72 and doing good.

by Jim
(Bradenton, fl)

In 1978 I needed some serious surgery. It shocked me, opened my eyes and forced me to look at myself and open my eyes.

I lost 30 pounds, stopped smoking, changed diet and began working out. Fitness became a hobby of sorts. I joined a gym, lifted weights and began jogging.

As I turned 50 I began to notice some soreness and injuries and began yoga. The injuries and soreness went away and I began to notice an improved sense of wellness. Back, hips, legs---just felt better?

I also noticed that running seemed to cause problems (doing about 30 miles a week). I substituted walking and machines for running and increased my yoga practice to almost a daily routine.

At 55 I retired. No hobbies! What to do? You can exercise only so much. I was a teacher, so I looked into becoming a yoga teacher--found it doable--and got my teaching certificate (in a class of 20-year-olds).

Now at 72 I teach several classes a week, go to workshops and continue with a fitness program. Medically--nothing bothers me, I lightly jog four miles once or twice a week, have added HIIT and TRX. I'm not an athlete---but I feel like one!

Ram Dass has an interesting view on successful aging: Learn to be alone without being lonely. It's not about "being busy"--its finding meaning--looking forward.