223 The ABCs of Aging Safely, Wisely and Well with C. Vicki Gold PT, MA

In this highly practical episode, Dr. Gillian Lockitch welcomes Vicki Gold, a retired physical therapist who shares decades of wisdom on how to age safely, wisely, and well. Drawing from her own journey and her work with older adults, Vicki introduces two transformative ABC frameworks—Alignment, Breathing, and Centering for physical vitality, and Attitudes, Beliefs, and Commitment for personal growth. Together, Gillian and Vicki explore the risks of rushing, the power of posture, the role of mindful breathing, and how even small shifts in self-talk can lead to greater confidence and freedom. Listeners will leave with simple, actionable strategies for aging vibrantly—starting with their very next breath. C. Vicki Gold, PT, MA is a retired physical therapist, educator, and wellness pioneer with over 50 years of clinical and teaching experience. As the founder of Thera‑Fitness, Inc., she has developed evidence-based mind‑body systems that blend traditional physical therapy with practices like yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, and the Alexander and Feldenkrais techniques. Vicki earned her degree in physiology, psychology, and kinesiology from Hunter College and completed her physical therapy training at New York University, where she also pursued postgraduate studies in biomechanics and ergonomics.She served as Director of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at LaGuardia Community College and has taught at NYU, Hunter College, and CSU Fresno. Her signature ABC mind–body systems—Alignment, Breathing, Centering for physical wellness and Attitudes, Beliefs, Commitment for mindset—are featured throughout her book, Aging Safely, Wisely, and Well Episode Timeline:  00:00 – Welcome and introduction 04:34 – Vicki Gold's personal path into physical therapy 05:50 – Introduction to the ABC System: Alignment, Breathing, Centering 15:12 – How posture and breathing influence aging and energy 15:51 – Preventing injuries in aging: the danger of rushing 24:03 – The second ABC System: Attitudes, Beliefs, Commitment 26:40 – The power of positive self-talk and affirmations 30:34 – Ancient body-mind techniques and their impact on aging 32:12 – Key takeaways and mind-body tips 33:51 – Wrap-up, how to connect, and call to action  Book a one-on-one call with Dr. Gillian Lockitch    Join the Growing Older Living Younger Community  Learn about Vicki Gold FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/TheraFitness LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cvickigoldptma/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/c.vicki.gold YOUTUBE:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHcZ3mWGyekm0TrJcdQjybA