(7/2019) I have written about the importance of an active lifestyle in almost every article because it is so essential to a long, healthy way of life. Changing seasons and weather can affect how we feel. When the time changes and it gets dark early we tend to sit watching TV more. During the summer when it stays daylight longer it is easier to get more exercise.

Sitting is the fastest way to lose energy, flexibility, strength and a sharp mind. Leading a sedentary lifestyle is an easy habit to develop but will take away your ability to live the life you enjoy very quickly. We all have to make adjustments in our workload and activity level as we get older but that doesn’t mean sitting in your favorite chair all day watching TV. Getting a little more sleep and maybe taking a few more short breaks during the day is natural as we age. We find we cannot keep going as long or working as hard as we use to but definitely not sitting and watching the world go buy.

Retirement is a time to enjoy the hobbies we always wanted to do but did not have the time while working, enjoying more time with family and friends and just taking a little time for ourselves. Doing all the things I just mentioned can keep our bodies moving and healthy, even if we slow down just a bit. I realize sometimes health problems affect how much we can do and may slow us down faster than we anticipated. Even if you find yourself facing something you did not intend, try to find a way to keep motivated and do whatever you can to get some exercise. Moving will usually help you feel better and get back on your feet a little faster, even if you can only start slowly.

Getting older cannot be slowed down but feeling older definitely can. Regular exercise like walking, swimming, dancing and golfing will keep your muscles and bones in good shape. Going to the gym or meeting friends for an outing will keep you active in both body and mind. Seniors who participate in organized activities like going to the senior centers, playing cards, bowling or anything that gets you out of the house and involved with others seem to have more energy and feel younger.

Many people who sit at home and do not interact with others find themselves feeling depressed and loosing the energy and mobility they use to have. The best advice I have ever heard for someone who is thinking about retiring is to make a plan for what you are going to do. Be sure to have a hobby or something that will keep you busy and engaged in life. I know it sounds great to have nothing to do and be able to just relax but I also know that a person can feel lost when they wake up one morning and have no job to go to. All of a sudden you feel you have no purpose and realize you don't know what to do now.

Everything I have been writing is not just geared toward seniors. Everybody, no matter what age needs to exercise and lead an active lifestyle in order to keep their health thriving. Children, teens, adults and seniors will all benefit from keeping busy and moving. The sooner you start moving the longer you will be able to live the active life you enjoy and be able to keep going with ease as you age.

If you have any questions or need help getting started, please call me 717-334-6009, or via e-mail at fitness@emmitsburg.net