When you think of getting older, what are the images, ideas and thoughts that come to mind? Do you imagine more travel, a change in career, or a new place to call home?
Healthy Aging Month, enacted over 20 years ago and observed throughout the month of September, first started as an initiative by Editor-In-Chief of Healthy Aging Magazine, Carolyn Worthington. With the stigma and myths that surround getting older, Worthington set out to construct a new narrative, teaching adults over 45 how to enhance their physical, mental, social and financial well-being.
“Who says you can’t start your own home business later in life? Why not choose a new athletic goal (5K anyone?), or do something wildly different from anything you’ve done before?” -Carolyn Worthington
Make Exercise a Part of Your Daily Life
And no, we’re not saying to take a 5-mile run everyday. Do whatever you feel attracted to, whether it be yoga, spin class, or even a brisk walk. Regular exercise benefits our bodies in extraordinary ways, keeping our body and minds in tip top shape as we age with grace. In the 2019 Boston Marathon, 46% of runners were over the age of 45, so what excuse are you currently telling yourself?
Have a Dream Destination in Mind?
Stop dreaming and do it. Travel is often the catalyst to new ideas, realizations and shifts in our lives. If you’ve had a particular trip in mind for a while, it’s your intuition trying to show you something.
Surround Yourself With Positive Folks
Complainers, judgers, gossipers – ya don’t need em’ in your life. Hangout with people that lift you up, focus on gratitude and encourage you to maintain a happy attitude.
Curious About a New Hobby You’ve Been Eyeing for Some Time?
Take the plunge and go for it. You literally have nothing to lose. Fun fact: Julia Child worked in media and advertising until writing a cookbook at age 49, sending her life trajectory into a completely new career as a celebrity chef.
Join a New Social Group or Join a Volunteer Group
There are plenty of great online resources and Facebook groups available to find a group that interests you. You’ll meet new friends though the process, and get to talk about things you have shared interests in. Friendships become increasingly important to our health and wellbeing as we age.
Whatever you decide to pursue as you age with grace, we hope it’s full of adventure, novel ideas and chapters worth writing about.
