The Art of Aging

The program is written, and in doing the research on pro-aging I sure learned a lot.  Probably enough that it’s changed my life and due to this, I’ll probably never miss another workout again.

First of all, I took the organ systems of the body and looked at how they aged.  In addition, I looked at what steps could be made to slow or stop the normal aging process.

Also, I did a spreadsheet that had each organ system and then marked the action the experts recommended to remedy the situation.  As a result, I noted there wasn’t any organ system that didn’t benefit from regular exercise.  Especially relevant, all organ systems did better with a healthy weight, whole-foods, eight glasses of water a day, and a good nights sleep.

Seems like all the lifestyle changes that health coaches support, also support pro-aging.

Cathy Sykora

Cathy Sykora

Founder, The Health Coach Group

Cathy helps health coaches build and maintain successful businesses that improve the lives of others.

The Big Surprise For Pro-Aging

Also, I included another system that isn’t the organ system.  Another system we looked at was habits and social.  While exercise is almost certainly the physical front-runner in what you can do to age well, your social life also seems to have a massive impact on quality of life and longevity.

Also, all the studies are showing that staying connected and belonging are probably as important as the physical changes we make.

I saw a Ted Talk this week and snapped this screenshot.  Susan Pinker was asking the question “What reduces your chances of dying the most?”  While this question is a little different than “what allows us to age well?”  The results are surprising.  Consequently, in my research, I came across an article by an exercise physiologist that brings the placement of results shown into question, most of all the placement of exercise.

Regardless of placement, the fact that social interaction is vital in aging is indisputable.

Social Interaction is Important

So, what does that mean for those of us who are introverts?  Are we doomed to live a shorter life due to our discomfort in social situations?  Not necessarily.  Extroverts become invigorated with groups of people, in comparison, introverts find it draining.  Consequently, it’s especially relevant for introverts to find a way to be social within their comfort level.  It seems like smaller groups and social media are two ways that an introvert can embrace becoming more social.

What about making new friends?  Probably not the best solution for an introvert, yet it would sound good to an extrovert.

Here’s another idea, and it will give you double points in aging well – volunteer.  Find a way that you can contribute and volunteer.  In contrast, there is a purpose to the gathering and there would be work to do or someone to help, teach, or cheer on.  As a result, the energy and focus would not be on the introvert.  Additionally, living life with meaning is one of the ways to age well, so not only would you get out and belong, but you would also be doing something meaningful.

People who are extroverts will be naturals, but longevity is not yours alone.  Most of all, loneliness can be a real problem as we age, leading to depression and health issues.  It is worth getting out and making an effort.  Find a way that works for you.

Art of Aging

If you are a health coach and work with clients who are age 30 and beyond, who may be concerned with aging well and the best possible way, be sure to work with this program.

If you are 30 plus and wanting to age well, let me know, and I’ll get you in contact with a health coach who is working with this program.  It’s going to be a “quality of life saver.”

 

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