"Finally, I saw that worrying had come to nothing. And I gave it up."

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A poem taped on the writer's bookshelf

Each of us has a unique set of challenges brought on by aging, which may entice us to stay home more and avoid excessive exercise and activity. However, I humbly suggest that the opposite is a healthier option. It has been for me. Getting out in nature and bathing in its beauty keeps me stimulated and engaged.

One of the keys to aging well is to remain physically and mentally active as much as possible while managing the various stressors (and possible aches and pains!) that one often experiences as time goes on. These concerns are expressed quite movingly in the poem below by Mary Oliver which I have had taped to a bookshelf above my desk for many years to remind me of those facts. Oliver died in 2019 at age 83 having been the author of countless other precious and inspirational poems.

While we each may worry or be concerned about our physical or mental well-being, it is not healthy to dwell on those concerns. Getting in some daily physical exercise and connecting with friends, as well as using one’s mind by reading, writing, or taking classes, is an optimal antidote to aging. Maintaining regular medical visits is one thing but taking personal responsibility for our own well-being is another.

This poem "I Worried" by Mary Oliver should be a helpful reminder to each of us as we continue to age, day by day, year by year:

I worried a lot. Will the garden grow, will the rivers
flow in the right direction, will the earth turn
as it was taught, and if not how shall
I correct it?
 

Was I right, was I wrong, will I be forgiven,
can I do better?

Will I ever be able to sing, even the sparrows
can do it and I am, well,
hopeless.

Is my eyesight fading or am I just imagining it,
am I going to get rheumatism,
lock jaw, dementia?

Finally, I saw that worrying had come to nothing.
And I gave it up. And took my old body
and went out into the morning,
and sang.

I think the theme that Oliver articulates is universal. It rings true for me. I suspect it may for you as well.

So, my underlying message: Stay connected to people and take those classes that will help stimulate your mind and help you feel that living in the present moment will be meaningful and satisfying as you stay both physically and mentally active. 

Dr. Hugh Winig is a retired psychiatrist, a longtime OLLI @Berkeley member and volunteer, and a regular contributor to the OLLI Blog.