Marjorie, You are so right. We make time for so many things and so many other people in our lives. It is crucial for us to take care of ourselves. We will be happier, healthier — and be better wives, mothers, daughters, friends and professionals if we put ourselves first more often. Thanks for tuning in. Dr. A

I’m a big fan of the martial arts. It’s not what most people think. It’s a great form of exercise, and almost anyone can do it. You simply go at your own pace. But it’s great for improving flexibility and coordination, plus all of the other things attendant with exercise - such as improving lung capacity, strengthening the heart and bones. The thing about the martial arts is, you’re not likely to get bored with it as easily, because your mind is engaged. Solo activities like walking, lifting weights, et al., seem to be much more difficult for many people to sustain long-term, for that very reason. Of course, everyone’s different. Wing Chun kung fu is a good martial art that isn’t too taxing on the body (unless you want it to be). Being a godan in Uechi-ryu, I’m a big fan of the Okinawan arts, but I also dig the Chinese and Filipino systems. The thing is, the learning is infinite - there is always something new to learn or perfect. Tai Chi works for many people, although the self-defense component of that is much more hidden. But it’s all good.

Sanbee, Thank you for the welcome. I am happy to be here with you on WOWOW. Walking can definitely make you younger. Congratulations on taking this first step. And say “hello” to your mother for me. Dr A.

Jeannot, you might enjoy the wisdom of one of my favorite Readers Digest quotes:”A dog is an exercise machine that you can’t turn off”. Regular outings with your canine pal have many mental and physical benefits. I try to start most days with a 2 mile walk with my dog - she is quite patient and seems to understand certain tasks have to be completed before we set out(she does get to run out in the yard as soon as she wakes), but once she knows the time is at hand she pesters me until the leash is on and we’re out the door. Right now we have no sidewalks because there is so much snow so walks are few. We are both looking forward to getting back to our local park. I can do my cardio at the Y but there’s no treadmill for her! Dr. Andersen, we are fortunate to have you sharing your wisdom with us! I will look forward to each day’s tip. Exercise is so important. I wish more people would give it the same priority as breathing.

A good internist seen regularly is the best thing to do, James. I had my baseline echo-cardiogram done 2 years ago which told me there were no occlusions. I think we should remember that getting a CT heart scan is great if you have a good doctor that knows how to interpret it. We can do the health thing and eat right and exercise and still have it happen, but we have a better chance of survival. I am getting ready to go to a funeral home right this moment to visitation for an old friend who dropped dead this past Tuesday. He had no obvious symptons, and it was very sudden. Women have much different symptons with their heart attacks than men. We all have to focus on the big picture, don’t we.

James Thanks for the info.