EMBRACE

Colorado has 158 named rivers flowing through the state. The Colorado River flows from Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. There are rapid and calm sections to the river with depths varying from 6 feet to 90 feet.

When one drives through the Glenwood Canyon corridor, the river’s swiftness is impacted by its depth. When shallow, the river races dangerously over the rocks. When there is depth to the river created by natural damming or glacial run-off, the river has a steady calmness though continuous movement.

Creating depth in our lives is the benefit of a seasoned life when we embrace its ever-forward movement. So much about aging becomes trying to stop it as if we are swimming upstream. As we embrace the move forward of time, we deepen our waters by being curious and courageous.

As we embrace courage, we become more powerful to chase after the things that are really important to us. It bolsters our self-confidence and increases our abilities.

As we embrace curiosity, we boost our brain power by regularly engaging in tasks that challenge how we think and learn new skills. Our brains become more robust when our minds are active, not passive, like a muscle. Activities to strengthen our brain:

Puzzles: There are many online options, including Wordle, or you can find more at https://www.mindgames.com/

Cards: There are several online free apps to use for card playing! https://www.solitaireparadise.com/category/card.html

Building Vocabulary: Read, Read, Read! Or you can build through an online source https://www.vocabulary.com.

Dance: Find a local Fred Astaire Studio, or you can also look online at https://www.learntodance.com/

Using senses: This is directed to a more mindful way of living https://www.mindfulteachers.org/blog/exploring-the-five-senses

Learning a new skill: Online, you can use Linkedin Learning, Udemy, and Coursera. Your local library will have opportunities, including learning a new language, computer skills, and cooking. Local groups may also offer activities encouraging involvement, including hiking, backpacking, astronomy, sailing, going back to community college or university, and giving gym class another chance – perhaps fencing?

Teaching a skill: Volunteer with local associations in those things you have an interest. You can also look on the following site for opportunities to serve, mentor, and contribute: https://www.justserve.org/?cid=v_justserve

Listening to Music

Try a new route

Meditate: There are many free meditation apps, including https://insighttimer.com/.

Learn a new language: There are a lot of YouTube videos for beginners!

Embracing the forward movement of time and seeking depth in our lives can lead to a more fulfilling and enriching experience.