“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” – Confucius
I don’t know about you, but I do feel that I have slowed down a bit as I have entered my 70s … I tell myself that the changes are not there, but a dose of realism is needed once in a while! I do participate each day in stretching and flexibility movements in order to maintain balance which becomes ever more important as we move forward in time, and lift weights at least three times weekly.
Maybe it is just that I don’t begin my day as quickly or energetically as before, or that I have allowed myself more time to sit and read as well as catch up on some old movies and DVR items I had let go. Of course, in the winter months most of us do slow down a bit, other than those of you who thrive on winter sports and activities! I am not one of those since I lost the opportunity to ice skate due to osteoporosis. I would LOVE to put on my skates again, but the doctor advised against it as a hard fall on the ice could be a critical issue, sadly. I do, however, keep my baton handy and twirl outside when weather permits and inside in the room with the highest ceiling!
I often speak with those taking part in the fitness classes I teach and other friends who indicate that they just don’t bother trying to do much activity any more due to the fact that they cannot move the way they used to; flexibility and strength have waned. And YES, certainly our ability to move and stay strong does change as we age. Noted in the quote above, the important thing is that we do not STOP. If we do so, our muscles begin to atrophy, our joints become stiff and immovable, and our organs become more sluggish and prone to disease.
Aging is a journey we all take, certainly. Let’s get there in the best shape we can. Of course, many of us have indulged in goodies and food items that are best not included in a healthy eating plan, and like me many of us are just not as active as we usually have been in the past. SO – let’s get going, no matter how slowly we go. The important thing is that we do not STOP.
Along with that, let’s not stop working on our “mind fitness” by challenging ourselves to improve our minds through reading, playing games, and I might suggest writing as well. Publishing a book about my beloved dog, Sweetie, was a challenging and very rewarding experience. (An upcoming book will highlight the life of my great-great-grandmother, a Native American who was adopted by a white couple when her mother was forced west on the Trail of Tears.) Write about what you know, what you love, or what you feel will be helpful for other people to learn and you will reap the benefits of a stronger and more flexible mind to go along with your stronger and more flexible body!
The important thing – don’t give up because our world has changed and placed obstacles where we could not have before imagined. Keep going … no matter if the going is a bit slower, just do it!
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.