Building a Strong Mind is Building Anew

Translated by AI

Staying healthy involves maintaining movement. Movement implies vitality and is evident. However, many start with high ambitions to compensate for past inactivity, planning perfect training regimens only to falter when their physical reality hits, leading to disappointment and discouragement.

A paper published in Nature Aging in August 2024 detailed that human functional decline is not linear but rather occurs as a sudden drop, with significant turning points at ages 44 and 60. As of 2024, Taiwan's National Development Council reported an average lifespan of 81.91 years, with men living to 78.61 years and women reaching 85.21. This means there remains a long journey post-physical decline. Despite the body's diminished state, mental status can indeed improve.

The answer: Yes!

If physical fitness seems unreachable, then prioritize mental wellness. When bodily limits are reached, focus should shift to mental training. Although physical endeavors ultimately manifest results through perseverance, setting realistic physical expectations and emphasizing mental adaptation is key.

"Persevere" and "Collect little by little" are straightforward yet oft-eluded truths. Hence, when fitness (or life's facets) pose challenges, begin by strengthening the mind.

The core of strengthening the mind revolves around fostering positive beliefs. Feedback sustains motivation. If 'fitness' becomes the primary aim, distant goals may result. The body's declining function can lead to negative feedback, culminating in doubt, lost confidence, and possibly adopting an "I just can't" mentality. Making 'mental wellness' the primary objective instead allows setting achievable activities, fostering positive feedback, and establishing self-driven cycles.

Belief is like layered thought processes and emotions. Do not underestimate its power. You become what you believe! Strengthening mental wellness means fostering positive beliefs.

Desire and Capability

Mental wellness includes cultivating "I am willing" and "I can . " These phrases spark life's motivation. Implementing two practices helps embed these concepts in the brain:

Thirty-minute walk or on-the-spot stepping: Walking and stepping are gentle activities focusing not on distance/speed but on conscious breathing. Ensure breathing and pace harmonize, promoting prolonged activity subconsciously.

Stretching: Flexibility reflects openness and adaptability. Start with stretches targeting major muscle groups—chest, back, shoulders, neck, abdomen, waist, arms, legs—the frequently used, easily tense parts. Dedicate 15-30 minutes in the morning or pre-sleep for stretching, identifying tension areas for release.

Engage daily or spontaneously, forming a 30 or 100-day accountability plan, laying down "I am willing" and "I can" affirmations. Aging isn't the adversary, but rather one's mindset. Strong minds enable any moment to mark new beginnings, offering the best opportunities.

Building mental strength allows continual renewal. Ageing and physical conditions might incite fear about starting anew. Yet, one’s mental age remains unaffected by chronological age or physique. Active bodies harbor youthful spirits, granting courage and flexibility beyond peers to adjust.

Numerous individuals post-retirement or after children move out lose life’s focus, shrinking their world. Building mental strength nurtures resilience, encourages new adventures, and builds courage bountiful enough to engage enthusiasts, explore passions post-retirement, and rediscover life after familial responsibilities.

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