Those of you who know me, know that I like to exercise. Specifically, I like to swim, bike and run with an occasional surf outing if the waves are up or if I'm in California with my brother. Lately, many folks in my many life circles have begun to talk of times when my life will no longer be my own, and my time spent exercising will diminish. My life will, like the earth, begin to revolve around a bright object known as "baby." There is not a name yet for this "baby" but it has been determined that it is male and it has large feet like its father.
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| Baby "Big Foot" Russell at 20 weeks |
Kidding aside, I am excited to be a dad and to become wonderful parents with my wife Tiffany. We plan on continuing an active, healthy lifestyle and having any children, we have, be a part of that lifestyle. I grew up with two active parents who taught me that exercise is an essential part of maintaining a positive physical, mental, and emotional well being (YMCA motto I think).
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| Dr. Russell surfs Croatan with brother Clayton during ECSC. |
Often in practice, patients tell me they are too busy to get any physical exercise, due to jobs and more frequently kids. I have read research that kids these days spend countless hours in front of digital babysitters, ie TVs, computers, video games... Those hours are optimal times to get the family outside. Kids and parents alike will benefit from as little as 30 minutes of daily exercise. Walking briskly is sufficient; running is not necessary for everyone. Riding a bike can be even better, for those with joint issues, due to the lack of impact. It is proven that people sleep better after exercising, and their metabolisms and overall body processes normalize. Amazingly, exercise reduces pain in people with osteoarthritis. Exercising can clear the body of many stresses, freeing the mind and reducing the physical effects of stress. Point being, quit making excuses! There are too many positive reasons to get out and do something active. It will be good for you and your kid(s) and will leave a legacy of healthy living for the next generation.
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| Dr. Derek and his wife Tiffany reveal the gender of the baby to family and friends. |
