Most people know the importance of getting and staying fit, but sometimes we forget how vital it is for our overall health. Other times, we’re intimidated by it. The thing to remember is that fitness isn’t only about physical exercise and a healthy diet.

Fitness is broad but easy to maneuver. Part of your health can include listening to a book on tape, spending time outside, singing, painting, meditating, martial arts, laughing, or reading The Mountain-Ear. The Gilpin County Community Center’s Rec Connect Get Fit event was a great reminder.

The delicious snacks provided by the Holistic Homestead were part of the event’s connection to health. Talks on self-care, mental health, healthy eating, and fitness demonstrations filled the center.

Health and fitness segments included yoga, senior fit, body movement, martial arts demos, and how to create a fitness calendar. Gilpin County EMTs conducted EKG tests, and the Friends of Gilpin County Community Center also shared useful information about utilizing the center.

The Jefferson Center for Mental Health presentation offered insight into other parts of well-being. One of the most important things I remember about this presentation is that “self-care is not selfish.”

We tend to say, “I can’t exercise because I don’t have time,” or “I can’t do this or that because I need to take care of someone else,” or “I’m just too tired.” I’ll remind you that no one takes care of you the way you can take care of yourself.

Fitness is as simple as taking time to do things that make you happy; a walk in the woods, watching a funny movie, gardening, strength training, or dancing in the middle of your living room.

If you’re too tired, consider your diet. Arwen Ek of the Holistic Homestead also offered information on eating healthy. You are what you eat. If you’re consuming too many calories and not using them, that can make you tired. If your meal’s ingredients aren’t the best, that will also affect your energy level.

Unhealthy food choices can lead to numerous medical issues, including mood swings, depression, low energy, and lack of self-worth. Not to mention, how you treat yourself affects you and the people around you.

The Gilpin County seniors also attended the Get Fit event. What I find so inspiring about the seniors in the program is that regardless of age, they’re committed to eating healthy and staying active, proving further that health and fitness are what you make it.

Another thing that affects our health is one that we sometimes fail to acknowledge. What is that? People. If you allow negativity into your life, inevitably, it will take a toll on your health. It doesn’t mean you have to be rude in cutting ties. You can distance yourself by staying busy and spending time focusing on yourself.

The fitness place in the Nederland Community Center, the Gilpin County Community Center, and the endless trails surrounding our homes are great places to begin your fitness journey. So are the libraries, our gardens and decks, and our minds. Waking up each morning with a positive thought can be the difference between an unhealthy and a healthy day.

Taking care of yourself is not selfish. Making healthy decisions and taking good care of yourself is a character trait that inspires and motivates others. There’s nothing selfish about that!

Throughout the year, the Gilpin County Community Center hosts several fitness classes and events. The center is located at 250 Norton Drive, in Black Hawk. They can be reached by phone at 303-582- 1453. To learn more, visit https:// gilpincounty.colorado.gov/exploregilpin/ parks-and-recreation.