There is a Japanese saying that we age from our feet. Can you give me an exact quote? Also can you explain this?

The Japanese saying you're referring to is:

**「人は足から老いる」**  

(*Hito wa ashi kara oiru*)  

**"A person ages from the feet."**

### Explanation:

This proverb reflects the traditional Japanese belief that **one's physical vitality and overall health are closely tied to the condition of their legs and feet**. It is both a metaphor and a practical observation.

#### Cultural & Health Context:

1. **Mobility as a Sign of Vitality**:  

   In Japanese culture, being able to move independently—walking, squatting, standing—is equated with maintaining dignity and quality of life into old age. As people lose strength or flexibility in their legs, it becomes harder to stay active, which can accelerate aging overall.

2. **Blood Circulation & Longevity**:  

   Foot health is also associated with good circulation and internal balance in traditional Eastern medicine. It’s believed that many ailments begin when circulation in the lower body deteriorates.

3. **Practical Wisdom**:  

   From a medical standpoint, **muscle strength in the legs declines earlier without use**, and difficulties with balance and walking are often early signs of frailty in old age. Hence, maintaining leg strength through walking, stretching, and other exercise is emphasized in both traditional advice and modern health practices in Japan.

### Related Practices:

- Many seniors in Japan practice **radio calisthenics (ラジオ体操)** and walking daily routines to keep their legs strong.

- Japanese bathing culture, which includes soaking and massaging the feet, also reflects the importance of lower body circulation.

**In short, the legs are seen as the foundation of one's health and independence—so aging often *starts* there.**

Sources

 AI generated.