#LIFE AFTER 60#

LIFE AFTER 60

*An interesting article.*

Life can begin at 60, it is all in your hands! Many people feel unhappy, health-wise and security-wise, after 60 years of age, owing to the diminishing importance given to them and their opinions. But, it need not be so, if only we understand the basic principles of life and follow them scrupulously. Here are some mantras to age gracefully and make life after retirement pleasant.

*1. Never say I am aged' :*

There are three ages, chronological, biological, and psychological. The first is calculated based on our date of birth; the second is determined by the health conditions; the third is how old we feel we are. While we don't have control over the first, we can take care of our health with good diet, exercise and a cheerful attitude. A positive attitude and optimistic thinking can reverse the third age.

*2. Health is wealth:*

If you really love your kith and kin, taking care of your health should be your priority. Thus, you will not be a burden to them. Have an annual health check-up and take the prescribed medicines regularly. Do take health insurance coverage.

*3. Money is important:*

Money is essential for meeting the basic necessities of life, keeping good health and earning family respect and security. Don't spend beyond your means even for your children. You have lived for them all through and it is time you enjoyed a harmonious life with your spouse. If your children are grateful and they take care of you, you are blessed. But, never take it for granted.

*4. Relaxation and recreation:*

The most relaxing and recreating forces are a healthy religious attitude, good sleep, music and laughter. Have faith in God, learn to sleep well, love good music and see the funny side of life.

*5. Time is precious:*

It is almost like holding a horses' reins. When they are in your hands, you can control them. Imagine that everyday you are born again. Yesterday is a cancelled cheque. Tomorrow is a promissory note. Today is ready cash - use it profitably. Live this moment; live it fully, now, in the present time.

*6. Curiosity

One of the best ways to be happier is to keep asking questions and keep discovering the beauty of the world around you – in ways great and small. Be curious about people. Ask friends and strangers unexpected questions and be genuinely interested in their answers.

*7. Generosity

If you want to be happier, bring joy into the lives of others. Your gifts don’t have to cost money for them to have value. Sometimes, kind words or a compliment are all that is needed to make someone else’s day. There is always one thing about someone that you can comment on. Even if to simply say, you have beautiful eyes or that color is perfect for you.

*8. Be Gentle

Many of the happiest men-women that I have met since starting Sixty and Me have big hearts and gentle souls. They are comfortable in their skins. They know how to accept compliments and they take pride in their accomplishments. As you know, I’m not a big fan of the concept of “aging gracefully.” But, they approach the world with a softness that makes others around them feel comfortable. They are their own biggest cheerleaders, without cheering. They are self-aware, without being self-promoting.Learn to be gentle – with yourself and others. The world is harsh enough on its own.

*9. Change is the only permanent thing:* 

We should accept change - it is inevitable. The only way to make sense out of change is to join in the dance. Change has brought about many pleasant things. We should be happy that our children are blessed.

*10. Enlightened selfishness:*

All of us are basically selfish. Whatever we do, we expect something in return. We should definitely be grateful to those who stood by us. But, our focus should be on the internal satisfaction and the happiness we derive by doing good for others, without expecting anything in return. Perform a random act of kindness daily.

*11. Learn to laugh

Learn to laugh at your imperfections and the inadequacies of others. Set aside time every day to be grateful for the opportunities in your life. Life after 60 is full of small imperfections. Don’t let them get in the way of building the life you want.

*12. Forget and forgive:*

Don't be bothered too much about others' mistakes. We are not spiritual enough to show our other cheek when we are slapped in one. But for the sake of our own health and happiness, let us forgive and forget them. Otherwise, we will be only increasing our blood pressure 

*13.Follow Your Passion:

You wanted  to do something extraordinary in life but did not find time due to the pressing demand of your career. Now after retirement, you have lot of free time to engage yourself in matters that interest you. Follow your passion now and enjoy life.

*14. Take Interest in Family Matters:

Take interest in family matters. As a senior member of your family, you must give love and guidance to your siblings, children and relatives. Participate in their happy and sad moments. Be ready to extend help to any needy person. Play with your grand children or the children of your neighborhood. Do some silly things as you used to do in your childhood.

*15. Sing Songs:

Whenever you have a chance to participate in some joy party, social or family function, sing songs and dance like a young person. Enjoy the occasion fully. Give the message to others that your are young by heart if not physically.

*16. Love Nature:

Plant flowers and do some gardening. Go for hiking, boating, fishing, bird watching etc. Capture the glimpse of some fascinating natural beauty in your camera. Appreciate the colors of autumn and enjoy walking or jogging.

*17. Do Meditation:

Spend some quiet time alone daily and do some meditation. Sit crossed legs on the floor. Close your eyes and communicate with your inner self. Meditation is good for stress reduction, getting inner peace and spiritual enlightenment. If you are not used to do meditation then learn some meditation techniques. You will love to do meditation because it’s great for body, mind and soul.

*18.  Live for Others:

Do something good for other people. Do some charity work. Volunteer yourself for community welfare projects. Use your knowledge and experience in helping other people overcome their personal problems. Be kind and generous in helping needy people. Living for others mean that you are living a true meaningful life.

*19. Everything has a purpose:*

Take life as it comes. Accept yourself as you are and also accept others for what they are. Everybody is unique and is right in his own way.

*20. Acceptance

Perfection is an illusion. The happiest among us realize this and accept who they are, inside and out. You are not perfect despite your flaws. You are perfect because of your flaws.This doesn’t mean that you should stop striving to be better. Many of the happiest women in our community see self-improvement as a worthy goal. But, perfection is not their aim.

*21. Overcome the fear of death:*

We all know that one day we have to leave this world. Still we are afraid of death. We think that our spouse and children will be unable to withstand our loss. But the truth is no one is going to die for you; they may be depressed for some time. Time heals everything and they will go on.

_*Pass to all 60+ you may know 🙏😊*_