Lew Burja believes it’s very important to keep moving. A mere 92 years of age, Lew practices Tai Chi in his hometown of Leeds, England. He’s a grandfather to three little ones that he loves to keep up with. It’s a good thing he likes to stay active because he can’t stand still.
It wasn’t until he was in his 50s that Lew found tai chi. Otherwise fit, he’d been experiencing chronic chest infections and suffering from a bad back. An avid athlete, martial arts was the one practice he hadn’t tried. But after watching a demonstration at a fair, he started weekly two hour session.
Tai Chi, known for its slow, intentional movement, is a holistic approach to exercise. Tai Chi is a form of kung fu, which is a term that means “any study, learning, or practice that requires patience, energy, and time to complete.” The overall benefits of practicing Tai Chi include improved range of motion in shoulders and arms, increased flexibility in legs, greater balance, and increased lung capacity. The sequence of movements is used to manage specific health issues. As a result of taking up the practice, Lew stopped getting the chest infections, and even colds.
Lew firmly believes that the main lifestyle difference between him and his many friends of the same age who are passing is his active lifestyle. He believes that his exercise, including walking up to seven miles a day and running, keeps him living at 100% both physically and mentally. He credits his activity level for his sharp mind and positive outlook on life. Both of which keep him looking forward to his next adventure, which right now is writing thrillers.
Want to see Lew in action? Click here and scroll down to the video.
The post Can’t Stand Still appeared first on The 100 Year Lifestyle.