You're more than the sum of your parts

TINA Y. GERBER-MCCURLEY Special to The Standard

I have said this many times, God didn't promise you a life without pain, struggle or hardships. He did, however, promise to give you strength to get through it.

It is important to keep those parts working properly by remaining active. Keeping body parts active as you age is essential to maintaining your independence, helping to reduce pain, and preventing further injuries.

Since my visit to the hospital, last December, I will admit, I continue to struggle both physically and emotionally. My hearing has not fully returned; my balance is off; my arms and shoulders are weak; and sleep eludes me, as I wait for physiotherapy. I know physical activity plays an important role in good health, well-being, and quality of life. I have started slowly regaining my strength, focusing on muscles groups: legs, back, shoulders, and arms.

I also purchased a recliner, to assist with sleeping, and it has made a huge difference, to feeling rested.

Every step helps. Adding any amount of physical activity will bring some health benefits and this is beneficial when adding muscle and bone strengthening activities. I have remained active by packing boxes for our move, doing general house chores, and walking. In addition, I maintain the discipline of thinking positively and, of course, daily prayer. Depression, boredom, loneliness, and anxiety can cause mental health problems. Lifestyle factors and feelings of low energy can cause fatigue, stress, or feeling burnout.

As you age, getting up and moving daily, doing regular exercise, and a proper diet helps support muscles and strengthen bones.

Maintaining social activities, and staying mentally active, for both physical and cognitive longevity, is key. It's also good to schedule regular health screenings, keep up with doctors' appointments, practice relaxation techniques, stop smoking, and limit your alcohol consumption. Ensuring you are getting enough vitamins and adequate hydration, as this changes with age, is also very important. Living better means, enjoying life with less pain and staying engaged. This provides opportunity to discover continued purpose in your life. Finding purpose helps keep your mind strong and makes life feel meaningful.