Sports, as we understand it, does not refer to glittery trophies that teams spray champagne into or golden medals that players wear, after victory. Neither does it imply the surpassing of the other competitor nor does it mean that the winner is the best of the lot in a particular sport.
Sports are more concerned with behavior and a mental attitude that attempts to create a sound body. As sports prepare the player for tough physical endurance, at the same time they inculcate in her skill, courage, perseverance, and fitness. With such qualities, they prepare a person to take on life’s daily challenges.
In the larger framework, sports offer an analogy of this uncertain world and help us deal with everyday stress, be that physical or mental. Every other day, like every other game, poses to us an entirely different set of unknown tests. To walk through them or tail off is determined by our ability to stay strong and never lose hope – and that’s what sports help us in achieving.
By putting us through demanding situations, sports refine our thinking and sharpen our decision-making skills. They help us understand how collective efforts can work wonders and put one back on track when we couldn’t even think of it. Above all, these games teach us cooperation beyond competition.
When we talk of exercising and playing games, we understand that they involve physical energy. They require agile bodies and immense attention that are exhausted after a point of time. That is where the rest becomes necessary. Relaxing ourselves should not be seen as futile but an equally productive exercise wherein we renew the energy spent during work.
Therefore a balance between exercise, work and rest is vital for normal physiological functioning. Playing games and resting adequately can help prevent the myriad of health issues confronting human beings in the present age.
Whenever people, old or young, fall sick, doctors often provide a common advice along with the medical prescription —daily morning walk. Right from kindergarten classes we memorize the essay titled “Morning Walk”. It indeed is such a blessing for those who venture out in the breezy mornings to embrace the bounties of nature. In addition to being a blissful habit, daily walks help us remain fit and free from many ailments.
The rhymes and essays that we learnt in nursery classes were full of wisdom. It is time that we start practicing applying them for a healthy lifestyle. We should play, exercise, rest for our own sake. Whether we take care of ourselves or not, the choice is ours. The consequences will be ours too.
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