she was in her 80s”I do not like to be around old people.”

Young Norman Lear the creator of TV shows like “All in the Family” also likes to associate with young people and states that he’s keeps up with new ideas through his 18-year-old twin daughters. Carl Reiner, the creator of the Dick Van Dyke show, also likes to hang out and associate with the young such as his buddy Mel Brooks age 86. Their secret for keeping up with the pop-culture is to watch TV shows such as Homeland, The Daily Show, The Colbert Report and Real Time with Bill Maher. Can you determine if these three men are similar in any other ways? So you see, these Hollywood types also know two off my secrets regarding aging. Source: Joel Stein, Time, March 11, 2013

To be continued

Remember to keep moving with humor. Count your steps.2, 000 steps is about a mile. 10,000 steps is a good number.

Are Your Birthday's Happy- Part 4

2013-03-18T09:05:00.001-07:00

"Could we change our attitude, we should not only see life differently, but life itself would come to be different."– Katherine Mansfield

The importance of establishing and looking to the future is best illustrated by a story that Dr. Viktor Frankl tells. Viktor Frankl, in his book “Man’s Search for Meaning” related the story of a fellow prisoner in a concentration camp (Auschwitz) during World War II. In the story, Dr. Frankl tells about a fellow prisoners dream. According to this man, he dreamt that the allies were going to liberate the camp on March 30, 1945. On March 29, the prisoner became ill and ran a high temperature. And the next day the prisoner became delirious and lost consciousness. March 31, he was dead. His prophecies had told him that the war and his suffering would be over for him and when that didn’t happen, this man lost hope and courage which likely lowered his body’s resistance. Without something important to look forward, this man lost faith in the future and was thus doomed. Make sure you have a future in your life or something in which to look forward.

For me, that’s easy, I consider and view every training and every running event, personal conditioning for the next one to follow. In other words, I’m always looking and planning for the future. There is always another run and another competition for me. Thus having goals allows me to have purpose, meaning and to look forward to the future.

I suggest that you consider these important concepts and evaluate how you measure up. What is your reason for living or mission in life? Answers to the question will give you some insight as to birthdays to come.

Hopefully, with a consistently healthy lifestyle and a bit of good luck one can help deal more efficiently with heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and cancer. We also know that environment and lifestyle have a significant impact on reducing the risk for all except the most strongly genetic illnesses such as Huntington’s disease. However, exercise, diet and some medications can delay or reduce the likelihood of developing a disorder.

To be continued

Yesterday, Alpha, Chris, Carrie and I ran the Dead Truck-Maine Bar loop covering about 8 1/2 miles. We all laughed when I told her that her brain released the Phenylethylamine (PEA) the love chemical. Our laughter resulted in more laughing regarding the length of relationships and marriage. Don’t forget to find humor and keep moving because it’s good for you