September 19, 2023
Practicing Longevity involves adopting and living a healthy lifestyle.
It consists in making mindful choices daily starting in our youth and being consistent over our lifespan.
Whether you are 38 or 88, you should want to look your best, feel your best, and live a long life……….. Why not?
Longevity has two components:
- Chronological Lifespan – How long you live.
- Healthspan – The quality of your years (free from disability and disease.) http://peterattiamd.com
It has been something I have been unconsciously practicing my entire life, and after retiring from my preventive health profession, I trademarked my passion as AGE-GILITY!
You can survive and thrive only by taking control of your own story of challenges and embracing your power!
I never had a weight problem. In fact, I always tried to gain weight until I was diagnosed with Grave’s Disease, a hyperthyroid disease, all around the same time as the trial and tribulations of menopause.
Iodine radiation obliviated my thyroid and immediately sent me into hypothyroidism with new problems and unwanted weight gain.
Genetics plays a 20% part of what life throws at us. My choice of the 80% determined my life’s path in health, appearance, Longevity, and happiness.
No matter your circumstances, YOU hold an unbelievable amount of POWER over how you:
- feel
- look
- your emotional well-being
- how long and……. well, you live,
- and the power to limit negativity when it arises.
Consider your own goals of what is important to you!
Start by making one to three small changes until they become small habits.
Then, move on to the subsequent three changes you want to make.
Within three to six months, you will see the positive attitude and growth you have made.
Living a life with AGE-GILITY is living with constant growth.
Truly being ALIVE ……. means constant GROWTH!
How to practice Longevity and promote AGE-GILITY:
1. Balanced Diet – Eat a nutritious diet rich in:
- fruits,
- vegetables,
- whole grains,
- proteins,
- healthy fats
“Food is the most powerful drug.” Dr. Barry Sears (leading anti-inflammatory nutrition expert).
2. Regular Movement – Engage in physical activity regularly for:
- flexibility,
- balance,
- strength, and
- cardio to keep your body active and fit.
“Exercise is the closest thing we to an anti-aging pill.” Alex Leif, MD, Harvard Medical School.
3. Stress Management Practicing:
- deep breathing,
- meditation,
- and spending time in nature ……to promote mental well-being
4. Social Connections – Maintain strong connections with friends and family to foster a sense of belonging and support.
5. Avoid Harmful Habits –
- Don’t smoke
- limit alcohol consumption
- avoid recreational drug use
6. Get Regular Check-ups – Schedule health check-ups with your health care providers. MD, Dental Hygienist/Dentist to be preventive and proactive!
7. Get Your Sleep – 7-9 hours each night to help your body refresh, repair and reset.
8. Stay Mentally Active – Be a LIFE-LONG LEARNER
- Challenge your brain to learn new skills,
- reading, and
- engaging in hobbies to keep your mind sharp!
Until next week, keep an open mindset (parachute)…… challenge yourself (get out of your comfort zone) …… and Trust Your Truths to keep growing…… and living with AGE-GILTIY.