Hard workouts, heavy breathing, and smelly sweat are not the way to achieve physical improvement and health. Difficult training is often the fastest way to produce injury, dysfunction, and discouragement. This is especially true for the mature “30-100 year old” body.

Think of the animals. They rest, stretch, eat and play on their own schedule. When they run to survive, like an antelope being chased by a cheetah, they are able to use rested, relaxed muscles, full of energy for the chase. The stressed, sick, tired animal is singled out for the kill because it is less likely to get away.

Young animals are known for their interest in playing. Think about training reflexes and skills to provide for themselves. They also seem to eat with gusto and sleep deeply.