Wellness News

If you're aging, count your blessings
By Angelena Craig

Originally published in Daily News of Newburyport.

I hear the remarks of some of my friends, especially those turning 50 or 60: "I'm not as young as I used to be. Maybe I'd better start paying attention."

It is true they are growing older. So am I, and so are you. We don't normally address this somewhat disturbing truth until we start noticing one or more of the following telltale signs:

• We feel less than flexible in our bodies.
• We look older, less attractive to our eyes.
• We notice we have less energy than before.
• We get our first pair of reading glasses.
• We feel more aches and pains in our body.
• We have developed some disagreeable ailment.
• We can't help noticing our minds also aging. We forget things.

I recently led an adult education workshop called "How to Slow Down the Aging Process." As we explored all the components we need to consider as we age, the participants wanted to learn something about what it means to age in a good way.

Together, we explored the best ways to exercise safely and what to do about stress, the biggest aging factor of all (and the number one killer). We looked at the recommended foods to eat, the supplements to take and our attitudes. We discussed the judgments each of us has made around getting older, and how we regard moving into the "elder" years, which are revered in most cultures, but, sadly, not ours.

We divided a large sheet of paper in half. On one side, we listed all the losses we may experience growing older. The list of 18 items was momentarily daunting and we gave thought to the idea of just throwing in the towel.

Quickly, we moved on to generate a list of all the possible gains - the positive aspects of aging. We managed to find 23 wonderful parts of this aging business.

The first thing we identified is what everyone always notices: we care less about what others think of us. We went on to add that we have more self-awareness, and are generally more conscious of our words, thoughts and deeds. We tend to be more assertive, especially about asking for what we need. We take better care of ourselves. There is more time for us to be creative, more time to spend with friends and loved ones, and.more time to travel.

Our lives begin to be reviewed with a sense of history, so that we come to better terms with what is real and sustaining for us. We are more forgiving, empathetic and compassionate, even about ourselves. We are definitely wiser and reach for the deeper meanings of life. We take it easier, putting things more into perspective, and therefore, many of us tend to be calmer. Our spiritual life is more in our spotlight. We are less materialistic, and more interested in a soulful approach to life and in healing all our relationships. We have become more of who we truly are.

Now, when we look in the mirror or climb on the scale, we can think about our blessings. We can allow these positive aspects to.motivate us to live a healthier life, addressing the three most important parts of staying young while growing older - to keep moving,nourish ourselves well,and recognize and reduce our stress. It is a matter of commitment and taking responsibility for ourselves, knowing very well that if we don't care of ourselves, who will?

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