The Oaks at Ojai (California)
Stop it right now! Those thoughts of getting older can actually be making you feel and act older. Do you really want to get to know Father Time that well? Sure we might want to slow up a bit as we get older, but who really wants to show his or her age? We can do oodles of things to achieve a higher quality of life with each passing day. If we intervene with the aging process we can actually feel like kids again. Here's how:
*Walk like a kid. There's a theory that those people who "shuffle" their feet are more prone, in later years, to developing Alzheimer's disease. Any proof to it? I simply don't know, but I do know that those who don't have a youthful, bouncy gate do LOOK older. Have you checked your walking style lately? Ask a friend to video you as you walk around the back yard or the house? Or simply check your reflection in a department store window.
The reason for shuffling can be ill-fitting or uncomfortable shoes. When was the last time you checked your shoes and replaced worn ones? Most likely, shuffling occurs because you're not getting enough exercise to condition the body to improve the strength of the muscles in your legs. To walk like a kid again especially if you've not been active in a while (or are helping an older loved one get back in shape) start to walk just ten minutes twice a day. Make your goal to walk briskly for 50 minutes every day.
It sounds silly, but as you walk, think about your feet. Pick them up as you move along. You'll want to swing your arms and when you're ready to up this program, walk as fast as you would if you were late for an appointment.
*Eat like a kid. Be picky about food. Don't fill up on fries and burgers, cookies and chips. Jam pack meals with fresh fruit, lots of low-fat protein, and the grains that keep your body regular. Be selective about the foods you're eating and turn down treats that don't support and nourish the kid in you. Crinkle your nose, if you like, and say, "I don't eat that."
*Think like a kid. Kids are never afraid to try something new, from a
first-time ride on a two-wheeler to deciding to become a famous cartoonist. It's been proven that if we challenge our minds and bodies throughout our lives, we will stay more youthful. Kids color outside the lines. You can too, at least in theory, but taking workshops and classes on things you want to know about, but never had time to learn. You can volunteer, if you have time, so that you're meeting new people and helping others. You can learn
new skills at any age if you have the desire. Heck, you can buy a big box of crayons and a color book if you want. I won't tell.
*Play like a kid. Take up a sport or activity that will get you out with
others and give your muscles a workout. Mall walkers, beachcombers, golfers, and long-distance walkers who call themselves "Volksmarchers" play at fitness. If think you're too old to join in, you probably are. Make room, however, for those who don't believe they're too old for anything. These folks have learned to be kids.
*Dress like a kid. Wear the clothing that fits your sport and body style. Frumpy has never been in fashion, yet somewhere along the way, many of us were told that when we reach 50 or 60 or 70 we should wear this or that. Give me a break. I'm a proud grandmother and I definitely wear clothing that my own grandmother would have been scandalized by. But it makes me feel grand. Give it a try-you're probably the only one holding you back. And if your kids make a fuss, remind them of some of their younger fashion faux pas.
Age intervention is really a fancy way to remind us that we have control of this process. No kidding. We are in charge of our minds and our bodies, as we stay fit for life.
