Those things sound like a great idea. How has that been going for you?
A while back, I got into the habit of stretching most nights before I go to bed. I lay down on the hard floor with my knees up (to not strain lower back) and reach hands out straight above my head. It straightens out my spine a bit (from too much slouching throughout the day). I also do some hamstring and other stretches I learned from a chiropractor years ago. The process is often like giving myself an "adjustment" including the resulting crackles and pops.  Along with more exercise and losing some weight, I've be able to go for a long time without the chronic lower back issues I've had my whole life (including a few severe bouts of sciatica.) I also do some crunches, trying to strengthen my core muscles, as I've read that's so important to prevent falls as we get on in years.
I like Bear900/CA's idea of extending the concept of "middle age"! After deciding to get serious about losing weight this year, I'm feeling better than I have in a very long time. I chose to do a slower but steady route, but am on track to reach my goal by end of summer. Looks like I'm going to have to get a new wardrobe, though... Darn!
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