“Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” — Betty Friedan

Most of us associate aging with a decreased functionality and reduced quality of life. But for some people, old age is the time they live their life to the fullest.

Gone are the days when the brain processes are considered to decline as you age. Brain health experts found that some brain functions improve as you grow older.

As long as there is an absence of a disease, seniors are capable of learning new things and making sound decisions. So age is just a number and being old is a state of mind.

In view of this, it comes not as a surprise that the 69 year old Doña Geralda Barbosa has a fitness regime that not many youngsters are able to follow.

Here is how she works out the bar:

With the idea of aging looming before her, Doña Geralda braced herself hard so as not to be overtaken by the horrors of aging. In an interview with the local news, Doña said:

“What I want is to stand up and be independent and that’s my motivation. My concern is with this old age that is coming because I do not want anyone to have to carry me, I do not want to give work to anyone. I do three times a week because we have to rest.”

These words come not as a defense against the aging process but as an act of embracing the process with a great spirit and a deep conviction.

She is accepting the old age and everything old age brings but she refuses that aging can stop her from doing what she wants to do.

These are words that stem from a massive act of self love, realistic look on things and taking responsibility for your self.

Studies show that self perception could be a self fulfilling prophecy. People in their old age who look themselves as old and weak ultimately feel that way and become that way.

But those who feel positive are said to live 7.5 years longer than those who perceive aging negatively. It’s from this positive place that Doña Geralda choose to spend her days.

Doña Geralda started to be a fitness enthusiast at 63 years old for the mere reason of living her life not as an old woman but as a healthy independent woman.

So, she hits the gym and becomes an internet sensation that inspires both the young and old alike. Aside from hitting the gym, Doña Geralda is also into rock climbing.

You can check her Instagram posts or YouTube videos for the inspiring activities she does. And mind you, her Instagram followers hit the 2,000 mark and counting.

Doña Geralda is an epitome that age is just a number. As long as your mind stays positive, active, and enthusiastic, your body is sure to follow.