In our third act, we have a profound opportunity—perhaps the greatest of our lifetime—to be truly present.
Children understand this. They don’t live in the past. They aren’t worried about what’s for dinner or what tomorrow will bring. They live entirely in the NOW—and they are constantly inviting us to join them there.
The question is: are we awake enough to accept the invitation?
Inspired by the teachings of Eckhart Tolle in The Power of Now, this article explores what it means to practice Active Grandparenting and Active Aging, how to optimize your presence with the people who matter the most, and why your physical health—especially your protein intake—plays a vital role in helping you fully enjoy these precious moments.
Why Presence Matters in Life and Grandparenting
“Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have.” — Eckhart Tolle
We spend so much time doing. Organizing. Cleaning. Planning. It’s easy to fall into a rhythm of logistics, even during time with the people who matter the most.
Presence is what the people we care about feel most. Especially children. It’s the eye contact during a story, the laugh we share over spilled paint, the patience we bring when they ask “why” for the tenth time.
These are the moments that create memories and build bonds.
3 Simple Ways to Be More Present With Everyone (especially grandchildren)
1. Pause and Breathe
Before you answer a question or redirect a meltdown, take a conscious breath. This tiny pause shifts your energy—and brings you out of reaction mode and into connection.
2. Create Phone-Free Time
Designate time (with your grandchild) that’s completely screen-free. This signals: You matter. I’m here with you. Even 20 uninterrupted minutes can make a lifelong impression.
3. Let Go of the Plan
Allow spontaneity. Kids don’t follow scripts—and neither should we. Follow their curiosity. When you release the need to manage every moment, you discover the magic that’s organically unfolding.
Why Your Health Matters for Active Grandparenting and Aging Well.
Being present also means being physically able to keep up with the things you enjoy being able to do—whether it’s actively playing with your grandchildren and staying active in your life. You know, things like getting a carryon suitcase into an overhead compartment, or schlepping a bag of mulch.
And one of the most overlooked aspects of maintaining strength and vitality as we age? Protein intake.
3 Reasons to Supplement Protein as You Age
1. Protect Lean Muscle Mass
After age 50, we naturally begin to lose muscle. This affects strength, balance, and energy. Protein helps us maintain what we’ve built—and rebuild what we’ve lost.
2. Support Bone Health
Protein works with calcium and magnesium to strengthen our skeletal system. Without adequate protein, our bones are more vulnerable to fractures and degeneration.
3. Improve Recovery and Energy
Whether you’ve been gardening, chasing toddlers, or exercising, protein supports quicker recovery, better stamina, and overall well-being.
My Favorite Protein Supplement for Active Agers
I use and recommend Paleovalley’s 100% Grass-Fed Bone Broth Protein Powder (Unflavored).
Why I love it:
It’s completely clean—no additives, preservatives, or artificial sweeteners.
It’s easy to digest, even for sensitive stomachs.
It blends seamlessly into smoothies, soups, or even your morning coffee.
➡️ Click here to learn more or try it yourself.
Taking care of yourself isn’t separate from grandparenting—it’s a BIG part of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Active Grandparenting?
Active Living and Active Grandparenting is about energizing your life. Redefining your role in relationships. And Living and Grandparenting with purpose. It’s a mindful approach that emphasizes presence, engagement, and intentional living. It’s not about being busy or entertained—it’s about showing up undistracted for the moments that matter most.
How can I be more present in my life and with my grandkids?
Simple practices like conscious breathing, putting down your phone, and letting go of rigid plans can dramatically increase your presence. The key is to slow down and truly witness the moments of your life and being your grandkids without distraction. We are SO distracted these days!
Why do we need more protein as we age?
As we age, we lose muscle and bone density. Protein helps preserve both, supporting strength, mobility, and recovery. It also helps regulate metabolism and prevent age-related frailty and accelerated aging.
What kind of protein is best for Active Agers?
Clean, easy-to-digest proteins are ideal. Bone broth protein, like Paleovalley’s Grass-Fed Bone add link Broth Protein, is gentle on the stomach, high in collagen, and supports joints, bones, and skin health.
How much protein should grandparents be eating?
While individual needs vary, most older adults benefit from 1.0 to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. So between 30-40 grams per meal. Which can be challenging through food.Supplementing with high-quality protein powder can help bridge the gap—and I recommend to all my coaching clients supplementing with a scoop of clean, easy to digest protein in a mug of tea or broth between meals. Its a super-hack for Active Agers and Active Grandparents to get enough protein daily.
In Conclusion: The Present Is a Gift—Don’t Think It Away, Embrace It Fully!
Active Grandparenting and Active Aging begins with awareness.
By slowing down, breathing, and nourishing both body and soul, you’re not only giving your grandchildren memories—they’re giving you something just as powerful: a return to the moment.
Keep showing up.
Stay strong.
Make the NOW the most vibrant moments of life.
Want more resources for strong, present, healthy and active grandparenting and aging?
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Kristen Coffield
I am the Founder of Active Grandparenting™ & The Culinary Cure™ and Author of Active Grandparenting. I am a passionate advocate for food as medicine, life navigator and culinary coach. This is my space for sharing what excites, inspires and motivates me to live my best life. It began as a recipe blog for nourishing, simple, weekday meals and has become something much bigger… a guide to resilient wellness. I am excited to share my knowledge of how daily habits can cumulatively help you to live like you mean it and age like you want to.
