In Episode 125, C. Vicki Gold helps people age safely, wisely and well

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Today, I have the privilege of speaking with C. Vicki Gold, an 80-year-old retired physical therapist who continues to make a meaningful impact by teaching people how to age safely, wisely and well.

Vicki blends her clinical knowledge with decades of experience in mind-body disciplines like yoga, Tai Chi, and other methods to help people unlock greater vitality as they grow older.

Here are my key takeaways from our conversation:

First, posture and alignment matter more than you think. Vicki’s ABC Mind-Body System begins with “Alignment,” and she shows how simply adjusting your posture can improve confidence, mobility and even organ function.

Second, breathing and mindfulness are game-changers. Conscious breathing – especially slow breaths from your diaphragm – can reduce stress, increase energy and support physical exertion.

Finally, attitude shapes aging. Vicki developed a second ABC system: Attitudes, Beliefs and Commitment. She believes aging well is largely a mindset choice.

I think you will love how Vicki combines gentle humor, real-life stories and actionable tips to help anyone over 50 move through life more intentionally – both physically and mentally.

Vicki’s book, “Aging Safely, Wisely and Well,” is much more than a fitness manual. It’s a compassionate and empowering guide to living with purpose, poise and presence after 50.

In the book, Vicki introduces two transformative ABC systems. The first – Alignment, Breathing, Centering – teaches people how to carry themselves better physically, leading to improved energy, posture and body function.

The second – Attitudes, Beliefs, Commitment – dives into the mental habits that either limit or liberate us as we age. Vicki encourages readers to become more aware of their self-talk and to choose uplifting attitudes and empowering beliefs.

She is especially passionate about helping older adults shift their mindset around aging. Vicki believes too many people adopt a defeatist attitude when they could instead be discovering new joys, hobbies and ways to serve.

As she explained, “You don’t need to write a book or host a podcast to have purpose – being present for your friends, your neighbors, or your grandkids can be deeply meaningful.”

Through stories of her own patients and decades of teaching, Vicki illustrates how simple changes, like improving posture, slowing down or practicing gratitude, can radically improve how we feel about ourselves and the world around us.

Her advice is also refreshingly practical. Whether it’s learning to say “I’ll try” instead of “I can’t,” being aware of how fast we’re rushing through life, or simply integrating her ABCs into daily activities, Vicki gives listeners tools they can start using today.

To learn more about Vicki or to purchase her book, visit her website at www.thera-fitness.com. Her book, “Aging Safely, Wisely and Well,” is also available on Amazon and in other bookstores.

While visiting Vicki’s website, you can request a free PDF of her “Nine Body Tips and Tricks for Relieving Stress.” You can also find Vicki on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

As Vicki reminded us, “Every day is a gift.” When we approach aging with intention, positivity and curiosity, the years ahead can be the most fulfilling of all.

That’s all for this week’s show. If you’d like to start living a more meaningful life, I encourage you to download our free guide to finding purpose, which is available at www.forwardfrom50.com.

I’ll have another inspirational interview on the next episode of the Forward From 50 podcast. Thanks for listening. If you like this show, please consider leaving a review wherever you download the episodes.

If you order Vicki’s book from a link above, Forward From 50 may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.