Barbara Humberstone 13:00-13:45

Learning to be in the body: (Auto)-ethnographic narratives, alternative physical activities and healthy ageing.

This presentation considers ageing healthily through the perspectives of older people engaged in alternative and nature –based physical activities. As a so called baby boomer, I draw upon my own experiences of embodiment through physical activities and the narratives of other older people, who also enjoy regular physically activity through practising either windsurfing and yoga. I consider how the older body learns to be in the world through these of alternative physical activities. I explore the sensory lived experiences of the older windsurfer and yoga practitioner through narratives. Most of these narratives highlight emotional engagement with the habitual practising of their chosen activities. I will also consider particular diverse groups of older people for whom learning to be in the body may not include ‘normalised’ exercise and how specific interventions may offer opportunities for enjoyable engagement with physical activity and consequently the potential for the development of improved social, emotional and physical well-being.

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