Strokelife, liberty and the pursuit of aging happily

When I exercise on my indoor bike I routinely watch one of two shows, either Stephen Colbert or Jimmy Fallon. On a recent show, Cameron Diaz was pitching her second book, “Longevity, the Science of Aging.” She writes:  “Aging is a privilege and we should feel lucky to be able to age.” At this point one might question my judgment in referencing Cameron Diaz in a stroke blog. However her four pillars for successful aging resonated with me because I often wonder as I feel the effects of aging is it age or stroke related?  It’s probably both. I fight daily to make sure the effects of stroke don’t hasten my aging.  Her four pillars of aging successfully are:  “nutrition, rest, exercise, and laughter.” I give myself an average grade of C minus or lower on adapting these pillars.   I exercise and laugh every day and my nutrition is decent. It is rest that lowers my grade.  I suffer from insomnia and don’t really sleep without some nightly aid.  I also would add a fifth pillar, which would be meaningful work.  If I had meaningful work, I believe rest would be manageable.  I am envious of my brother-in-law, Tom who has meaningful work-- the relentless goal of improving Houston Parks and park access.  He inspires me to find my own meaningful work as the fifth pillar on my own aging quest. Again, what does Cameron Diaz know about aging and science?  Probably not a lot, but she gave me material for my blog.

Mix it up

My daily routine consists of morning coffee, breakfast, newspapers, email, errands, therapy, exercise, cooking, volunteer work, etc.  When I have an opportunity “to step out” of my comfort zone, I immediately jump on it. This was the case recently when I tagged along with Bob to drive to Austin to accompany him on a few appointments. We delivered a piece of furniture contracted by one of my friends.   It also was one of my best friend’s birthdays and we were able to go to lunch. I believe it is important to mix up my routine. The plan required that I get up early, shower, sit for an extended period in a car, walk in unfamiliar territory more than I do when at home, socialize (which I think is always important) and maintain my close friendships in Austin.   As I was leaving, my friend said to me:  “Thanks for making the effort.”  That said it all and meant the world to me.  My new mantra:   Mix it up and often!