Life Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint: Redefining Aging, One Step at a Time

I once met an 85-year-old woman who still runs marathons. I also knew someone who passed away from kidney failure at just 56, after spending over 20 years in poor health. These two women live in my memory, not because of their ages, but because of what their lives taught me about vitality, choices, and the power of support.

Aging has always been present in my life. As long as we are breathing, we are aging. But I’ve never wanted to be defined by that alone. I resist labels, especially the ones that try to box us in based on age. I spend time with people much younger and much older than me because I value both perspectives. The fresh curiosity of the young and the deep wisdom of those who have lived through more.

Yes, I now qualify for senior discounts, and yes, I sometimes need more rest, slower mornings, and gentler movement. But what’s far more important to me is that I continue evolving emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Personal growth doesn’t stop because of a number on our ID. That is a choice we each get to make.

Adjusting the Pace, Not the Purpose

Life in our later years may look different, but it doesn’t mean slowing down our dreams. I've had to make adjustments. I’m not as fast or as daring as I once was, and I use my energy more intentionally. But in exchange, I’ve gained something even more valuable. I’ve learned to listen to my body and give it what it needs: nourishing food, restful sleep, fulfilling relationships, regular acupuncture, and the freedom to step away from toxic environments.

As a coach and alternative medicine practitioner, I’ve spent decades helping women navigate these transitions. There are so many variables in our lives that can quietly pull us out of balance. Stress, trauma, poor nutrition, lack of boundaries. But many of these things can be changed. We have the ability to take control of our health, our habits, and our happiness.

From Pharmaceuticals to Personal Power

My professional life started as a medical doctor, then I was immersed in the pharmaceutical world. I worked closely with regulatory agencies, ethics committees, and drug safety programs to ensure that pharmaceutical products were safe and clinical trials were ethical. But over time, I saw a bigger picture.

Despite the medical advances, chronic diseases like diabetes and autoimmune disorders continued to rise. It often felt like we were stepping in too late. That realization sparked a shift in me. I wanted to work on prevention, to support people before symptoms turned into diagnoses. That’s what led me to alternative medicine, education and coaching.  

I believe both worlds have their place. Keep your yearly check-ups, stay informed, and trust your doctor. But also give yourself permission to explore holistic care. If you are tired all the time, if your digestion is off, if you feel anxious or disconnected, those are signs worth listening to. They are messages from your body, calling you back to balance.

You don’t need to wait until something is wrong. You can choose to feel better now.

Aging Reimagined

Aging doesn’t have to mean slowing down. It can be a time to become more vibrant, more rooted, and more yourself. At Integral Alternative Medicine, we walk this path with women every day. Through 1:1 coaching, nervous system regulation, energy healing, and wellness education, we help you feel supported in your body, your mind, and your choices.

Let’s normalize talking about aging. Let’s stop hiding the changes that come with time. There is wisdom in every wrinkle and strength in every transition. These years are not about fading. They are about becoming more fully you.

So yes, life is a marathon. But it isn’t a race against time. It is a journey toward greater clarity, deeper purpose, and lasting vitality. And you don’t have to walk it alone.

Explore natural solutions with Integral Alternative Medicine.

Disclaimer: This article contains general information about health topics and it is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. If you have any questions related to your condition you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention.