the art of good health
In life, we are often confronted with or choose different paths. And for most of us, those paths–although different–are rewarding. Let us introduce you to an artist, a client, a friend: John Gosling.
For John Gosling, his journey has been a confluence of creating art, civic engagement, and keeping himself healthy.
Born in London, John grew up just a few miles from the River Thames. The River was an important part of his life then. He came to Alexandria in 1996. John has found the Potomac River to be a constant source of inspiration.
John’s art is on exhibit at The Torpedo Factory now. “Printed Art: The Potomac”. If you can’t reach him at Fitness on the Run Friday mornings, you may find him at the Torpedo Factory.
(It’s All a Facade)
Since his retirement from his professional career as an architect, John has devoted much of his time to enjoying life with his amazing wife, Deb, his art, the Old Town community and to his health.
Some of John’s work can take years to complete. When asked how he can possibly spend the time it takes to complete some of his pieces of art, he says, “Yes, some of my work takes time but I try to keep a clear idea in my head of the scope of the finished piece and work towards that however long it takes. For me art is a means of expression and communication. I like my work to have a narrative, to tell a story, and to make an immediate connection to the viewer.”
Just like our journey to clean health, it takes time. John continually focuses on the finished piece. Instead of nit picking your workouts, your nutrition, etc, focus on the end product: clean health.
Like many, while working as an architect, John let a sedentary lifestyle. He says he has had his share of gym memberships, has gone through “bursts” of exercise activity whenever he could find the time.
However, his practice of walking has been a big benefit. When he was young, his parents would take him on hikes. He continues to walk on a regular basis in addition to his weekly workouts at Fitness on the Run.
His diet, he says, stems from being an immigrant. Food rationing was the norm until he was a teenager. When he came to the United States, he was shocked at the access Americans have to food 24/7. He of course admits, like most immigrants, he eventually “joined in the party” but continues to believe the unfettered access is excessive and leads to unhealthy living.
When it comes to pressures of daily life, John has a good perspective, “…my art is a release, where if there are pressures they are generally self-imposed…my art offers incredible freedom to be creative in many different ways.”
He believes his devotion for clean health is vital to leading a pain-free lifestyle. In retirement, you have the time, he says, so use it. “Basically, it’s the realization that to enjoy productive and constructive retirement you need to stay reasonably fit, and in retirement you have the time to achieve that at your own pace. Also I recognized that to be relatively pain-free as you age, you need the discipline of a regular exercise regime to stay strong and keep muscle tone.”
Thank you, John, for your devotion to community, arts, and your health!
- About the studio
Alexandria Wellness offers achievable answers for anyone who is tired of chasing fitness and health without a clear plan, someone who has struggled and is not satisfied with their fitness and wellness or someone who is open to maximized healthful longevity and fitness along with healthful weight loss. Adrien and her team offer help with food guidance, body acceptance, sleep and stress issues, and insist you have fun along the way.
Schedule your free 30 minute consult here!
Alexandria Wellness
215 North Payne Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.299.9333
contact@alexandriawellness.com
1 Comment
i love this story. 🙂 happy tuesday, y’all!