To age is to liberate
|Advices
In today’s culture, “aging” and “getting older” can evoke fear, implying a loss of “youth”. But at Le Groupe Maurice, we view aging as a privilege, a life phase full of promise and self-discovery. We see it as a vast ocean of possibilities shaped by our experiences, and for many of us, to age… is to liberate!
Taking the time for what you love
One of the greatest treasures of aging is experience. With time comes a profound understanding of life’s intricacies and a deeper self-awareness. As we transition away from our professional responsibilities, we can rejoice in the present, pursue our passions or concentrate on what truly matters in our lives.
In fact, retirement isn’t about withdrawing from life; it’s actually a chance to reengage! Through activities like volunteering, sports, art, reading, gardening, or exploring new places, we can rediscover our passions and pursue interests that may have taken a backseat during our busy working lives.
Embracing this newfound freedom to explore and rediscover ourselves often leads to a profound sense of accomplishment. Just ask Mr. Jacquelin Beaulieu, a 93-years-young resident at Le Groupe Maurice, who is living proof of this.
“I’ve been a passionate camper for over 60 years. I plan my destination, hitch my mini-trailer to my car and hit the road. I travel alone 90% of the time. Sometimes I have friends joining me, but I don’t depend on anyone to set out. I need my freedom, and I’m not afraid of solitude. I enjoy the silence. It’s in nature that I am happiest. I never get bored! In the winter, I prepare my Mason jars to be ready to go as soon as May rolls around. I love life… and I love living it!” he explains.
An interesting insight
Nature plays a vital role in people’s well-being, regardless of age. Its benefits for physical and mental health are numerous and impact various systems in the body.
A team from the Montreal Heart Institute has indeed shown that connecting with nature has a positive impact on cortisol levels, helping to lessen anxiety and blood pressure. It also contributes to reducing depression, while increasing a person’s vitality and improving their attention.
Spending time in nature is not just a pleasure, but also a prescription for better overall health. Whether in a park, along a field, in a clearing, or in the forest, it’s where our minds can unwind and our bodies can regenerate. Nature, with its boundless generosity, provides us with a dose of healing, as well as an endless wellspring of inspiration and revitalization.
To age is to liberate and enjoy freedom
Aging can also bring greater freedom. Unencumbered by our professional responsibilities and personal commitments, we’re free to live life on our own terms and pursue our passions.
While this newfound freedom may be curtailed by circumstances beyond our control, it can also work in our favour in numerous ways. For instance, we might relocate to a new city, downsize to a more minimalist lifestyle, pursue causes close to our hearts, devote more time to loved ones, or simply focus on our own well-being and appreciate what we have.
This liberty to choose can lead us to greater personal satisfaction and, consequently, a better quality of life. At 70 years-young, Quebec actress Louise DesChâtelets agrees, “We reap what we’ve sown throughout our lives. We look ahead, we no longer have time to waste, and all this comes with a tremendous sense of freedom.”
Growing older is an individual journey, different for each of us. It’s about embracing the small pleasures life brings. When we concentrate on what truly fulfils us, we unlock the possibility of happiness.
To age isn’t just about adding years, but about enriching our lives with novel experiences and insights. It’s about fully embracing life, within our capabilities and desires. It’s also a chance to share our wisdom with future generations, supporting their development and progress in this world. It’s about empowering ourselves, deciding what to do with the time that is given us and rejoicing in every moment!