Be Well
“You’re going to be proud of me, Lucy … I’ve decided that this next year is going to be my year of decision!”
– Charlie Brown
Webster defines the word “resolution” as it pertains to this article as ‘the act of finding an answer or solution to a conflict, problem, etc.: the act of resolving something. : an answer or solution to something …’ and we all know that there is an expectation of sorts that most of us will have at least one or two of those resolutions as we enter another new year. However, I like Charlie Brown’s perspective much better as it relates to a “year of decision.”
Our lives are made up of decisions from the moment we open our eyes in the morning until we enter dreamland that same evening. Decisions vary from the mundane and completely simplistic (do I wear a red sweater or a black sweater today) to critically important decisions regarding our health and relationships. For my intent here we will focus on decisions which may seem simplistic but can have a very positive effect on our fitness level and enjoyment of whatever stage of life in which we find ourselves. I am going to step out on a limb and use myself as an example …
As a woman in my late sixties I sometimes have to ask myself “how in the world did I get here” as I often feel little differently than I did in my twenties … and society has a tendency to push aging folks more and more into the background of life. Many of us who reach this stage of life have serious health issues which we are forced to confront and handle the best we can with medication and medical assistance. Many of us are blessed that we do not take prescription medications and are able to maintain a positive level of energy most of the time. And, of course, most aging baby boomers fall somewhere in between the two. Whatever stage you are in (and I am speaking of the “60+” group here) you still have daily decisions to make about your health and fitness. If you are over sixty and you have not had a complete physical in some time, start there. Your physician will order bloodwork and give you an examination which may include heart monitoring and other exams based upon family medical history and your own considerations. A vision exam, dental work and a complete skin examination by a dermatologist are always a good idea.
Once you have these items behind you and are cleared by your physician it is time to make the decision to work with a certified nutrition consultant and perhaps a fitness trainer to take charge of your health and well-being to be the best you possible; not the twenty-something you but the current you. Fortunately many people approaching 70 are more active, healthy and enjoying life now than at any point in history. Make a decision this year to be the best you – not like a celebrity, or your neighbor, or best friend, but based on your own particular health and fitness decisions. Not only will you feel better, look better, and enjoy your life more completely, but your loved ones will benefit but the care you give yourself. Those we hold dear and who love us in return will benefit from our decision to evaluate and step forward in 2018 to an increased level of self-care and wellness.
In homage to my Scottish ancestry, I wish you all …
Bliadhna Mhath Ùr!
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.