Bay Shore NY
4-28-2022 8:09pm

Embracing Aging

When you look in the mirror, what do you see? At 60 and beyond, most of us see more lines in our face, thinning hair, and a thicker waistline. But that doesn't have to be a bad thing. It's inevitable, and it's a privilege to grow older. Many people are less fortunate. 

During the COVID-19 lockdown, I put on ten pounds. You too? Everything feels tighter. So, in mid-February, I decided to shift the way I was eating. I cut all my portions in half and have a salad every day for lunch filled with tuna, fresh fruit, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. It's become my morning ritual to prepare as I pour myself a cup of coffee. I even cut down on chocolate. I have a mean sweet tooth. I've lost five pounds so far, but I want to lose much more. On average, that's about 2.5 pounds a month. At this rate, I should be down 30 pounds by next February, just in time for Valentine's Day candy. 

Fad diets don't work, but time does. We've all heard slow and steady wins the race. Since Spring feels a bit delayed this year, I haven't walked as much. It's been chilly. That's going to change because I realize I'm not moving enough, and we all know that exercise is a great way to trim down. I don't have any interest in joining a gym. I did that for years. I do love yoga and walking, so I'm going to increase that. My bathing suit is waiting. I hope it's a little looser than last year. Time will tell.

Peace and Love,

Skylark

I am a columnist with Skylark Live Town News (SLTN) and write short, poetic articles about human interest, nature, general observations, inspiration, and daily life in and around Bay Shore. Please subscribe to my free newsletter that will be delivered directly to your email each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. To support the SLTN community, you can make a recurring monthly donation as a Friend ($5) or Advocate ($15). You can also advertise your business or event here. It's easy and convenient to do. I am also an advocate for people 60 and beyond. These years can be transformative, but they require focus, determination, and planning. I have a first Monday-of-the-month motivational vlog that is designed to inspire people to thrive as they age through knowledge and self-awareness. Please follow me on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin under my brand, Skylark Live. Thank you for your support.
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5-09-2022 10:39am

Christine, I have FINALLY realized that the words "slow but steady wins the race" are very true. I have ALWAYS tried to lose the weight by "the summer", "the wedding", "my birthday". it has never worked. I even bought a dress for my daughter's wedding 2 sizes smaller and when the salesgirl discouraged me from doing it, I didn't listen and I had her order me the dress 2 sizes smaller in hopes I would lose the weight. I did NOT lose the weight, in fact i gained and....I had to buy ANOTHER dress for her wedding. After all these years, I get it. I have stopped putting pressure on myself to lose 50 pounds in 5 mos. If I can lose 4 pounds a month I'd be happy because that means that I am doing it slowly and it will most likely stay off. You know what they say about the definition of insanity "doing the same thing over and over and expected a different result". So thank you for this article, it confirms what I have FINALLY learned to accept. 

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