For many women in the Sixty and Me community, healthy aging requires more than making simple choices about what to eat and who to spend time with. Staying healthy after 60 also means getting the most from life after 60. The more we live, the healthier we become, and vice versa.

Here are a few ways that the women in our community are living with verve and passion:

Focus on Fun Healthy Aging Activities

There was a time when turning 60 meant that you were automatically expected to “wind down” and “age gracefully.” This is no longer the case. In fact, our generation is more active than any other group of women our age throughout history.

The most active women in the Sixty and Me community are exploring their passions and trying new things. They are kayaking, sailing, playing tennis, swimming, hiking, running, or skiing. Staying in shape doesn’t mean that you need to join an expensive gym. There are plenty of ways to stay active and social without spending money on a fitness club membership (unless you want to!)

Express your Creativity

Every time I ask the women in our community to share their passions, I am amazed by the depth and color of their responses. Life after 60 really can be a time for exploring your passions like painting, knitting, scrapbooking, photography, cooking, music or drawing.

Once again, this isn’t just a matter of “passing the time” in an enjoyable way. Living life to the full and embracing your passions is an essential part of health after 60? Why? Because, people who explore their interests tend to be happier and more fulfilled than people who don’t.

When you are happy, you are more likely to make the healthy choices in your life that will keep your body going for many years to come.

Keep Your Brain Health in Mind

Healthy aging is not just a matter of keeping your body healthy – you also have to pay attention to your mind. While the science of brain health after 60 is still developing, there are a few things that are already clear.

First, the more you use your brain, the better your chances of keeping it healthy. So, go out of your way to try new things. Learn new skills, meet new people and travel to new places – even if you are only able to take a bus to a new town close to yours. Learning a second language is another excellent way to keep your mind sharp.

Second, one of the best things that you can do for your brain is keep the rest of your body healthy. Even walking at a brisk pace for 30 minutes a day can have a positive impact on your brain. This is especially true if you combine your physical activity with social engagement – your brain loves to be around other people!

Cultivate Gratitude and Give back to the World

One of the biggest health risks that women face in their 60s is isolation. When we feel like we are disconnected from the world, everything else becomes harder. It is up to each of us to create meaning in our own lives. No matter what you are going through, there are plenty of reasons to be grateful.

One way that many women in the Sixty and Me community find meaning in their lives if by giving back to their communities.

Volunteering is a great way to stay socially active, while sharing your talents and interests with the world.

Living a healthy life and living a passionate life are two sides of the same coin. The more we engage with the world, the healthier we become. Then, as our fitness improves, we have more energy to engage with the world. Let’s get out there and show the world that life after 60 can be anything that we want it to be!

What lifestyle changes have you made since turning 60? What does healthy aging mean to you? Please add your comments below and “like” and share this article to keep the conversation going.

Check out our amazing gentle yoga video series that we designed specifically for older adults!