by Cynthia Germain

Finding myself recuperating from minor surgery recently gave me time to think about the healing process. I wondered, as with other things that seem to slow as we age, “does healing take longer as we get older?”

Turns out, although not unexpected, yes.  As we age, our bodies naturally become a bit less efficient at healing. It’s a process influenced by a variety of factors: slower cell regeneration, reduced collagen production, changes in circulation, and even shifts in immune function. It’s like our bodies, just like an older car, take a little time and care to get back on the road.

We know that we can’t stop the clock, but we can certainly help the body along the way. Healing at any age isn’t just a passive process. It’s an active partnership of the mind, body, and the choices we make.

For starters, I’ve been focusing on what I eat – lean proteins, fruits and veggies, and plenty of water. I’ve also been moving, albeit gently. Walking, stretching, and breathing deeply all help get the blood flowing. And yes, I’ve been listening to my body and giving it the rest it needs, without feeling guilty about it…most of the time.

I’ve also found that patience, which doesn’t necessarily come easy, has been a pretty good friend. Healing takes time, and pushing too hard only sets things back. So, I’ve been practicing gratitude for the small wins – a little less discomfort, a bit more energy, and especially a good night’s sleep.

And speaking of being grateful, I can’t say enough about the positive impact of caring family, friends and health practitioners. Of all the things that make a difference, having a network that helps you through recovery not just heals the body but feeds the soul.

So whether you’re recuperating from something minor (like me) or navigating a longer recovery, remember, our bodies may not rebound like they used to, but they’re still capable of remarkable resilience. With some good choices, loving assistance, and a bit of patience, we can help our bodies do what they were designed to do at any age, simply heal.