A new age and the face of aging

It hit me just this week that the days are longer, meaning I can finally put away my winter gear and take off my snow tires.     

Yes. Spring is officially and visibly here. With that shift comes the opportunity to get back to our favorite spring and summer outdoor activities. Many of us 55 and over are ready to start hiking, kayaking, biking, and hitting the outdoor pickleball courts to combat the lingering “winter blues.” Outdoor concerts are revving up, and festivals will fill the weekend schedules for several months now.  

Most of us are aware that spending time outdoors has a positive impact on our sleep habits and immune health. When we can engage in large-muscle outdoor recreational activities with friends or family, our mental health also improves.   

I love kayaking. If I could spend every reasonably mild weather day out on the water, it would likely never be too much for me. It nourishes my spirit and brings joy to my life. Flexibility and balance are essential for navigating a kayak. Connection to the water with its unique moods — the sounds, smells, and visual experience — brings solace and adventure to my not-so-ordinary life.   

The reality is that no matter how we envision our lives as we get older, many of us, including myself, find ourselves in situations we never imagined or anticipated. Some of this is by choice, and some by circumstance. However, regardless of the reason, our ability to adapt to life changes is primarily determined by the choices we make following an unanticipated life interruption.   

How well do you adapt to change? What brings you joy when the days seem long, and the night does not provide adequate sleep?   

This month for the Geezer Forum, we welcome Beryl Ryan, RN, who will share her story and journey with Tapping, a form of acupressure and mindfulness rooted in ancient traditions. With over 40 years of experience in the health field, Bery shares her love for humanity and sincere desire to share the tools which can provide relief from anxiety, physical and emotional pain and much more.   

Join us Tuesday, April 8, at 2:30 p.m.at the Marigold Bistro and Café (Umpqua Bank Building) 

Also, Sandpoint Area Seniors, Inc has joined forces with Live, Give 7B from April 14-18. With roughly 60 nonprofits, SASi takes advantage of the opportunity to support local donor generosity in 7B — Bonner County.  For more information, check out the webpage at 7B Gives. If you're interested in activities or support for our local Senior Center, please visit us at sandpointareaseniors.org. 

Lisa Bond is the executive director of Sandpoint Area Senior and the new leader of the Geezer Forum.