By SHARON McMAHON
Be Well
“It bothers me when women think that they’re not allowed to look older … because that’s what I am.” – Sally Field, age 75
I don’t know how many of you remember the TV show Gidget, but it was one of my favorites in the ‘60s. I recall trying to style my hair like Sally Field but somehow it just wasn’t the same.
Today, we of course see Sally as an “older” woman who retains an aura of health and beauty. Good genes perhaps? Of course, that is a possibility and as a celebrity Ms. Field has had options of good “products and services” available to her, although she indicates she has had no surgical procedures. She states that she retains a healthy lifestyle and is as fit as she was over 40 years ago. No mean feat!
As American women, it seems we face a great deal of pressure – some obvious and some subliminal – to remain youthful, fit, and vibrant. While corralling youth is not possible, staying healthy and fit is possible and will help us to be both energetic and vibrant. Of course, comparing ourselves to celebrities, models, and those whose physical attributes equate to a career is not realistic nor is it helpful.
However, as a nutrition and fitness coach, I will say that we do have a certain amount of control over the “aging” process, both physically and mentally. As our muscles lose tone and elasticity, we must amp up our movement regimen (I won’t call it exercise!) to stay strong and flexible. Our lung capacity naturally diminishes as we age, and aerobic conditioning will improve both our lungs and our heart rate. An important part of an activity schedule is to incorporate things we enjoy; walking on a treadmill/outside depending on weather and safety factors, dancing, which can be done as a couple or with friends, line dancing, participating in a Zumba or other aerobic-style class, and sports such as swimming, tennis, golf, bowling, etc.
I find with many of my clients that they have not and don’t really wish to lift weights … may I say that this is very important to do! Lifting small weights can make a difference in muscle tone and definition, posture, and ability to retain energy. Stretching and flexibility are increasingly important for us as we age, and there are plenty of yoga classes, DVDs and other avenues to access proper stretching and movement techniques. Recent studies have shown that exercise – even movement – can possibly forestall or slow down dementia and Alzheimer’s.1
Now – the “eating plan” (remember diet should always be considered a noun, NOT a verb!) as we gracefully age … it must change. Sorry, but it is true – for both genders! As a “baby boomer” I grew up in a time where families did not constantly snack; snacks were for special occasions, thankfully. Dinners were served at home and dining out at a restaurant was … you guessed it, for special occasions!
True confessions here: I have a habit of checking out others’ grocery carts at the checkout line! (Of course, I do this very surreptitiously!) And I must tell you that I am often horrified by what I see, especially when there are obviously children in the household. Childhood obesity is skyrocketing – but that is a topic for another day.
For women, we simply must focus on providing the right balance of protein, complex carbohydrates, and hydration in our eating plan. Men – this applies to you as well!
Is all this work worth it? You bet it is! Does it sometimes seem like a “second job” – perhaps! However, instead of a “paycheck” we get a healthier, more fit and energetic life for ourselves and our loved ones. Taking care of your body and your mind will reap rewards that outpace the concerns of our aging appearance which is inevitable.
Sally is correct: we should stand tall, proud, and lovely as we mature through this earthly life. Remember, the best “face lift” of all is completely free – SMILE!
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
1 Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 2022
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.