Long Live Longevity

Each minute, hour, and day we are alive moves the needle to getting older. That is life, and time waits for no one, they say. What constitutes aging and how one perceives it is fascinating to me. Here lies one facet of living that is intriguing to ponder and can be channeled with beneficial outlets to optimize longevity.

Research has shown the adverse effects of life stressors on aging can place a tremendous amount of cumulative damage to our body down to the molecular level. All the markers required to be healthy become disproportionate, resulting in structural and functional abnormalities observed in cells, tissues, and systems. From a weakened immune system, neuromusculoskeletal degradation, and altered mood to heart problems and diabetes, our health can rapidly deteriorate, compromising our lifespan. The study of longevity genes is a developing science. About 25 percent of the variation in the human lifespan is estimated to be governed by genetics. However, which genes and how they affect longevity are not well known. So through deductive logic, we have at least a tangible and productive 75 percent to work with for living longer.

What can we adopt into our lifestyle for anti-aging? When having pure enjoyment and passion in daily living, this action will help one to be young at heart and soul. Stay active and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity; it is easily doable and aids in injury prevention. Be socially interactive for mental fitness, maintain regular reading to boost brainpower, and play puzzle games to maintain high levels of cognitive function. If not already, one can establish a healthy diet by opting for a plant-based or Mediterranean diet, which includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, nuts, whole grains, and not much sugar, red meat, or processed food. 

Equally essential is the commitment to ingrain a positive demeanor in our daily regimen. Exercising this bright outlook will help sustain healthy well-being and protect one from depression in the long run. Furthermore, taking up the Eastern philosophy to stay in harmony with all ties to human nature – our innate scope for reason and emotion, our potential for creativity, and our ability to communicate – plays a valuable role. Carry the holistic approach starting with inner peace to help calm the mind and keep the physical body in tune. More would include centered breathing, visualization, and meditation, which promote healing and reduces stress and pain. Last but not least, Tai chi and qi gong blend physical exercise through gentle movements with mental focus, breath control, and relaxation. All of these anti-inflammatories and strain relievers are organic and bodes well to practice.

The above-mentioned is the ideal yin and yang mold for aging gracefully. The focus on nurturing wholesome spirits in sync with the practical tools to enhance our health will project how we naturally look and feel. I have been around many elders who are so energetic in mind, body, and vigor that they do not show their age. These folks are constantly on the move, engage in things to keep them happily occupied, and still possess tremendous recall in sharing their countless stories. The common thread appears they are merry, active, eat within limits, and are motivated to savor what lies around the next corner. I am awe-inspired by this and am sure you have had similar encounters. The oldest living person today is Maria Branyas Morera, at 116 years old. She credits her longevity to “order, tranquility, good connection with family and friends, contact with nature, emotional stability, no worries, no regrets, lots of positivity, and staying away from toxic people.” 

Unfortunately, aging is non-negotiable. However, one does have the means to affect it healthily and vibrantly. Whatever the day may hold, spend every waking moment doing the feats that make you smile and comfortable, limit duress in your life by adapting and solving them at your doorstep, and the “fountain of youth” can be obtainable. Finally, do not get caught up fretting about the small stuff. Commit to taking good care of yourself and have the attitude to “go with the flow.” 

Weaving the integrative (mind-body) model for successful aging is priceless. It is vital to shift from our current “break-and-fix” model to one that focuses on predicting and preventing, which will reap longevity benefits. From my vantage, age is only a number. What we do, sense, and reflect on ourselves are conducive to journeying a long life.