....if you don't mind, it doesn't matter.
A recent study published in the Journal of Aging sheds a little new light on the concept of aging gradually. The study showed that people actually experience a distinct acceleration of aging markers at the age of 44 and then again at the age of 60. If you’ve passed those barriers you would probably agree.
The study monitored a number of indicators but the two most notable physical ramifications were the unintended accumulation of fat at the 44 barrier and then the loss of muscular mass at the 60 barrier. So, that alarming feeling of suddenly being “older” is real– but you probably already knew that.
There were a few suggestions to combat the sudden aging. Drinking a lot of water stays high on the list. Guess what number 1 was at both age barriers— EXERCISE, and EXERCISE. Another reminder to keep moving as much as reasonably possible no matter how old, or young, you are.
Again, exercise means moving around with some pace for cardiovascular health and using your muscles to maintain strength. And yes, yardwork counts. So does housework, and washing the car, and walking the dog, and sweeping the porch, etc. Just keep going if you can. It’s so simplistic, but it’s so true.
Let the Satchel Paige quote above sink in for a minute. He is also attributed with this nugget, “Aging is a matter of mind over matter, if you don’t mind, it don’t matter.” Beautifully stated.
Make a commitment to your health today.
Stay well adjusted,
Dr. Dan Kammer