Activity time: 10 minutes

Introduce the activity using these or similar words:

In 1954, a young research physician, Denham Harman, developed the “free radical theory of aging.” After decades of additional research, his work was accepted by the medical establishment. Now his findings support research into cancer, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. The theory holds that one byproduct of oxygen utilization is adverse chemical reactions in cells. He advised slowing the aging process by reducing the production of free radicals. This is done by maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and vitamins as needed. Dr. Harman also advocated not smoking and limiting use of alcohol. He inspired thousands of young medical research scientists, worked into his mid-nineties, and passed on from this life at ninety-eight after a brief illness.

Today an increasing number of people live into their eighties, nineties, and past the century mark. The Today Show’s special birthday greetings are now given only to people over one hundred years of age, because living into one’s nineties is no longer as rare as it once was.

In the spirit of Dr. Harman’s advice, we begin our workshop with some oxygenating exercises. Please take into account any physical limitations you may have and adapt the exercises to what you are able to do. Now, if you are able to do so, please stand up.

Then, lead the group in these exercises, adapted from the book Five Minute Massage by Robert Thé, demonstrating as you lead:

Exercise 1: Begin by stretching your face. Gently rub small circles all over your face with both hands. (1 min.) Softly pat your face all over. (1 min.) Feel the color come to your cheeks as the muscles and blood vessels respond. Now relive your childhood and make some funny faces: Here’s one to try: Scrunch up your forehead and try to wiggle your nose. What other funny faces are in your repertoire? Then open your mouth wide and say, “ooh-eee-ooh-eee-ooh-eee”! a few times (1 min.) And finally, with both hands, caress every part of your face. (1 min.)

Exercise 2: Take a deep, slow breath. Stretch wide your arms out to the side, being careful not to whack your neighbor! Feel your chest expand and stretch. Now , gently tap your chest and sides using a soft fist. (1 min.) It is said that this exercise helps your immune system.