Exercise has been a practice in my life for several decades.  It’s what often brings me back to center when my thoughts get the better of me.  When needing to tune out from the world, I put in my headphones and run, and run, and run. Over the past few years I’ve incorporated more toning work through a barre class.  While engaged in very intense micro-movements, the instructor reminds us about our mind and body connection.  She encourages us to conquer thoughts intent on stifling the capacity of our muscles and to push through the discomfort.  When I’m on the verge of giving up, I visualize past the temporary pain and focus on the forthcoming increased vitality.  This deepens my sense of resolve and I am able to transfer this resilience to countless inevitable challenges.  In order for my brain to function at its optimum capacity, I must give attention to my body.

At Almond and in LASD, mind and body also converge.

Prior to spring break, we came together as a community through the #GimmeFive White House campaign to consider how we might live healthier lives. Students learned the moves to the Kidzbop version of Uptown Funk (inspired by Michelle Obama and Ellen DeGeneres’ dance) over several weeks.  We boogied at lunch, Friday assemblies, and I heard about families joining in the fun in the evenings at the bequest of their children.  One of our students even took the concept, developed her own routine to her own favorite song, and taught it to students on Music Friday.  While this increased focus on physical activity certainly contained a tangible element of pure fun, we did also take our pulses to measure our elevated heart rates, and made commitments to healthy choices.  Check out this awesome video which captures our efforts.***

This Saturday, our 4th - 6th graders will compete in the LASD Junior Olympics.  Thanks to the generosity of LAEF, all of our students have weekly physical education instruction that honors the need to grow and stretch our bodies just as much as our brains.  For many weeks now our students have been preparing to accomplish their personal best.  At this event, our children will have the opportunity to push themselves to new heights and revel in their accomplishments.  I look forward to seeing our athletes and their families there.  If you are a parent of a TK - 3rd grader, I invite you to still attend to cheer on our Eagles.  

***Thank you to Mrs. Nguyen, Leticia, Yvo, and Olivia for capturing the video footage and creating the video!  Also, if any of you want to see the First Lady and her squad doing the dance, here was their rendition.