Worldwide people are living longer, but many of these additional years in the human lifespan is spent in ill health. People have generally accepted that as we grow older, we will suffer lifestyle diseases such as blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, etc. But is this necessarily true? Do we really have to suffer as we age or can we choose better health and vitality in our golden years?
For me, aging is a mindset. I look at aging as a time of greater wisdom and fulfillment. I see it a gift and a privilege, and I feel everyone should understand and prepare their bodies to maximize their energy and vitality to enjoy lifelong youth. The health outcomes of our later years are based on how well or badly we have treated our bodies and mind. What have we done to create an environment of wellbeing that allows us to age well? Is it too late to start a modification now, many people in their mid years will ask? Remember it’s never too late to begin. Even if you are 60 and have been smoking for 40 years and lead a sedentary life now… it doesn’t matter, you can still start and still ensure that you reduce health risks and reverse the harm you have done to your body.
It’s not easy to live a healthy life. It’s a choice you make every single day. Whether its everyday habits or the thoughts that you have throughout the day… you must learn to live with more awareness of what you are choosing to subject yourself to. Championing an approach to healthy and active ageing includes a few key components such as working on self awareness, daily practice of meditation, creating a social and emotional support system that includes family and friends, staying active, exercising daily, taking vitamins and supplements regularly, going for regular checkups, enjoying a good night’s sleep, and having the ability to be curious and enjoy new experiences.
You may notice people who look much younger than their age or carry a youthful energy despite their years, and wonder what it is that makes them so… It’s really simple, they love life and they treat themselves well. They choose to stay sharp, active, hard working and happy, and it shows. So join your granddaughter at the gym or start a hobby club in the neighborhood, or a book a flight to that destination you always wanted to see… remember age is just a number if you know how to do it right.
Sandesh Palungwa Limbu, Certified professional fitness instructor, founder of RAGE Fitness, and specialises in mixed martial arts.
