For long-time member, Annie, the Greater Burlington YMCA pool is a source of several types of joy. It pleases many of her senses, whether it’s the sight of the sun glittering off the water’s surface, the feel of weightlessness in the water, or the sound of cheerful voices as she connects with other swimmers. Annie’s attachment to the Y includes a love of the new building, having been a member since before the 298 College Street location opened.
Managing Chronic Issues
Annie has multiple types of arthritis, plus tendonitis and bursitis in multiple joints. She sees exercise as an important part of her pain management. She’s able to walk and swim, but it’s swimming that really relieves her symptoms. After swimming, she says, “I feel relaxed and glad that I took action toward maintaining my health.” Annie calls swimming, “an escape from gravity,” where she is free from the pressure on her joints she feels outside of the pool. Despite occasionally dreading the colder lap pool, Annie is always able to remind herself that she warms right up after the first couple of laps and gets right in. After all, she knows that managing her ailments is the greatest reward for the effort.
The Importance of Human Connection
Maintaining her health brings Annie to the Y pool every day, even if it’s for a short swim. She’s noticed that “the regular routine is very helpful for motivation.” Another regular feature of her time at the Y is the greeting she receives from the front desk staff. Whether she’s coming or going, Annie is complimentary of their friendliness and helpfulness. “Sharing a greeting and a smile, then a thank-you when I leave is an important positive connection with another human,” Annie believes. She also likes the casual conversations that often strike up in the building. “I enjoy connecting with women in the locker room,” she says. It’s these human connections that really enhance her physical activities.
The YMCA is more than just a pool to Annie – it’s a community-centered organization that fosters her engagement with neighbors and like-minded fitness seekers. It’s at the Y where Annie might make her only human connection in a day, underscoring the impact of the Y’s place in supporting her overall well-being.