Being Intentional as We Age: A Journey to Wellness
Aging is a remarkable journey, filled with growth, reflection, and, at times, challenges. As someone who worked as an Emergency Physician until the age of 77, I believed I had a good handle on my health. However, life had other plans. A sudden and acute health crisis—a quadruple coronary artery bypass graft—was my wake-up call, compounded by two other major surgeries and the struggles of recovery.
For six weeks, I was bedridden, my strength depleted, and my independence diminished. I began cardiac rehabilitation in a wheelchair and faced the added hurdle of relearning how to speak after vocal cord surgery to address paralysis that left me at risk of aspirating food and liquids. The road back was steep, but I’m here today, more than a year later, grateful to share that I am almost back to my normal self.
This journey taught me one invaluable lesson: as a patient and as we age, we must take charge of our personal well-being. Recovery and health are not passive processes; they demand intention, discipline, and active participation.
Taking Charge: My Path to Recovery
Here’s what I learned—and what I hope will inspire you to live intentionally as you age:
💪 Set Clear Goals and Work Towards Them
At my lowest, I had lost 22 pounds, much of it muscle, due to physical inactivity. Rebuilding my strength meant structuring a physical exercise routine tailored to my heart’s function. Progress was slow but steady, and every small step forward mattered.
🥗 Prioritize Nutrition
Nutrition became my foundation. By controlling my salt intake and transitioning to a plant-based diet, I not only supported my heart health but also reduced my dependence on medications. From taking three blood pressure medications, I now only take half the dose of one.
🗣️ Commit to Rehabilitationhttps://www.drgayao.com/wp-admin/upload.php
Speech therapy was vital after my vocal cord surgery. Even after completing the program, I continued the exercises at home, determined to regain my ability to speak clearly and eat safely. Recovery didn’t end when therapy did; it was an ongoing process.
🌟 Embrace Intentional Living
For me, being intentional as I age means making conscious choices every day:
- Structuring physical activities that are safe yet challenging.
- Eating foods that nourish rather than harm.
- Stimulating my mind through learning and growth.
- Maintaining meaningful social connections that uplift and inspire.
Aging with Purpose
Aging isn’t just about facing physical changes; it’s about adapting with purpose. When we intentionally choose habits and activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being, we create a foundation for a fulfilling and vibrant life, no matter our age.
Here’s what I want you to take away: You have more control than you think. By being proactive and intentional, you can reclaim your health, strengthen your body, and find joy in the everyday.
Whether you’re navigating recovery, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to stay strong as you age, remember this: it’s never too late to start making intentional choices. Take charge of your well-being, set your goals, and walk forward, one step at a time. The best version of you is waiting on the other side.
Let’s age with grace, strength, and purpose—together. 💪🌱
#HealthyAging #IntentionalLiving #WellnessJourney #NeverTooLate
Laurence Tabanao Gayao MD, FAAFP, BCEM
