Norma Silver #25 - "There is no prescription for aging!"

Today on the show we welcome back, Norma Silver.We first met Norma on this show back in 2019 and I wanted to bring her back and see how she has been doing these past 5 years.Our friendship has developed quite and bit and it was nice to chat again and get to hear more of her stories.Norma talks a lot about what inspires her, what she looks forward to, and how grateful she is for having tango in her life.At 96 years of age, she still loves driving around and being independent and her attitude toward life inspires me daily!I am grateful to be friends with Norma and I think you will be too!SHOW NOTES: Norma attributes her health and vitality at 96 to her love for tango, emphasizing its emotional and physical benefits, including fostering human connection and mindfulness. Norma highlights the therapeutic value of poetry and body-focused approaches in psychology, linking them to the movement and emotional expression found in tango. She reflects on the joy and optimism tango brings, encouraging a focus on its positives rather than common complaints within the community. Norma contrasts the expectations of beginner and experienced tango dancers, noting that beginners often find more joy due to their lack of preconceived notions. She discusses societal changes over the decades, including progress in civil rights, women's rights, and mental health awareness, while acknowledging ongoing challenges. Norma credits her long-term engagement with therapy, starting at a young age, as a key factor in her mental and physical well-being, emphasizing the importance of self-care. She challenges stereotypes about aging, showcasing her independence and active lifestyle, and aims to serve as a role model for aging with vitality and fulfillment. Norma reflects on the importance of adaptability and spontaneity in life, sharing how changing habits and embracing new experiences can bring excitement and joy. She finds value in journaling to document and revisit cherished memories, which provides comfort and fulfillment despite physical limitations. Norma discusses the meditative and present-focused nature of tango, emphasizing its ability to disconnect from distractions and foster joy and connection. She reflects on the reciprocal joy in dance, noting how her initial pursuit of tango for personal enjoyment has evolved into enriching the lives of others. Norma emphasizes the importance of creating meaningful experiences for others in events, contrasting genuine care with less engaging approaches.