How newsmakers chill out - Annual Black Health & Fitness Section - Brief Article

Ebony, July, 2002

NEWSMAKERS, just like the rest of us, need downtime. They need to get away from the spotlight and take moments for themselves, whether it is to case stress, increase their energy level, spend time with family and friends, or just spend some quiet time alone.

Some meditate or practice yoga. Others, such as National Medical Association President Dr. Lucille C. Norville Perez, work out at the local gym or on machines in their personal home fitness center. Master P, like so many other music moguls and superstars, has installed a full gym at his new Beverly Hills home.

Many newsmakers take a hike or walk to relieve stress. David Satcher, former U.S. surgeon general and current director of the National Center for Primary Care at the Morehouse School of Medicine, takes his gym shoes with him wherever he goes so that he can run when he has time. Others in the spotlight choose to spend time preparing meals, playing or reading with their loved ones and family members.

Attorney Willie Gary listens to music and shoots pool in the rec room of his Florida mansion. Gary has special sound systems in his home and two jet planes to play primarily gospel music. "I've got to have my music," Gary told EBONY.

These top newsmakers have earned the right to take a break from life's hectic pace. With their busy schedules and the adverse effects those schedules could have on their minds and bodies, they--like the rest of us--want to make sure that they can achieve a healthy balance between work and play.

Actress and singer Vanessa L. Williams enjoys spending time with her children, including daughter Sasha, during gymnastics lessons at an L.A. gym. (Sasha's father is Los Angeles Lakers star Rick Fox.) Vanessa also enjoys the time she Spends working out and practicing yoga.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Dr. Lucille C. Norville Perez of Bethesda, Md., is president of the National Medical Association, and she works out several times a week on a cross-training machine at the local YMCA.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Bishop T.D. Jakes is a gourmet cook who often prepares dishes for his family at his lakefront home in Dallas. In addition to cooking, Jakes also relaxes by playing the piano and reading.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Attorney Willie Gary, one the most influential lawyers in the United States, plays pool with friends at his $10 million Florida estate.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Hip-hop mogul and devoted family man Master P chills out at his new California home while playing tennis with his wife. He devotes himself to other athletic pursuits as well. He is a talented basketball player who still hopes to play professionally.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Award-winning actress Terri J. Vaughn, who co-starred on The Steve Harvey Show, relaxes with husband Derrick Carolina in hot tub. She also enjoys running and getting pampered at day spas.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]