Empowering women through fitness at 65

An inspiring story of Veena Sharma (Khyaal Community Member)

“My name is Veena Sharma, I am 65 years old and I live in Sangrur, Punjab. I was born and brought up in Punjab. My father was a government employee and my mother was a housewife. I have 3 younger brothers. Being the only daughter, I was the apple of my father’s eye. I was a bright student and always stood first in class. But I was equally naughty as well. Determination is in my nature. I told my family that I would not get married until I had finished my education and found a job. I did my M.A. in English Literature from DAV college Jalandhar in 1981. I got a job in the telephone department even before the results were declared. After a few months, I got a good job in a bank. When my condition was fulfilled, I got married in 1982. My daughter was born in 1983 and my son in 1993. My daughter got married in 2007 and the years passed happily.

I went through a difficult time so I started meditating again. After living in Delhi for 36 years, I moved to Punjab post retirement. I wanted to do something meaningful and make use of my free time. I have always been health conscious. I practised yoga from an early age. So I decided to open a gym exclusively for women. I had never run a business in my life so taking this decision was not easy. But I was determined to do it anyway. My friends encouraged me to go ahead.

I used some of the money from my provident fund to finance the gym. Since, my house is relatively big, I could accommodate the gym in one of the rooms.  As it was a home gym, it was more convenient for the women. Many of my friends joined in. Initially I bought just two equipments, but later on added more to the gym. I opened the it in 2019 and it was going great, but then COVID hit. I had to keep it closed for some time. I reopened it in 2021. I got a good response again through word of mouth. I run a two-hour session in the morning where I teach various exercises and finish with a 10-minute meditation. The gym is going well. It has helped me and other women to stay fit. I am a proud entrepreneur now.

I also enjoy travelling. I often go on short trips with my girl gang. We spend a lot of time together and have a lot of fun. I am also part of a spiritual group. I love being with my friends. I wish to always be happy and spread happiness around me. My advice to my fellow seniors is to always go with the flow and enjoy every moment. Life will always present us with challenges, but with acceptance and gratitude we can find our peace.” - Veena Sharma (Khyaal Community Member)