People are living longer, especially women. Growing old is a fact of life but aging gracefully is a skill that can be learned. Did you know that you can have a dramatic impact on how you age? And I'm not talking about plastic surgery either.Making healthy lifestyle choices can have a major impact on how well you age. And research shows that it's never too late to begin to exercise, stop smoking and to eat healthier. That's motivating for me because no matter how long I live, I really want to be able to take care of myself and not have to be dependent on others. How about you?
As I get older, I'm becoming more aware of the changes that are happening to me. In the past, if I gained a few pounds it was no big deal. I'd simply cut back on what I ate and exercise more and my weight would go back down. Now, it seems to take so much more effort. As I speak with friends my age, I find I'm not alone.
Have you ever heard of sarcopenia? Probably not, but I'm sure you've seen it. It's a condition that results from the physical ravages of aging on your muscles. If a person remains fairly sedentary and doesn't do regular exercise as they get older, their muscles weaken which often impacts their balance. You've probably seen many older people who begin to walk in a slow and more shuffling manner. They become quite frail. I think of the little old lady in the rocking chair. But what you need to know is that this typical pattern of aging is largely preventable.So, what do you need to do? Find some exercise that you can enjoy and just do it. Begin at a slow pace but be consistent. In future posts, I'll provide more details on the best kinds of exercise to do.
As you consider making this healthy lifestyle choice, just check out some of the benefits that exercise provides:
- Strengthens your heart
- Reduces body fat
- Improves balance and coordination
- Increases bone density
- Improves the quality of your sleep
- Improves your energy level
- Lowers your blood pressure
- Raises your good cholesterol (HDL)
- Helps you feel good
Does that sound good or what? Will you make the choice to begin exercising? How about making that commitment to yourself?
So, let's get moving and start exercising. And in the process...age gracefully!
I find, for myself, the best exercise is something that there is outside motivation for. Like my tennis partner wouldn't let me back out of a game, or my dance teacher wouldn't let me slack off on lessons. But exercise on a whole does have mind, body and spirit benefits, so it is a must!
ReplyDeleteYes, Kristi...we all need to find a way to motivate ourselves. I appreciate your thoughts on this.
ReplyDeleteExcellent!
ReplyDeleteYes, we are all aging - it's just a fact of life. Truth is, I can find a new hair style (or color), I can try different beauty products that hide some of those tell-tale signs of aging, I can even buy a body shaper that might help push it in and up. But the aches and pains cannot be hidden so well. And if you don't feel good, these other remedies do't do that much good. Thank-you for reminding me that exercise needs to be a part of my daily routine.
ReplyDeleteHi Debbie,
ReplyDeleteSo appreciate your blog!
I ventured into blogland mid June, just when I pushed past the lethargy that had entrapped me for 10 years regarding my physical challenges.
I have battled my weight all of my life, and in the past couple of decades have been obese. What a word! And what deception from the enemy that I could continue like that!
Praise God, His Holy Spirit is enabling me to limit sugar and carbs, employ portion control and begin some exercising.
Aging Gracefully...hmmm...that's what I want to do. Not only making positive changes, but learning to live with increasing physical limitations with grace and joy.
You see, I've had 3 joints replaced and need one more hip redone.
The Great News is that God uses my talents for His glory. And in His grace I have lost 40 pounds this year!
Well, this is probably more info than you'd like. Just wanted to say, your blog is very timely and a wonderful encouragement.
Thanks.