We all wish for a long and happy retirement but for many of us approaching old age, we can also yearn for independence and the right to remain self-sufficient for as long as possible. It is however, a somewhat unfortunate reality, that this idea can be turned upside down if our healthy mind/body balance is upset:
Mental Capacity – There’s plenty of research available that shows a strong link between people that have a positive mental outlook on life and the benefits it brings to maintaining one’s physical health in old age. Developing stronger mental awareness can provide an ongoing safeguard against potential bouts of depression or anxiety. The moment you ask yourself “why me” or “it’s just not fair “ then the physical pain has also become your mental enemy. If without awareness of how the process of mind develops then the internal fight could continue, you grow angry, perhaps upset with the family that are lovingly trying to help you through stuff and, if you remain frustrated with yourself, one’s health can begin to decline.
Physical Wellbeing – If we can isolate our illness with a clear diagnosis, seek qualified medical advice and know the steps to cure the problem then we have already begun to empower ourselves and we can begin the healing process. Knowing that a problem is just physical can bring its own rewards, using spas, wellness programs, meditation practice and if guided by professionals with diet and exercise, physical difficulties can improve and can be overcome. If, in the meantime, we can break free of some of our more unhealthy habits and understand the connection between mind and body, then growing old gracefully can definitely be achieved.
Enthusiasm For Living – It can be a rather unfortunate fact of life that far too many people wait until they have had a bad accident or a major health scare to realise what we all take for granted, that nothing is permanent and life is precious indeed. The key to remaining positive is preparation, knowing our plans are in place for a less independent living gives us peace of mind that our future is the best we can make. Adequate preparations and a plan that’s approached earlier rather than later provides an opportunity to understand what it means when we use the words: to let go. Letting go doesn’t mean giving up on what we value most, it simply means not letting what pulls at our heartstrings to drag us further down the road of concerns and ill-health. It is what it is, but a lack of fear and a dose of courage can go a long way to keeping up our enthusiasm for living, for family and understanding.
