Jean Dublin, 70, embarked on her journey with Senior Planet through the Connected NYCHA program in 2020. Today, she is an active volunteer with Senior Planet’s walking club in NYC and leads a weekly meditation class at the Center.
What was your experience like when you started taking classes with Senior Planet?
It felt like being a diver on a boat in the vast ocean – diving into the unknown, going deeper and deeper without knowing what to expect.
That’s my story. I continued diving deeper and deeper. I believe I will never stop taking classes because the desire to learn more always burns within me.
You help lead the walking club at the Senior Planet Center in NYC. What are the benefits of a walking club?
Walking is the best medicine for the body – keeping every organ alive and alert. Walking together helps us learn, grow, and become the best versions of ourselves. (The walking club is set to resume in April 2024.)
Any advice on starting a walking club?
All you need is to gather a few people – perhaps from your community center or church. You can start by putting up a flyer wherever you are.
I suggest giving it a try. Even if you can only manage two blocks at first, start there. The next day, you may find yourself tempted to walk three.
I also lead a Meditation Class on Wednesdays from 1 to 1:30 at the Senior Planet Center in NYC. Meditation is a powerful body and soul connection.
Do you use any tech during exercise or meditation?
I enjoy my Fitbit – it revealed how many steps I take each day. It was an eye-opening number that made me realize the activity I had been doing for years.
What does aging with attitude mean to you?
To me, aging with attitude means living my best life ever at this age. Embracing wisdom, love, compassion, and spreading joy with others.
YOUR TURN:
Have you made a difference in your community? Share your experience in the comments!
Pam Hugi is Senior Planet’s Community and Advocacy Manager. Based in Brooklyn, she is a contributing writer for this site.
