Over the next few weeks I am going to share a series of distinct memories from my time in Japan with you. My intention is to shed more light on my perspectives with regards to health and perhaps open your eyes and minds to this same light. Whether or not you break out and make changes to your day immediately is not as important as beginning to look at our collective health and wellness from new angles. If we are to move forward with any lasting health and vitality as Canadians we must build a globally realistic self-image of our health and healthy habits. This first snapshot came within weeks of my arrival to Japan and made me shake my head at the differences between our cultures.
The rain spattered and slipped down the windows of the commuter train as it sped through the urban industrial and residential pockets of Osaka. Between the trees and buildings I caught glimpses of industrial courtyards and school yards filled with people all sharing in some morning movement. From what I could see the movements were a mix between Yoga, T'ai Chi and Calisthenics and all I could think about was why we don't do this at home.
From that day forward I rode my bike as far as I could each morning before boarding whatever connecting transit was needed and shook my head each time I thought of the reverse happening at home. I think it was in the days following those first glimpses of morning movement that I began to appreciate the impact of culture on our collective health. These glimpses have in no small way given shape to my dreams and chief aims in life. As I move forward with designing a strategy and plan to effecting a cultural change in how we interact and invest in our health I will often think back to those rainy-day images and smile as I ride my bike to my next client or stroll to catch the train or bus on those snowier days.
Choose to start your day with some movement and smile knowing you are not alone in your steps, breaths and bounds towards being well.
(Part 4 will be posted on April 7, 2009)
Scott Tate