In a recent captivating Instagram video, Sheila Nollert, who runs the account @grandma_moves, begins with a serene scene of herself sipping tea in a rocking chair, wrapped in a cozy blanket while engrossed in a book. The words on-screen state, “Society says senior years look like this.” She quickly responds with an emphatic, “Nope!”
With a swift motion, she sets her teacup down, rises, and sheds her blanket to reveal athletic attire and running shoes. She tips over the rocking chair with her heel and happily strides into the woods for an energetic workout. The accompanying caption urges viewers: “Don’t fall for the idea that your later years mean … well, the end. They are just beginning. Society doesn’t know the truth; just keep moving!”
This dynamic clip encapsulates the driving philosophy behind Nollert’s messages shared through @grandma_moves. It’s a compelling reminder that it’s common to postpone joy and enriching activities, believing there might be a more suitable time ahead or that our prime years have elapsed.
However, embracing the present moment can provide numerous mental and physical rewards, and doing so may be simpler than you think.
Stop Waiting
Contemporary society is rife with ageist attitudes, from relentless advertisements for anti-aging products to the common practice of remarking that someone “looks good for their age.”
Though awareness of ageism is growing, these stereotypes, as pointed out by Nollert, continue to suppress older individuals, making them feel discouraged from participating in activities often associated with youth. By resigning ourselves to these perceptions, we confine our potential and lose out on chances for personal development, fitness enhancement, and social connections.
“Consider wanting to hike,” Nollert suggests, “but then thinking, ‘Oh, I’m 70; I can’t!’ That hike could have been a chance to enhance your balance, mobility, and endurance while immersing in nature’s beauty. By opting out, you’re missing those benefits.”
Establish Long-Term Goals
Creating and pursuing long-term goals can serve as a powerful motivator, ensuring that you don’t overlook opportunities to experience joy and personal growth.
If a specific goal seems out of reach, Nollert, currently drafting a book about a solo canoeing adventure she postponed for four years due to fear, advises dividing it into smaller, manageable tasks.
For instance, if you’ve always dreamed of running a half-marathon but now find running daunting, perhaps you could start with strength training to make running feasible again. Alternatively, consider walking the half-marathon or attempting a shorter 10 km route.
“Choices create opportunities,” Nollert emphasizes. “Staying engaged with our aspirations and dreams is the most significant thing we can do.”
Seniors in Canada report higher satisfaction levels in their lives compared to other age demographics.
Seize the Day
In addition to planning for the long-term, it’s vital to savor the small moments each day. Nollert embraces a guiding principle: “Every day is a vacation day.” This philosophy can resonate with anyone, regardless of whether they are in the workforce or relishing retirement. It encourages taking time for even minor activities that can make a day feel unique.
“Consider making a date with the sunrise,” Nollert suggests. “Even on a cloudy day, seize the opportunity to appreciate the horizon and be present. [If] winter makes it difficult to rise early, light a candle during breakfast.”
For those who aren’t morning people, Nollert offers numerous suggestions; a few include:
· Enjoy your coffee in a travel mug at a park before starting work or pause to admire a lovely garden.
· Read a single page of a book before departing home.
· Take a new route home or change where you sit during dinner to refresh your outlook and break the routine.
· Spend a moment in silence in your room after work before preparing dinner for your family.
Even a task like walking your dog can be a source of enjoyment if we permit it. “Reframe it from being a chore and take in your surroundings—the colors of leaves, the gentle breeze, and the sounds of birds. Feel the earth beneath your feet. Just enjoy it,” advises Nollert.
For your next getaway, consider partaking in joy therapy, which involves intentionally pursuing happiness through enjoyable activities and relationships.
In addition to mindfulness practices or enjoying the outdoors, you can also explore an increasing number of wellness retreats focused on helping guests rediscover joy.
At Rancho La Puerta in Mexico, for instance, Barry Shingle, director of guest relations and programming, highlights that the goal is to offer guests a chance to detach from external distractions and reconnect with their joyful selves. This may include avoiding mobile phones, spending time tending to gardens, participating in movement classes, or attending live music performances.
