Living Gracefully in the Golden Years

On my grand-daughter’s graduation party

As I grow older, I’ve come to realize that staying physically, mentally, and spiritually active is the key to leading a fulfilling life. 

In our Baba ji room

Each day begins with a mix of physical exercise, meditation, and yoga to energize my body and calm my mind. After a refreshing shower, I tie a neatly freshly washed turban, choosing a different color each day. 

Major part of my Wardrobe

Dressing in clean, tidy, and well-washed clothes—even if they are not expensive—brings me a sense of discipline and pride.

Well washed and stacked

Taking care of oneself is a vital part of maintaining dignity in old age. I strive to do my chores independently, such as washing, folding, and organizing my laundry. While I don’t cook often, I contribute by helping my wife chop vegetables or by doing my own dishes. 

Harvinder assisted by Jania - our Bakery expert

My wife Harvinder prepares delicious homemade vegetarian meals, a tradition we value deeply. Grocery shopping is another joint effort; I accompany her to load, unload, and neatly stack the groceries.

Jania hauling away her stuff to her Dorms.

Family is central to my life, and I stay connected with my grandchildren by helping with school pickups or sharing driving duties when we visit them at their colleges. 

A warm hug, near the Starbucks Coffee shop, with my grandson Gobind after a gap of a few weeks makes me happiest.

Going to the nearby beaches along with kiddos keep me busy and fresh 

These moments of togetherness keep my heart young. On stormy or extreme weather days, we sometimes indulge in window shopping at malls—not so much for shopping but for the joy of spending time together. 

With hat for a change

This also helps me fulfill my doctor’s recommendation to walk for at least 30 minutes a day.

Offerings to the lotus feet of Jagat Guru

Every Sunday, visiting the Gurdwara is a sacred ritual for us. It keeps us grounded spiritually and offers an opportunity to connect with the community. 

With our neighbors

Social functions, when personally invited, are another way to stay engaged, although I am mindful not to become a burden on my children. Instead, I believe in leading a self-reliant life, offering support rather than seeking it.

In quieter moments, I enjoy listening to music and watching sports, which keep me entertained and inspired. 

Writing my blogs

Writing has become an integral part of my daily routine. Over time, I’ve noticed that people tire of listening to repetitive stories, so I channel my energy into documenting my personal history through blogs. It’s a meaningful pursuit, helping me preserve memories for future generations while offering me creative satisfaction.

I enjoy singing with my son Shivpreet which keeps me connected and bonded.

Another essential aspect of aging gracefully is keeping track of one’s assets. While I’m not overly aggressive about it, I ensure that everything is in order to avoid unnecessary stress for my family.

My Medicine cabinet

Following my doctor’s advice, I take my prescribed medicines religiously—quite a handful in my case—and carefully monitor my blood pressure and blood sugar levels, recording them daily in my diary. Staying on top of these health priorities gives me peace of mind.

On our Golden Jubilee - historic photograph. Family get-together is phenomenal factor to boost your energy

Aging is not just about managing routines but about embracing the changes that come with time. It’s about finding joy in small, meaningful moments—sharing laughter with loved ones, watching the sunrise, or offering a helping hand to my neighbors. By keeping the mind active, the body healthy, and the spirit grounded, one can live an old age full of purpose, grace, and contentment.

Salad and Bread and a cup of water is readily available all over even on the top of a mountain restaurant 

Being a lifelong vegetarian and teetotaler has never extinguished my desire to enjoy the goodies of the Western world. From savoring diverse cuisines within my dietary choices to embracing the cultural and technological advancements around me, 

Balloon Flight in Cappadocia Turkey.

Travels to far and near are absolutely rewarding

Memorable trip to Sedona in Swear weather when we were trapped in heavy snow for 14 hours

I’ve found ways to balance tradition with modernity. Life, after all, is about cherishing experiences while staying true to one’s values—living with purpose, grace, and a never-ending curiosity for all that the world has to offer.