Your Body Still Matters
Some mornings, I roll out of bed and hear a new snap, crackle, or pop that wasn’t there yesterday. (And no, it’s not breakfast cereal.) Age has a way of reminding us that our bodies don’t bounce back quite like they used to.
But here’s what I’ve learned: this body—aches, wrinkles, and all—is still God’s temple. And Scripture tells us to care for it:
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
1 Corinthians 6:19–20
That means our bodies are still valuable, still worthy of love, and still meant to be treated with care. Not because we’re chasing youth or magazine covers, but because we want to glorify God and enjoy the energy He provides.
Your Body Still Matters after 60
In our 60s, energy is a precious resource. It’s what lets us:
- Travel and see the world.
- Chase after (or at least keep up with) the grandkids.
- Volunteer, serve, or even launch new dreams.
- Simply enjoy life without feeling drained.
Taking care of our bodies is really about stewarding energy so we can keep saying YES to the life God has for us. It helps us to keep saying YES to the purpose of God in the kingdom.
Gentle Movement: Moving Without Overdoing
Let’s be honest—none of us are signing up for CrossFit championships at this stage. (If you are, I’ll be cheering from the sidelines with an ice pack.) But our bodies thrive when they move, even in gentle ways. So, if you have not started moving yet or not sure how. Here are some tips.
1. Walking with Purpose
Walking is one of the best gifts for women over 60. It’s low-impact, easy on the joints, and you can make it social by walking with a friend. Or, if you are like me, you like to walk alone because a walking buddy can’t walk at your pace and they talk too much (and I say I want friends). LOL. It can also double as prayer time when you walk with God.
2. Chair Exercises
Yes, you can sit and sweat. Chair squats, seated leg lifts, and arm raises with light weights are perfect for days when standing feels like too much.
3. Dance It Out
Turn on your favorite music and move around the living room. No one’s watching (except maybe the dog, and he’s not judging). Dancing boosts mood, balance, and cardio health.Turn on your favorite music and get your body moving for 20 minutes or more.
4. Stretch Daily
This one may be the most important. Stretch. Stretching keeps us limber and prevents injuries. As we get older we tend to sit more and if you work from home at all, sitting will be hard on your body. Stretching for about 30 minutes each morning can work wonders. Try reaching for the sky, touching your toes (or your knees—no shame!), and gently twisting side to side. Find a stretching app or Youtube video will help you greatly.
Stretching may not sound exciting, but it’s like giving your body a hug. It helps:
- Improve flexibility
- Ease stiffness
- Increase blood flow
- Reduce stress
Think of it as oiling the hinges on a squeaky door. Without it, everything creaks louder. Here is a routine to get you started.
Morning Stretch Routine Idea (5 minutes):
- Neck rolls—Slowly roll your head side to side.
- Shoulder shrugs—Up to your ears, then let them drop.
- Cat-cow stretch—On hands and knees, arch and round your back.
- Forward fold—Stand tall, then gently bend forward (bend your knees if needed).
- Side stretch—Reach one arm overhead, lean gently to the side.
It’s quick, gentle, and leaves you feeling refreshed.
Nutrition: Eating for Energy, Not Just Fullness
I’ll admit it I used to eat for taste alone. (Hello, donuts, my old friend.) But after 60, what we put in our bodies shows up fast—in energy, mood, and overall health. If you are trying to change what you eat and struggle here are a few ideas.
Foods That Fuel
- Leafy Greens – Spinach, kale, and collards are packed with vitamins and calcium. (If kale makes you gag, blend it in a smoothie with fruit. Magic trick.)
- Lean Protein – Chicken, fish, beans, and lentils help keep muscles strong.
- Whole Grains – Oats, quinoa, and brown rice provide steady energy.
- Healthy Fats – Avocado, nuts, and olive oil keep brains sharp, and joints lubricated.
- Colorful Veggies – The more color, the more nutrients. Eat the rainbow!
Foods That Drain
- Excess sugar (hello, energy crash).
- Highly processed snacks (they give short bursts, then steal your energy).
- Too much caffeine (I know, don’t shoot the messenger).
The Faith Connection & Why It Matters
Sometimes we separate faith from fitness, as if one belongs in church and the other in the gym. But God cares about both. When you nourish your body, you’re making space to serve Him with more strength and joy.
“Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
Romans 12:1
That means every healthy choice is an act of worship. Drinking water instead of soda? Worship. Taking a walk instead of another TV show? Worship. Saying no to third helpings? Yep, worship too.
Practical Tips for Daily Temple Care
- Move Every Hour – Stand, stretch, walk to the mailbox. Small movements add up.
- Drink Water First Thing – Before coffee, hydrate your body. (Yes, I’m side-eyeing my own coffee mug as I say this.)
- Plan Simple Meals – Aim for balance, not perfection.
- Rest Well – Sleep is holy. Protect it.
- Invite God Into It – Pray before meals, thank Him for your body, and ask for wisdom in choices.
The Joy of Living Well at 60+
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Every gentle step, every stretch, every nourishing meal is a gift you’re giving to yourself and to God.
Your body may not be the same as it was at 30 (hallelujah, we’ve grown wiser!), but it’s still worthy of love and care. When you treat your body as God’s temple, you’ll find the energy, joy, and peace to keep living your best life—vibrantly and faithfully—well into your 60s, 70s, and beyond.
Enjoy the journey and the small changes you are making. Let God speak to you about your new journey and be obedient to His voice. Your life is worth the living.
New to The Best-Life Project?
Please read these foundational posts:
Read More from This Author:
Read More on this Topic:
Stephanie is the owner and host of her podcast called Reveal, a biblical Insight life coach, ordained minister and author. She has over 10 years of experience in biblical counseling to married couples and women. She holds certificates of teaching in Old Testament history, biblical counselling, advanced biblical counselling & marriage and family studies.
She lives in Atlanta, GA where she loves to cook for dinner parties, quilt, write books, read and write in journals. When not doing those things, she enjoys her two adult sons and her black mini schnauzer Kyrie.
Connect with her at: www.stephaniemcarter.com