Saturday, November 24, 2012

Anti-Aging - Get Better Not Older (Real Anti-Aging Secrets)

When I called my first 'lady' she jumped out of her chair and walked briskly toward me, I was astounded, is this the new 90! She was also dressed smartly in slacks and a sweater set. I did her study and we talked about many things - family, travel, dreams - she was really engaging and I was in awe. We both wanted to know more about each other. I asked her what her secret was in looking so great at 90. She told me:

1) She takes care of herself (physically, emotionally and spiritually)

2) Eats in moderation

3) Enjoys family and friends

My second 'lady' had the same demeanor, looking at least 20 years younger than 90, in classic time tested fashion and very interested in me and curious about the study I did on her heart. I asked her what her secret was. Here was her answer:

1) Laugh

2) Pray

3) Drink Chardonnay!

They were both inspiring, vibrant and had great attitudes. Even with medical conditions (one had a hip replacement), they didn't complain and shrugged off any discomfort. I can tell you most older patients love to complain and whine when they are uncomfortable.

Meeting these two great ladies brought to mind the Blue Zones. The Blue Zones consist of 5 areas in the world where the typical lifespan is over 100 years - these people are vibrant, happy and healthy. If I'm going to live to be 100 I certainly don't want to be stuck in a nursing home, I want to be the pillar and post of a family or community and kicking up a storm to boot, with attitude and everything.

So, back to the Blue Zones - The 5 regions identified and discussed in Dan Buettner's book, Blue Zones, are:

Sardinia, Italy

Okinawa, Japan

Loma Linda, California

Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

Icaria, Greece

From Dan's research, he came up with certain characteristics that people in the Blue Zones share, called the Power 9. Here they are, take note:

Just Move - An active lifestyle leads to longevityPurposeful outlook - Have clarity about your role in life.Down shift on stress.Eat to 80% full.Plant slant -meat is more of a condiment than a staple in most Blue Zones.Wine @ 5 - Moderate drinking has positive effects (I'm not espousing this one- since I don't drink).Belong to a community - Belonging to a faith-based community extends life in general.Loved ones first - Focusing on family in life and keeping family members close to home will improve one's life.Right Tribe - Having a social circle that promotes healthy lifestyles is important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle yourself.

From the first time I read about the Blue Zones it has fascinated me. I am striving everyday to incorporate some aspect of this lifestyle in my life. I haven't checked off everything, but I'm actively working on it. I'm especially excited about having the "Right Tribe", so the long and healthy life can become viral; I want to have lots of friends and family celebrating a healthy 100th birthday and I hope my two 'ladies' will too.

Hope you enjoyed this article. Don't forget to stop by my website and sign up for my free e-course, 9 Secrets to Being Fit and Healthy for Life, plus quick healthy tips you can use today. http://www.livingabundantlyhealthy.com/. Also connect with me at http://facebook.com/livingabundantlyhealthy.


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