Retiring to someplace other than the recliner

“At daybreak, when loath to rise, bear this thought in mind: I am rising for a man’s work.” – Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, c. 170

I am anticipating that, of course, Marcus is referring to humankind, and not just men, in his commentary – actually, he probably was referring to men only, but we will ignore that!

This quote reminds us of the importance of continuing a life work even though retired, and how necessary it is for us to rise to that work every day. Now that I am approaching 10 years in “retirement” I was contemplating how much the same or different that has been than I originally thought. After 42 years of professional employment, it was with trepidation that I entered the retirement scene – similar I would think to stepping out onto another planet!

In approaching retirement, I wondered exactly what kind of adventure lay before me … Would I sleep in every morning? Catch up on reading the myriad of books and magazines which have been patiently awaiting my “spare time”? Travel extensively? Would I carpool grandchildren around to all their many activities? (Actually, this option never really made it to the list!) Maybe I would get into the best physical shape of my life now that I had so much “free” time to devote?

Well, as many of you may know who have had similar situations my “retirement” has not been very retiring! Managing an organization consulting business along with teaching fitness classes and nutrition seminars, as well as writing for publications and serving as an officer in the DAR organization and nonprofit boards have taken much of my time though fortunately allowing for other volunteer activities and quality time with family and our pets! Publishing one book and working on another is a both a daunting task and one in which I rejoice.

As many of us “baby boomers” are recently retired or planning to retire from our lifelong professions or jobs, I hope that you will resist any temptation to spend much time in the recliner or on the sofa and look around to see how you can benefit from pursuing goals and interests which will keep you healthier, more active, and more engaged in your communities. Some of those activities may be income-generating and some will not; either option or a balance will benefit you.

You may wish to take classes or use your skills and expertise to teach classes, spend time with young children or the not-so-young, volunteer at the Humane Society to help them socialize the pets up for adoption, look for volunteer opportunities at your church or synagogue, or perhaps even work part-time trying something new and different.

Reflect on the goals and excitement of your youth. Find a photo of yourself when you were young – 7, 12, 15 – whenever you were joyful and excited about the world, and place that photo in a frame where you will see it often and be reminded that you are still that person who can pursue what you once dreamed.

I will remind you that the first item on your list should be a full physical if you have not had one recently. Take care of any acute or chronic issues which you may be facing. With your physician’s approval, streamline your eating plan, get rid of sugar and processed food items, improve your strength and flexibility, and challenge your mind and intellect. Remember, life IS work: continue the work of life every day and you will receive the benefit of a life well-nourished and well-lived.

Just as every day is new with the sunrise, let us greet a life change with optimism, resourcefulness, and joy!

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.