Should I be worried about my bones?

Should You Be Worried About Your Bones? The Secrets to Increasing Longevity

Our bones are the unsung heroes of the body. They provide a strong, protective framework for our vital organs, act as levers that allow us to move, and even produce blood cells that carry oxygen, fight infections, and help our blood clot to prevent life-threatening bleeds.

But here’s the thing: after the age of 50, our ability to maintain strong, healthy bones begins to decline. This is especially true for post-menopausal women, who face a 50% increased risk of fractures due to reduced bone density. Shockingly, two-thirds of women who sustain a hip fracture never return to independent living, experiencing a dramatic drop in their quality of life. While men may have a lower risk of developing osteoporosis, their outcomes can be more severe - they are twice as likely to die within a year of suffering a hip fracture.

Living with osteoporosis can be emotionally draining. It often brings a quiet anxiety - an invisible fear of the next fall, the next break. There are no obvious symptoms, no daily reminders - yet the risk is real. And because others can’t see it, it’s often misunderstood or downplayed by friends and family.

But here’s the good news: bone density can be improved. With the right kind of exercise - especially weight-bearing and high-impact movements like walking, jumping, or strength training - you can strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of fracture.

Too often, people focus only on cardiovascular fitness, sticking to the cross trainer or stationary bike. While great for your heart, these exercises don’t challenge your bones in the way they need. If you want to improve your quality of life and build resilience as you age, bone health should be a top priority.

So, should you be worried about your bones? Maybe. But more importantly - you should be proactive. Your future mobility, independence, and overall wellbeing may depend on it.

-Conner George

Slow Flow Yoga