Growing Older With Grace

With aging, comes many changes in your body as well as your mind. This may seem scary, but it doesn't have to be. As I approach 60, my priorities are changing. Valuable portions of my life are more valuable and those frivolous things in my life, not so much.

"Staying young" doesn't mean that we're turning into Benjamin Button, but doing things now to slow the aging process is a smart idea. Neighbors of mine have faced serious health issues that have caused them to move where their family can take care of them. They never seemed to challenge their bodies or minds and are paying the price for it now.

Our bodies seem to slow down and every ache and pain makes us realize just how old we're getting. This doesn't need to be the case if you choose to move around. Make that conscious decision to get your body moving. Leg lifts, arm lifts, marching in place, all good movements but you have to do them. Don't let your body become your downfall in the aging process, make those changes today.

Keeping our mind active is also an important part of slowing the aging process. Be sure to read, or listen to books on CD's, you can do this while taking a walk thereby killing two birds with one stone. Please don't take this literally! Your entire body is working together to become stronger. Volunteer, it really helps stimulate your mind when you're helping someone else, besides making your heart feel so good. You don't want to be that old person you see struggling in the mall, and you don't have to be.

Be sure to check with your family physician before you try any exercise program, you don't want to hurt yourself. Most doctors will tell you that walking is good because you are not putting a lot of strain on your joints. Water aerobics is even less strain, so if you have a pool available to use, use it! Start slow and work up to what feels comfortable.

I've chosen not to let "Old Age" become who I am. But, to take hold of what life I might have left and make the very most of it. You can do this too! Let the aging process enter your life gracefully and without regret on your part.

Gracefully aging, now that's for me.

To read more stories about the aging process visit Marion's website.