1 Life Lesson I Wish I Would’ve Listened to as a Child
I try to live without regrets, but I often wonder how different my path would’ve been if I followed all of the important “life lessons” taught to me. Although I absorbed quite a bit as a child (and teenager), here is one lesson I would pay more attention to if given a round two.
HUG EVERYONE.
Personal Trainer Wisdom: As I mentioned in this lesson, I now fear that my neighbors will think I'll chase them down the block for a hug. Why not? Everyone deserves a hug! I’m not sure every stranger would welcome my open arms. A hug isn’t always welcomed, and I’m mindful of that. Nevertheless, I know that the root of being is interaction, and hugging is an emotional manifestation of this philosophy.
Although I’ve always realized the importance of physical interaction, I’ve been guilty of isolating myself sometimes. Call it insecurity or a simple way of protecting myself. It minimized my intimacy with people in all types of relationships: romantic relationships, family relationships, etc. Should I blame myself? My family didn’t hug much (although the love was apparent), and I didn’t see many examples of this affection growing up (known by me as “Eastern European Love”: a stoic emotional exhibit of love but present in its own way).
Words of love are enough, right? Not sure anymore. Something is missing: Vulnerability. The alternative to hugging, lying on our backs like a dog, isn’t the socially acceptable exhibit of this intention for humans. Hugs are the next best thing. It is a statement of: “I trust you,” “I’m letting down my guard,” and “I accept you”… And who doesn’t want that love? My verbal language of love was helpful but not complete for many years. My new hugs genuinely represent a new level of comfort with the people I love or don’t know very much, and my life is enriched. I'm not a perfect hugger, and I still draw the line on hugs with strangers, people who don't show signs that they're interested in hugs, or hugs extending beyond a minute (and, yes, I did say that). It's a work in progress, and I look forward to reaching new (and longer) hugging heights in the next decade!
Photo Credit: Indy 100 .com: Could hugging someone be the life lesson most of us have overlooked?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MICHAEL MOODY, PERSONAL TRAINER
As an author, a personal trainer in Denver, and podcast host, Michael Moody has helped personal training clients achieve new fitness heights and incredible weight loss transformations since 2005. He also produces the wellness podcast "The Elements of Being" and has been featured on NBC, WGN Radio, and PBS.
Michael offers personal training to Denver residents who want to meet at the 2460 W 26th Ave studio….or in their homes throughout LoHi (80206), LoDo (80202), RiNo (80216), Washington Park (80209), Cherry Creek (80206, 80209, 80243, 80246, 80231), and Highlands (80202, 80211, 80212). Michael also offers experiences with a personal trainer in Jefferson Park (80211) and Sloan's Lake (80204, 80212).
If you’re looking for a personal trainer who can curate a sustainable (and adaptable) routine based on your needs and wants, Michael is the experienced practitioner you’ve been looking for. Try personal training for a month…your body will thank you!
