Silver and Gold Magazine Spring 2016 | Page 26

silvergoldmagazine.ca WELL-BEING SLOWING DOWN AFTER 50? – By Karen Bascom If you spend time around younger kids, you have probably noticed their energy – they never seem to walk when they can run, skip or twirl. And if they stop, it’s a full stop, and they’re asleep in minutes. Then they go to daycare, and to school, and eventually to work. They are taught to “sit down and focus!” Forty-five years later and we find ourselves overweight, having a tough time sleeping – and finding the grandkids a challenge! Or maybe we’re dealing with aging parents, and beginning to think about the effects of time... Did you ever wonder if any of these effects might just not be the effects of age? Maybe they’re the result of a lack of exercise. Regular moderate exercise has a long list of benefits: • Improved mobility and stamina; • Prevention of bone loss; For women just like us. • Improved balance and flexibility; • Lowered risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure... or reduced impact if you already are living with any of these; • Reduced loss of muscle and gain of fat; • Improved memory, creativity, resilience and mental sharpness; • Improved sleep; and • Significantly improved fit in your clothes and appearance in the mirror! Exercise when you’re over 40 or 50, or even 60 or 70 is not only possible, it’s highly recommended! If you haven’t been exercising recently, or if you have a chronic health condition, get clearance from your doctor before you start. Be guided by his or her advice, and then get going! Starting a successful routine depends to a large extent on two factors: Finding a variety of activities you enjoy, and having an exercise friend. You don’t have to join a fitness club, although that can make it easier for you to try a new activity, get the ‘push’ to get going, all while making new and supportive friends! Take a walk. Get in the pool. Take up yoga. Go dancing! The important thing is to get started, and it’s never too late. • The secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age. - Lucille Ball Free trial ~ Call us today! Exercise in an open, airy, clean space, with a variety of exercise equipment. Comraderie & peer support are free! 3018 Winston Churchill Blvd. (between Oakville & Mississauga, just off Dundas) Go [