Stay Active During Retirement

After working for 30 plus years, getting up at 3 AM, having a 6 hour commute and seeing the sun only on the weekend, I was ready for retirement. The first few days I stayed in the bed as long as possible. I ate a lot and became inactive. I was no longer walking up and down NYCTA stairs everyday or walking those long Brooklyn blocks. I watched television more than I should have.

No one told me that I had gained so much weight; well maybe I chose not to hear them. That day when I could not fit into my favorite jeans, I told myself. I was out of breath most of the time. I had five chins. I became a little depressed. Until I looked in the mirror and said “this is ridiculous”. I love me too much to allow fat to depress me, I need to do something about it. I want to be physically and mentally healthy!

It is important to stay active, especially during retirement. I am not just talking about physical activity but also keeping your brain active. You need to be involved in activities that get you up out of the bed and out of the house. Your mind needs to stay active also. Puzzles, games and reading helps to keep the brain active.

Suggested Activities

· Taking walks and enjoying the scenery

· There are many exercise videos on the internet

· Take dancing lessons

· Play music and dance at home

· Go bicycling

· Go swimming

· Learn a musical instrument

· Take a course at the community college

· Write a book

Retirement is a big change in life. Most of us have been looking forward to retiring for what may seem like forever. So why is there a high percentage of divorce, alcoholism, depression and drug abuse amongst the retired? Retirement should be a happy time. Retirement is what you make it. It is up to us to embrace the change and make the best of it. In my opinion, planning is the key.

Thank you for allowing me to share with you. I hope that you have found this beneficial.

RETIRED&LOVINIT!!!