AGING GRACEFULLY

In today’s times of remaining forever young, there appears to be a war on aging, evident from the plethora of products and procedures available in the market. Why a frenzy to remain young forever? Is there a crime in looking your age? Why does only youth equate to capability, intelligence, and beauty for society? Our body changes, why not embrace it and learn to be fit and healthy instead of wasting time and money on expensive potions?  

When we were small children, growing older was like an achievement, so when did this change into not looking your age? I never quite understand the antipathy towards growing old. Negative stereotypes are present more than ever and social media adds fuel to the fire. Women are judged more harshly as society devalues them as they age. Why is aging a misogynistic concept? Why do women feel proud not to look their age or do not like to reveal their age? Why have we put them into a frame? Our culture and its directive are too loud in favour of not looking your age while indirectly giving the message that aging is not desirable. 

When we see the appearance of some grey strands and some fine lines on our faces in the mirror, we miss our younger selves. The desire to pick up the potions of youth is absolutely normal as there is nothing wrong with a youthful appearance. The problem starts when we start obsessing about it and feel small without it and go into denial mode. There is no need to go down the rabbit hole of sadness about gaining a few greys or lines on your face. When we accepted the changes of puberty in our bodies why not the greys and wrinkles?

Overcoming negative stereotypes about aging is important in our society which venerates youth. Healthy and radiant should be your aim instead of obsessing about not looking your age. The feeling of awe and a sense of wonder keep us young at heart which is more important than using all the potions to look young. 

Aging well is remaining a curious child at heart and constantly learning to keep the brain young. Social interactions not only reinforce the feeling of belongingness but also deepen our bond with our loved ones which is all the more important as we age in years in life. Enriching our environment with colours, plants bring us joy and enriches our life. Gardening can take you a notch higher toward your well-being in life. Staying connected with our loved ones through the internet is using it to our advantage which promotes cognitive functions and interpersonal relationships. It is up to us to cling to our past and youth or adapt to the new world youth are creating by remaining active and curious about life.  

Aging is a natural inevitable process so why not age gracefully and joyfully instead of treating it as an aberrant crisis? Accepting the physical changes which come with age with an optimistic perspective and adapting accordingly. Make the aging process look so good that everyone awaits and does not indulge in denial mode. Why not own the lines on the face like a badge of honour, be proud of the roads you have traveled and embrace the process of aging and be content with the wisdom which you have attained? 

Pictures from Pinterest