Written by L. M. Land, with photos by L.M. Land
Senior health is important to Rev. Dr. F. E. Gilliard, so much so that he was inspired to develop a senior fitness and health program in his church, Triumphant Temple of Praise Christian Church.
The kick-off begins on Friday, June 21 with a wellness fair from 7-8:30 p.m.
On Saturday, June 22, the grand opening of the senior health and fitness Center is from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Friday’s wellness fair will feature speaker David Witherspoon from New Jersey, vendors and Flint’s local experts as well. Topics covered will be healthy eating, hypertension, diabetes, colonoscopy and prostate health, the importance of mammograms and more!
Witherspoon is a certified life health coach, a Licensed Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic-Programming® and a cancer coach. He is sure to inspire you!
Learning to monitor your health conditions and getting screened is “critical for adding years to our lives,” Gilliard explained.
Gilliard’s goal is to “create a culture where seniors are health conscious, with a healthy place to go instead of sitting around.”
Healthy food alternatives will also be available to try at the open house.
Movement is important as we age. Key to the program is a beautiful exercise room. Even a small start with exercise can improve your health and flexibility. Current research is showing that with gentle and consistent movement, conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia can improve. Consult with your doctor to see what level of exercise you can start with!
Fitness also means emotional wellness. How you handle stress can affect your health as well.
“Most people don’t examine themselves to find that place where they can escape the stress of life without alcohol or pot,” Gilliard said.
He suggests asking yourself what activities give you your own place of happiness.
Exercise can relieve stress, and Gilliard said that finding stress management routines includes daily spiritual wellbeing. He suggests including some joy, happiness and peace in your day.
According to Gilliard, it also helps to have a creative release, such as working on your car, knitting or gardening.
As the program grows there will be more services for seniors. In the meantime, come and check out the new facility!
Triumphant Temple of Praise Christian Church is at 3497 W. Pasadena, in Flint. Please call the office at 810-230-2338 if you have further questions.
Learn more about David Witherspoon at: https://www.facebook.com/david.witherspoon.7165/
