Old age, what a scary thought, or maybe not! Growing older is as much a body change as it is a mindset change. Approaching 60 myself, rapidly I must add, I see the things that were once important to me, not being as important, and the things that I value most in my life growing even more valuable.
Recently good neighbors of mine were stricken with major health issues that caused them to move closer to family for the care that they will need. We all think we are impervious to these kinds of issues because we take care of ourselves, body and mind. Well, not so. Keeping active is an all important part of "staying young" and this becomes more of a challenge as we age.
Not feeling like going for that walk today? Guess what, if you don't try to make the effort now there will come a time when you won't be able to make the effort at all. Choose to move! Choose to keep your body from failing you when you need it the most. Weather's bad, walk around inside your house, march in place during the commercials of your favorite TV show, do leg lifts or arm lifts while sitting watching TV. There's really no excuse for not moving some part of your body to keep active. I've purchased a Wii Fit and I have to say the dance routines are confusing at first but really get you moving to the beat. You can do this, it's your choice.
Choose to keep your mind active! Read, watch shows that inspire you, learn a new task, become a volunteer, etc. Volunteerism is a growing facet of our culture right now. People who have never volunteered before are stepping up and helping out. As part of your effort, you could sign up for a charity walk and kill two birds with one stone. I don't mean literally! Train and prepare yourself for any charity event you might choose. There are so many options for keeping "you" from being that poor old soul.
Don't overdo, check with your doctor before you start training. Excess stress on your joints can cause more damage then benefits if you aren't careful. Go slow at first and work up to what's comfortable to you. Never let someone else push you if you don't feel up to it. Go swimming if you can, good aerobic exercise without the stress.
I've decided and I hope you will too, not to be that "old person." I want to live my life to the fullest and age with grace.
Gracefully aging, now that's for me.
More Information:
To read more stories about the
aging process visit Marion's website.
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