Chapter 1: The Importance of Veggies and Exercise

Having spent 27 years adhering to a vegan diet, I feel well-prepared for the challenges of aging. However, it’s crucial to incorporate exercise into my routine as well.

For as long as I can recall, the advice has been to consume more vegetables. Even as a vegan—someone who abstains from all animal products—I must remind myself to prioritize greens in my meals.

We cultivate a significant portion of our food, yet there are times when I realize I haven’t included greens in my diet for a couple of days. Including vegetables in our meals can be incredibly beneficial as we grow older. While I’m not a nutritionist, both my doctor and various health professionals emphasize the importance of vegetables for our well-being.

My favorites include bok choy, spinach, broccoli, kale, and Swiss chard; I always ensure at least one of these is stocked in my fridge. We are fortunate to have access to several local farmers' markets where we can buy these at reasonable prices, in addition to what we grow ourselves.

I’ve discovered that maintaining an adequate intake of greens and veggies is relatively straightforward. For lunch or dinner, I often sauté a handful of greens with some beans or tofu, seasoning them with salt, pepper, cayenne, and turmeric. Sometimes I serve this on rice, but most often, I enjoy it solo.

Chapter 2: Balancing Diet with Physical Activity

As I relish my vegetable-rich meals, I often remind myself that I haven’t reached my goal of 10,000 steps in a few days. This serves as a powerful prompt, illustrating that while I can nourish my body through diet, I must also engage in physical activity.

For me, this involves taking daily walks, cycling, and hitting the gym at least four times a week. I’m fortunate that my gym is just five blocks away and costs only $39 a month, which I find to be an excellent investment.

The gym doubles as a social hub for me. I enjoy a little weightlifting while catching up with friends. No matter how challenging it may be to get there, I always leave feeling invigorated—both physically and mentally.

As I approach my 60s, I remain hopeful that my commitment to a vegetable-rich diet and daily exercise will support my health and fitness for the many years ahead!

Take risks, be of service, support your friends and colleagues, and practice kindness.

The first video, "30 Day Fitness Challenge: Fruits & Veggies," encourages viewers to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their fitness routines, providing motivation and tips for a healthier lifestyle.

In the second video, "This or That Healthy Food Choices! Tabata Kid's Workout PE activity or BRAIN BREAK!," viewers will learn about making healthier food choices while engaging in fun physical activities suitable for all ages.