We can learn much from the Giant Sequoia
Strength in the Giant Sequoia is gained through their extensive interwoven root systems, rapid growth, and thick, fire-resistant bark that protects their sturdy trunks. By comparison, humans gain physical strength primarily through muscular hypertrophy caused by resistance training - stimulating muscle repair, growth, and neural adaptations that improve the nervous system's ability to activate muscles. Humans that do not engage in progressive resistance training, do not do as well with Activities of Daily Living later in life. Gardening is not progressive resistance training, nor is Yoga or Tai Chi. But they do have their place and can be very important tools to a better health span. By adopting progressive resistance training into one's life, greater strength, balance and agility can be acquired, and thus one will be working at a higher level in the garden, hiking trail, and in one's all-important Yoga or Tai Chi Sessions, Neglect strength training, and one will be working at a regressed level.
The Giant Sequoia thrives in a supportive forest ecosystem, relying on other trees and natural processes like fire for nutrients and space to grow; in contrast, Sequoias generally do not do well in isolation. In their natural habitat they can generally be seen surrounded by other Sequoias, their shallow root systems providing collective stability against strong winds. They also engage in root grafting, where their roots fuse, allowing them to share water, nutrients, and defense signals. By comparison, humans thrive in some countries that have supportive communities for the elderly (Japan, Netherlands), where one's age is fully integrated into every facet of society, allowing people of all ages to live productive lives. However, in other countries (United States), we are not so lucky. Age integration is generally nonexistent. Whether one thrives or fails in these locales is largely dependent on monetary means, and resourcefulness.
The Giant Sequoia's resilience is a result of its thick, fire-resistant bark, deep root systems, and dependence on fire for seed release and clearing competing vegetation. The Sequoia has adapted biologically over millennia to these specific environmental challenges. Human resilience on the other hand is more about adaptive cognitive, emotional, and social responses to a variety of adversities we encounter on life's journey. One key aspect to better navigating this journey is to harness the trait known as self-efficacy. This is an individual's belief in their ability to successfully perform certain behaviors and skills, thus increased confidence. Greater self-efficacy correlates with increased participation and adherence to both physical and mental demands, which in turn leads to better physical and mental health and, consequently, better health span, and the potential for greater longevity.
Start small, and as confidence builds with acquiring one new motor skill, move to other motor skills or goals. Before long, you will have created an assortment of new movement patterns, greater strength, and your biological clock's physiology will begin to reverse itself. Self-efficacy is created.