Affirmation for September 30, 2010: Skip Your Troubles Away!

I still get wildly enthusiastic about little things.... I play with leaves.  I skip down the street and run against the wind.  I never water my garden without soaking myself. 
- Leo F. Buscaglia, Bus 9 to Paradise
 
Thought of the day:
When was the last time you were so excited and happy about something, that you actually skipped there?
Since 1999, iSkip.com has been a little-known website that is trying to spread the skipping movement around the world.
"I think skipping could be the answer to many of our adult health problems," according to Jeanne, on iskip.com.
Here are some excerpts from the FAQ of the iskip.com website:
What are the benefits of skipping? The thing that is unique about skipping is that it has multiple benefits…..Some people skip for the undeniable fitness gains…Some just skip a few steps to lift their moods…and others to reconnect with their buoyant, exuberant childlike spirit. Skipping is great for the body, mind, and spirit! What are the physical benefits? Skipping is great exercise! It burns twice as many calories as walking ..It has less impact on your joints than running….and it is joy-based, unlike running which generates from our fight or flight reflex. Skipping is more like an animal bouncing and frolicking in a field. It’s a playful way to add variety and fun to your workouts.
What are the mental benefits? Skipping is an instant mood lifter. The next time you are feeling down, try skipping just ten steps. Keep in mind that the times you feel like skipping the least are likely the times that you need it the most. Skipping is joyful, light, and free, which are all things that contribute to a positive attitude and feeling great! It is virtually impossible to skip without smiling!
Skipping also helps you to be true to yourself. Skipping down the road is something that is surprisingly challenging for most adults to do. In order to do so, you must be willing to let go of your fears about what other people think about you. You must defeat your own inner critic that says “People will think you are crazy” and choose to let your childlike spirit have some fun. If you can find the courage to do so regularly, you will be amazed at the feeling of freedom it can bring to your life. When the judgment of others is no longer an issue, magical things can happen.
How can I get involved? The easiest way to get involved is to start skipping whenever you can. When you’re out with a group of friends see how many people are willing to give it a try. Start talking about skipping as it makes great conversation at parties. Skip with your kids. Tell your friends and family about iskip.com. Ask your aerobics instructor if she’ll incorporate skipping into your class.
 
No gimmicks, no money, no tricks, just skip! If you do, tell us about it!
 
Have a happy day!
 
TeamDS
 
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