Don't let your age define what you can or can't do

By Agnes Ramsay
June 19, 2022

Years ago, a client told me that she and her husband had decided to sell their home where they had raised their children, invested time, energy and finances into making it “perfect,” including a beautiful sunroom where they enjoyed morning coffee, evening reading and looked out on lovely, low-maintenance perennial gardens.

Her reply when I asked why genuinely shocked me. At 60, she was anticipating that they would no longer be capable of doing the upkeep and was especially worried that they soon would not be able navigate the stairs.

Physical limitations

I get it. Downsizing makes sense. Why have unnecessary space requiring upkeep, or perhaps you physically cannot, or finances are tight.
But what I was noticing was a trend to what I have termed “anticipatory disability.”

Neither my client nor her husband were physically incapable, but were anticipating that they would become “less able.” The truth is, many of us do struggle with physical limitations. Bad backs, knee issues and arthritis are realities of aging. Both my husband and I have some of each.

However, it is essential to continue to work your body to keep muscle tone. My mother never stepped foot in a gym. Her workout was managing the home and gardens and walking everywhere. Her body was strong to her last breath at 99.

Physical and mental health

A year-and-half ago, my husband and I moved from a suburban home to a sprawling century home on almost an acre, when I was 59 years of age.
It was a dream for me. I love century homes, and had always wanted one that had good bones, so I could give it new life. I’ve wanted to grow my own veggies, to be in nature with outdoor activities a step away, to have room to host our friends and family.

Before moving, much of my time was spent at my computer for work. My physical and mental health was starting to struggle.

I know that studies strongly support being outside, as it can lead to significant health benefits, including improved blood pressure, boost in mental health and decreased cancer risk. I wanted to be somewhere that was conducive to promoting this lifestyle.

So, I’ve built raised gardens boxes, moved dirt, gravel, furniture, run countless times up and down the three level of stairs, planned and executed renovations inside and out, and hosted many family and friends.

Is it all rainbows and butterflies? Of course not. And when it gets to be too much, we will move.

Mentally stronger

In the meantime, I am still working, so I take breaks and get outside almost every day. That is why they make raincoats and down jackets. Even if I don’t feel like it, I tell myself I’m only going to weed the one garden bed, or walk around the block; once I’m out, it always amounts to more.
Consequently, I am mentally stronger than I ever have been, and physically I feel decades younger. My time in front of the computer is also more productive, so it is a win-win.

To be clear, I’m not advising you to do this. It’s not your dream (and always remember, not to start a physical program without the approval of your family doctor).

I am only saying don’t let the number of your years define what it is you can or can’t do. Don’t let fear hold you back. After all, we told our children they could be anything they wanted to be.

Conquering fear

Maybe building a garden box isn’t your journey, but walking your local trail system is. Start today. Even if it’s just one small step at a time. Start slow and build it up. If your knees are a problem, stay on a flat surface and wear a brace. Go at an easy pace to start, but slowly push yourself and know that the reward of conquering a physical or mental fear is just as rewarding now, as it was so many years ago.

About Agnes Ramsay

Agnes Ramsay is a Registered Nurse, Personal Trainer and Wellness Coach who specializes in Electric Muscle Stimulation Training. agnes.ramsay@xbodyworld.com

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