Living Longer
We all get older, but some do it faster than others. The idea should be to make the most of every day, to be involved in life because research shows it has a direct impact on quality of life and longevity.
Aging need not be negative. In fact, those who have a more positive view of aging live some seven years longer than those with a negative outlook, according to a Yale University study.
Here are some of my personal tips for aging well and longevity:
< - Try new things as often as you can
< - Find satisfaction in your endeavors and your abilities
< - Keep only cheerful friends
< - Keep learning so the brain doesn’t idle
< - Enjoy the simple things and joys of life, i.e. family, friends, pets
< - Laugh often, long and loud, and spend lots and lots of time with those who make you laugh
< - Enjoy life to the fullest, and when tears happen (which they will) grieve and move on
< - In your home, surround yourself with what you love, whatever it is: mementos, music, plants
< - Cherish your health: if it is good, preserve it, if it is unstable improve it or get help
< - Give back through volunteering which is a source of satisfaction while being good for your health
< - Don’t take guilt trips (they are a waste of time)
< - At every opportunity, tell those you love that you love them
< - Forgive now because you might not get a second chance
< - Dance at every opportunity for the health of your body and spirit
< - Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle
< - Be aware of your mortality because it fuels positive behaviors such as kindness and helpfulness as well as better health decisions
And, even if your children chide you for eating dinner early, pay them no mind. Many studies have shown that eating dinner early and fasting for 12 hours could be the secret to long-lasting brain health and improved memory function.
In short, laugh, keep busy and eat early. Nothing difficult about that, is there?
