This is a guest blog by Susan St. Angelo, an Indianapolis Personal Styling client and former consultant who helped me lose weight! Follow her at:
Susie St. Angelo
317-590-8723
https://my.practicebetter.io/#/63ffa6b3681bce4c01888756/profile
Indianapolis Personal Styling Guest Blog – Not Your Mom’s 60
Today’s 60-year-old is not your mom’s 60-year-old. I say that because my mom had four kids in 10 years, smoked since she was in high school, and died at 65 of lung cancer. At first, it haunted me to think I was approaching 5 years from the same age as my mom’s death. But my doctor told me at 59 that I am NOT my mom. Genetics make up 20%, and lifestyle accounts for 80 percent. Wow, what a relief to hear this news!
If you don’t know me, you might not guess that I am 60. I don’t feel it. I don’t think I look it. I don’t dress old. I don’t think old. At 60, I am getting feedback that my skincare needs to change. Whaat? I wasn’t expecting that. I like what I use. Our skin changes from season-to-season and from one decade to another. Skincare was not on my list of changes to make this year. One step at a time.
Another area that I notice is changing is my eyesight. I’m in my 50th year of wearing contacts and even longer wearing glasses. The readers are in my purse and on the table where I sit. My ophthalmologist tells me that I have two cataracts now as opposed to just one. In time, I’ll have surgery and won’t need contacts and daily glasses. Another change.
Recently, I asked my doctor during my physical what I should pay attention to in this next decade. She said, “strength train and muscle”. Great! I’m already doing it. I love doing it. For those who think you are going to bulk up, beginning a strength training program is not going to accomplish it. Start small and work with someone who knows you, your limitations, and your age.
Movement is another area of importance, according to my functional medical provider. Keep moving. She didn’t say overdo it or go chasing after that pickleball. That’s where accidents happen and orthopedic doctors have fun!
Community is important too. Who do I surround myself with? Do they bring joy, comfort, fun, etc. in my life? Read any articles about aging, and experts say that your community and social life can extend your life and provide quality to your life. I’m curious and like to learn from others, and it doesn’t matter how old they are.
I’m doing 60 Firsts—new places, new food, new hobbies, new challenges during my 60th birthday year. They don’t have to cost anything. It does take some planning. When I announced it a few months prior to my birthday, I asked for ideas. While I received a few suggestions, I noticed that friends and classmates want to do them with me. It’s not about “Hey, look at me.” It’s a fact that you are never too old, and it’s never too late to do something new. The list isn’t complete, but it is started! I’m blogging about the experience. https://susiestangelo.com.
Finally, age is just a number. It doesn’t define you. It becomes you. Find what brings you purpose, joy, contentment, and love, and enjoy the journey!
Contact Beth Divine Style for Indianapolis Personal Styling Guidance
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Keep it sassy, Indy.
Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC, Personal Image Consultant
