I’m now in my seventies and living proof that it’s never too late to introduce movement into your day. Every morning, I begin with at least 10 minutes at home.
I start with breathing exercises, which calm my mind and help me focus for the day ahead. Then I move into gentle stretches – reaching up, touching my toes and swinging my arms.
This warms up my muscles, gives me energy and helps me feel steadier on my feet. I also usually do a few minutes on the treadmill.
But the part I love most is laughing yoga – a fun mix of intentional laughter (which soon turns into real laughter!) and gentle movements.
It feels a little silly at first, but once you start, it’s contagious. You forget your worries and just have a good old belly laugh. It never fails to lift my mood and stays with me long after I’ve finished.
On Wednesdays, I go to a yoga class at my local Hindu temple. Our teacher, who is 82, is still full of energy – she inspires me to keep going. Afterwards, we stay for prayers and time together.
That sense of community, being around people, is truly life-giving for me.
When the weather is good, I head to the park with a neighbour or relative. We walk at our own pace, talking as we go.
Sometimes I swim, and I keep busy cooking for my big family – I count that as movement too.
Since losing my husband 15 years ago, staying active has been my way of keeping positive, busy and grounded.
If I didn’t move, I know I would feel low. I notice the difference in relatives who are less active – they tend to fall ill more often.
For me, keeping my body moving and being around people is what keeps me well in both body and mind.
If I could say one thing to other women, it would be this: stay busy, keep moving and make time for people – it’s the best way to keep illness away.
Movement gives you strength, laughter and a reason to look forward to tomorrow. And if I only had 10 minutes to move each day?
I’d do exactly what I do every morning: a little yoga, a stretch and a laugh. It’s the perfect way to begin the day.