A lunchtime disaster
It was a hot summer day in Central Park. A Wednesday - matinee day - and my section at Tavern on the Green was filled with "ladies who lunch". Every one of them, in a rush to get to the theater on time, was wondering where their food was. Everywhere I looked I was met with that look—the one that says “Is my lunch ready yet?”
I ventured into the depths of the restaurant to see what was going on in the kitchen.
That’s where I found my coworker, Elliot, his tray stacked high with plates, waiting for the cooks to give him one more seafood club sandwich to complete the order.
Without giving it a thought, I took the tray from Elliot and left him to wait for the last meal.
At 19 years old, lifting and balancing that enormous tray on my shoulder felt like just part of the job. I’d just worked 3 double shifts in a row, while staying out late every night for the past week. Now it's 85 degrees and humid and I'm just a tad dehydrated.
That's when a lunchtime disaster struck.
I fainted.
I recall the look of horror on the bartender's face as my vision of the trees in the park behind her blurred and began to go up and down. It was a train wreck in slow motion I couldn't stop. I buckled under the weight of the tray as it slid off my shoulder and I came down on my knees. In seconds, my entire section's food was on the ground.
I still cringe at the memory. But whenever I think of that day, I’m reminded of all I’ve learned since to keep myself on my feet.
#1 Stay Hydrated
Your body is 70% water. Staying hydrated is essential to maintain a healthy heart and brain. Water keeps our muscles and joints moving as they should while also helping to regulate body temperature. In warm climates or when we’re under stress or exertion, adequate hydration helps minimize the risk of overheating, getting dizzy or fainting.
As we age, staying hydrated becomes even more crucial. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip it throughout the day!
#2 Lift appropriate weight
Lifting heavy things is a good thing. According to a respected Australian study called the LIFTMOR trial, heavy resistance training is safe and improves bone, function and stature in postmenopausal women with low bone mass.
Be smart and work out with loads appropriate for your strength and experience level. Avoid getting stuck on plateaus by adding more weight slowly, over time. That’s the only way to keep building bone mass beyond the point of initial adaptation.
#3 The importance of practicing balance while moving
I lost my balance while carrying that tray because I was tired, dehydrated, and making bad decisions. On a better day. my body and brain could have handled the challenge without any issues.
These days, my regular practice movement challenges and prepares my body and my brain to adapt to life knocking me off balance. I adapt traditional yoga poses in random ways. I MOVE more to get my heart rate up and have a good time while doing it.
Could you use an opportunity to challenge your balance, stimulate your bones (especially your hip bones!) and boost your energy? Check out my newest Strong Bones video and get moving and balancing with me!
And if you're ever in New York City, go for a drink at the iconic Tavern on the Green. If you happen to see any remnants of eggs florentine in the bushes beside the Crystal Room, let me know 😉.
Susannah