People often ask if the loss of mobility, flexibility and vitality is just a normal aging process. The answer is a definite no. Aging does not have to result in physical limitations. I went to a senior citizens residence recently and was surprised to find most of the residents were gathered in the dining room. They were having the weekly Saturday night dance. As couple after couple flowed by me I recognized one pair of excellent dancers. They were patients of mine who were both in their 80’s. They were really agile and lively dancers.
Were they just lucky that the aging process had not limited their activity, or was there a secret to their obvious vitality? I believe they are a perfect example of people who don’t let age result in physical limitations.
Good Posture and Aging
The aging process starts first in the mind. Some people begin early in life to limit their activity because of pain or what they perceive may cause pain. Some people limit their activity due to past injuries. The injury causes abnormal movement patterns which actually result in pain. Many other people eliminate activity just because they think it will cause discomfort. In some cases the only limitations we have are those we place on ourselves. Youth is a feeling not an age. Think young and be young.
The second part of staying young is to look young. Good posture and an erect stature will add a lot to our youthful appearance. Being aware of the affects of posture and aging will lead to efforts to improve balance, coordination and function. Strengthening posture and synchronized bodily movement make us look and feel more youthful.
Posture can be improved at any age. Don’t force good posture. Keep you body in a relaxed, natural posture by learning easy stretches and exerices. Partner with a good posture focused exercise professional (CPEP) and find how to improve your appearance and bodily function.
To remain mobile and enjoy an active lifestyle the third consideration is to remain physically active. If we give up exercise as we age our muscles become weak and our joints become stiff. To change these outcomes start with a good exercise plan. No exercise is going to make us younger, but they can certainly make us look and feel younger.
Regular exercise such as walking, biking, swimming or the Saturday night dance at the senior center will keep you aerobically conditioned. Other exercises to improve posture,balance, core strength, range of motion or specific areas of your body will greatly enhance our ability to remain active and enjoy the lifestyle we want as age.
