Chew On It – Elixr Life
Knowledge
“The greatest obstacle to discovery is not ignorance but the illusion of knowledge.”
– Daniel Boorstin
Whenever I’m involved in education, I stress to students that they should never take the information as absolutely correct. Far too often, information provided by ‘the experts’ can be wrong. I believe it’s essential to analyse and verify the information we’re given.
We’re often amused when we listen to young children, as they don’t know much but happily provide their opinions. I’m not convinced that we adults are much better. Case in point? The tens of thousands of people who vote for Donald Trump.
I’ve seen people who revere spiritual leaders and swallow every word they utter without question. Those spiritual leaders may be trained but it doesn’t mean they get it right all the time. I’ve also listened to experts who provide poor advice when they don’t really understand the matter. And I’ve had people advise me to snap out of depression when they haven’t experienced it themselves or don’t truly understand the nature of the disease.
I’m not saying that experts have to have first hand experience, but it is essential that they have the knowledge, understanding, empathy and compassion to be able to give good advice. I say ‘good’ rather than ‘correct’ as those who receive the advice will respond to it in their own way.
The same goes for my ramblings – it’s up to you to decide whether it makes sense to you or not. And there I go, giving advice again!
Physical wellbeing
When it comes to physical wellbeing, however, I’m confident that I provide advice that is qualified and evidenced based.
I’ve seen members following programs from mobile apps and performing exercises that are potentially dangerous. I recommend using one of our personal trainers to develop a program for you, and to ensure that you’re performing the exercises correctly. The cost will be far less than paying to have your body treated if you injure yourself.
The other point I’d like to stress is that high-intensity workouts don’t necessary equate to good workouts. Without correct and accurate techniques, continuous high-intensity training will end in disaster for the body.
Be sensible with your body – it’s not as resilient as it was when you were a teenager. And train with these words in mind: ‘Train, don’t strain’ and ‘Train to sustain’.
