Why Do We Gain Weight as We Get Older?

As you get older, your body changes. Your muscle mass decreases, you accumulate more fat, in particular around the waist. Your metabolism slows down, your heart and lungs are not as powerful as they used to be. You tend to lose flexibility, as your joints are worn and less lubricated. You've spent long hours sitting at a desk all these years, instead of walking, running and climbing. Your joints lock your limbs in certain positions, and your muscles shorten as you don't extend them, unless you practice yoga or do stretches every day. Can you remember how flexible you were as a kid? Everything seemed so easy, even doing the splits! It's a different story now...

Unfortunately, appetite doesn't decrease with age, on the contrary. You find more reasons to eat that have nothing to do with hunger or your body needing fuel. It's more about pleasure, like when you enjoy a nice meal at a restaurant. Or it could be stress, making you reach for chocolates, cookies and crisps. You look at your wedding photo and can't understand why you put on so much weight over the years. But don't despair: it's never too late. You can change your body and reverse the effects of ageing, but there is only one way to do it: exercise.

Exercise will increase your muscle mass and your flexibility. Ultimately, your metabolism will follow, as more muscle means more efficient fat burning. Your bones will also benefit from your efforts and become stronger, less prone to fractures. Your blood will circulation will improve, and your mental faculties including your memory are also likely to get better. Aerobic exercise stimulates your heart, blood vessels and increases your lung capacity. Your blood will be richer in oxygen, and all your inner organs will benefit from it, and work better. Your body will be able to process nutrients more effectively, as well as eliminate toxins. As a result, you will lose excess weight. Exercise stimulates the production of Endorphins in your body, a natural morphine-like substance that alleviates pain, anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that just three 20 minute exercise sessions a week may be as effective as taking antidepressants to lift your mood and increase your motivation.

The secret is to be patient. Don't think that radical change is going to happen within a few weeks or even a few months. Your body is the result of many years of neglect. During all this time, you didn't look after it properly. But there was a reason for it. Maybe you were to busy working or bringing up your children. Finally it's time to put your body first, and make your health your number one priority. As you get older, your health becomes your wealth. No matter how much money you've got, you won't be able to enjoy it if you're unfit, riddled with chronic diseases and unable to move around swiftly.

But don't make the mistake of doing too much too soon. Start with little changes, like a 20 minute walk every day, or a few stretches in the morning or evening. You can join a gym of course, if you can afford it and have time to go two or three times a week. But you can also find other opportunities to exercise, and there are plenty of ideas and videos on the internet. You can do yoga or Pilates in your own home, following Youtube videos. All you need is your living room carpet or a yoga mat, and some comfortable clothes. Even if you haven't exercised since high school, you can change and start your own programme now. You will feel so good after a while that you will never want to give up your routine any more!

With all my love and motivating thoughts,

Bella

Painting: 'Namaste Yoga Art Elephant'  (unknown artist)