Start simply. Spend time outdoors. Move fresh air in and out of your lungs. Shift your attention from a TV or computer screen to a bird, a cloud, or falling rain. For some people, that is a huge beginning. Others can walk or swim, stretch, and do simple resistance exercises. The important part is to listen to your own body. Experiment. See what feels good to you. Forget any preconceived ideas you have about your self and your body.

Check our archive for advice from exercise physiologist Dr. Irv Rubenstein .