It’s the battle cry for seniors, “KEEP MOVING AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!”
The saying goes, “there are those who make things happen, there are those who watch things happen, and there are those who sit and wonder – WHAT HAPPENED?”
It is important to keep moving. It is important to keep physically moving. It is important to emotionally keep moving, socially keep moving, intellectually keep moving and spiritually KEEP MOVING AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
PHYSICALLY – Keep moving. Keep walking. Use caution walking on uneven surfaces to minimize stumbles or falls. Protect your knees and hips by minimizing steep inclines. Begin walking 10 minutes per day progressing weekly until you enjoy an energetic 30-minutes of walking each and every day. Can’t walk? Get in the water and swim! Swimming and water aerobics are low impact and safe. The buoyancy of the water provides a level playing field for individuals who are concerned about joint issues or falling. The key here is to KEEP MOVING AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
EMOTIONALLY – Keep moving. Emotional well-being is not often addressed but it’s impact upon our lives as we grow older can be far reaching. As we age we face increased changes at an increased pace. Loved ones pass as do friends and acquaintances. Changes within our own bodies become more evident. As grandma used to say, “getting older ain’t for sissies!” Recognize the pitfalls ahead of time. Face aging today in preparation for tomorrow. Preparedness will never alleviate all the emotional stresses of aging but a healthy preparedness can minimize the duration and depth of normal grief. Remember, you are of value. You must maintain a healthy responsibility for you and your well-being. Do not lose sight of the beauties that surround you and KEEP MOVING AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
SOCIALLY – Keep moving. Stay active within your community. Volunteer and enjoy the opportunity to be of service. YOU will remain of service when your desire is to serve. Get involved in your community, Find social outlets to volunteer such as community theater, sports activities and social causes. Find and join a local church – then look for a place to serve. Talk with people you often see. This goes beyond your neighbors. Get to know the grocery clerks, the gas station attendants, the children and young adults in your area. Take a friend for coffee or tea once a week. Get involved – and KEEP MOVING AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
INTELLECTUALLY – Keep moving. Inactivity is the minds enemy. Always be in a learning mode. Think of a topic you have always wanted to know more about. Attend classes in your local Adult School or community college and learn. Travel! The wonders you will enjoy as you position yourself in the cultures of others is immeasurable. Sure, it is important to do puzzles but there is still time for life experiences! While puzzles and crosswords stimulate the brain, they can be a false reminder of a seniors vulnerabilities to passing time. So EXPERIENCE! Choose a local sports team and become a fan. Get to know the game, the rules and the players. Start cooking – or expand your cooking capabilities. The intellectual requirements for cooking preparations, appropriate quantities of ingredients and cooking variations can be a stimulating endeavor. Enjoy continued learning and KEEP MOVING AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
SPIRITUALLY – Keep moving. Above all else, recognize that we are spiritual beings with the capacity to physically, emotionally, socially and intellectually experience a relationship with God. Recognize and focus upon the beauties of life. Nurture a grateful heart, one that anticipates and appreciates the blessings of each day. Let go of those things you cannot change and change those things that cause you to never let go. Begin reading the Bible. The Book of John in the New Testament is a great place to start. Take time each and every day to meditate on what you have read and pray for guidance in your daily walk. Find a local church that preaches the Bible and has an active, vibrant Bible Study. Get personal with God – and KEEP MOVING AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
Seniors, there is no better time than right now to begin your new journey of completeness. As a matter of fact, you are right on time! Yesterday is past, tomorrow has not yet come. NOW is the perfect time to take inventory of your life KEEP MOVING AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
FORWARD!
Laurie
