Not many people enjoy getting old. Aging means the preconceived notion of gaining weight, contracting diseases and losing mobility. People in societies like America have this fetish with staying young as long as possible. They do whatever they can to look young; whether that be Botox, lipo-suction or excessive working out. It seems though that those who are able to stay looking young are those with the money to do so.
To prove this wrong and to help edge away from this mind set, let’s look at another culture that is not used to instant gratification. Many of the third world countries with indigenous tribes revere their elders as something to aspire to. Old age is a trophy; a sort of accomplishment saying “we look up to you because you survived this long.†Aging here in America is different. Having grey hair isn’t necessarily frowned upon, but keeping the body healthy and young is chased after.
Your body getting older is simply a part of life. It is nothing to be ashamed of. But what about all those risks and things that naturally deteriorate in your body? Well, I’ll be honest there will always be some things that cannot be helped nor prevented, but most of them can be.
Exercise: that’s the key. It’s never too late to start. Your body will react to vigorous activity at any age, although it takes a bit longer to react at an older age. Eating healthy and working out regularly will change your body for the better and could actually become a natural fountain of youth.
If you are younger, start treating your body better now. Find a workout routine that works best for you and keep it up as you age.
If you are already over the hill and up the next one, don’t worry so much. Start your workout in intervals. Take one minute every five minutes to walk at a high intensity rate for about a 20 minute walk and move on from there. You’ll get there! Just keep with it! If you need motivation, drag your partner or friends along!
Aging does not have to be “the plague.†Learn to exercise and be proud of moving your body when you reach 100!