Fauja Singh was the oldest marathon runner in all history. He finished his last race (10 K) on Sunday, February 24, 2013 in Hong Kong. He was ready to hang up his shoes. Isn’t it amazing how some people just defy myths about aging. I want to emphasize “myths”.
The only reason why anyone can’t do things like to this to a ripe old age is the “thought that counts”. He only started running marathons in his 80s. that’s pretty amazing. I suspect that he kept himself in good shape both physically and mentally.
He wasn’t afraid of the challenge. He has mental toughness, this guy. He’s a vegetarian. He obviously takes good care of himself. These are all elements of a person with high healthy self esteem because he does take good care of himself.
Now I noted that he’s a vegetarian. You don’t have to be one in order to be healthy. In fact, most people shouldn’t adopt a vegetarian diet unless they really are suited to be one. A very small daily dose of meat is all you need to keep healthy.
But getting back to Mr. Singh, he has all the hall marks of someone who cares a lot about himself. The proof is how he takes care of himself so that he can run these grueling races.
He’s a magnificent example of human spirit. If you care as much about your own mental/emotional state then you will also do the right things for your body. When you care about yourself, then you will also sincerely care for others around you. Compassion can’t be faked. So give it to yourself first.
Cheers. Dr. Joanny
Dr. Joanny Liu, TCMD, RAc, P.Eng. Dr Joanny Liu “Best Selling Author and founder of Extraordinary Sports Medicine, where we help athletes reverse injury, get back in the game they love and improve their quality of life.” Best selling book at: Heal Your Concussion: How to Quickly and Effectively Get Back in the Game Remember, we’ve got two books about healing concussions in Amazon: Knock OUT Concussions, Heal Your Concussion: 21 Days to Brain Health, and Dr. Joanny’s new book, Heal Your Concussion: How to Quickly and Effectively Get Back in the Game is NOW live on Amazon!
