Guest Post: A roof over Ireland ...by Pat Walsh

 ** A roof over Ireland **

We joked for years about Ireland would be a great country if only we could put a roof over it. Well, in the last few weeks the sunroof has been opened and we are basking in a glorious spell of weather. 

It is in weather like this that or ability to get out and enjoy life is paramount. I have attended some races recently and the feel-good factor is huge. There is a buzz, there is an energy from people who turn up to run these events and a big help knowing it won’t be wet or cold. Organisers are loving this as well and if you ever stood as a steward at a crossing in wind and rain you get my drift as the current sunshine is divine.

I was at the Cheetah 5k Run in Fota Wildlife park on Thursday night and the sense of fun was palpable. How often do you get to run around this beautiful estate? There were wild animals on both side of the fences…! They had a kids run before the main event. 

These are the days to live for, where we all mingle and get some exercise and fresh air. Of course there was winners but I think the smile on the faces of the finishers was something special.

And now to You:

Are you in a physical position to get out there and enjoy being active? 

It is vital to your health and mental well-being. There are similar events are in your area if only you look for them. You will be made feel welcome as any organisation wants to see you there but you must take the first step.

I cannot stress enough how important it is for the quality of your life NOW and in the FUTURE to keep yourself physically and mentally active. I am not talking speed or marathons, just the ability to turn up and enjoy the company of fellow strugglers in a 5k or 4-mile run. I have been beating this drum relentlessly over the past few years and I’m not going to stop. 

Fresh air and exercise are better than all the medicines in a chemist shop. 

A run chat and a cuppa chat with a training partner is better than any psychiatrist.

A smile and a hug at the end of a run is priceless.

‘Your health is your wealth’ has often been bandied about and it is true. But your health is also your ability to get the most enjoyment out of life. 

I’m off to sun myself a little more. Take care out there 

'One of these mornings
You're gonna rise up singin'
Yes, you'll spread your wings
And you'll take to the sky'

#pwr