Live Longer, Live Stronger

Did you know that those of us who are physically active, emotionally stable, conscientious, happy, and relaxed live longer? As we age, our body, mind, and relationships evolve as well. We may become more aware of our decline in certain things—less mobility, a few more aches and pains, lower energy, and decreased confidence. Our bodies are aging and changing, so we have to adapt. Being realistic and optimistic is the key. Aging successfully is not just about physical well-being but also about maintaining a positive attitude, staying active, and embracing the journey with confidence. Your outlook on life and your situation matters most. With the right mindset, you can accomplish your goals, enhance your quality of life, and continue to grow stronger at any age.

Ways To a Healthier Lifestyle

Aging successfully goes beyond simply being comfortable and safe—it’s about building self-esteem, confidence, a positive outlook, and the motivation to stay active and energized. Taking small, consistent steps is the key. By making simple yet meaningful changes, you can build strength in both body and mind, enhancing your overall health and quality of life.

Get off the couch: Guess what?  You can begin exercising at any age and it doesn’t have to be boring! Choose any physical activity you like – from dancing to gardening, walking, hiking or running, there are unlimited possibilities to choose from. By exercising and being active you will increase your energy, metabolism, and live a healthier life. 

Boost your mood: Getting your body moving and doing an activity that you enjoy will lift your spirits and improve your mood.

Strengthen your bones: Strength training with weights and weight-bearing exercises will help keep your bones strong and reduce the risk of falls and fractures by improving muscle strength and flexibility. Increasing mobility and agility further enhances balance and coordination, making accidents less likely.

Keep socially engaged: Walking or hiking with a friend, playing golf, or joining a group dance class can make your workout time more enjoyable. Exercising with others not only adds an element of fun but also strengthens social bonds and boosts your mood.

Eat healthy: Incorporate lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into your meals. Eating smaller portions throughout the day helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and keeps your metabolism steady. Remember, your food is your fuel.

Sleep well: Be sure to get an adequate amount of sleep and make sure your activities before bedtime are calming and relaxing. 

Challenge your brain: Keeping your cognitive skills sharp is crucial. You want to stay alert, remember things, and share your memories and knowledge with others. Great ways to do this include board games, puzzles, trivia, bingo, and more. It’s fun and exciting to learn something new, whether it’s dancing or another physical activity that gets both your mind and body working together. Sound mind, sound body. 

A Balanced Approach to Aging

A well-rounded lifestyle and mindset go hand in hand in your journey to a healthier, more fulfilling life as you age. While it’s clear that strength training and cardio offer significant benefits, studies show they can also help increase life expectancy and enhance independence in later years. Maintaining muscle strength and incorporating a balanced fitness routine—stretching, strengthening, and aerobic exercises—are key to longevity. At the same time, conscious aging encourages embracing the aging process with a sense of purpose and joy, shedding society’s expectations and focusing on what truly matters. Together, these concepts empower you to age not just with strength and vitality, but with a renewed sense of purpose and a positive outlook.

It is important that we learn to accept ourselves as we age and let go of what society deems “appropriate.” What if you could look at the aging process with joy and expectancy? Here are some suggestions on how to view aging in a more positive light. 

• Practice self-acceptance
• Make friends with people of all ages. 
• Prioritize learning
• Stay active 
• Define your own path

Our strength comes from within. I always tell my students that you can maintain your strength and even become stronger, no matter your age. It takes hard work, consistency, and believing in yourself, knowing that you can achieve whatever you set your mind and body to. As seniors, we are in a stage of life where we can take time for ourselves and truly enjoy our Golden Years. Be healthy, be happy!

This article was originally published the The Ventura Breeze