Because I lead a health-focused life, I sponge up books, articles, and blog and social media posts that reside in this space. Within the last five years I have seen a proliferation of anti-aging product pitches that boost regenerative beauty. Admittedly, there have been times when I became intoxicated by the notion that my dark spots, wrinkles, sags, and flabs can be reduced, if not eradicated, with yet another $150 per month, or more, commitment. But then I remember my long-gone and much beloved grandmother Lois and I think, Stop the nonsense.
Lois was born in 1897, an unfathomably far-back date. In my memory she epitomized a feisty version of grace and displayed dogged determination to get each of us to embrace her unique version of what’s right. (She preached about the proper way to make nearly anything, set a table, search for Easter eggs, dress for dinner, feed the birds, and make a bed, as examples.) Lois’s graceful side came through as she unknowingly demonstrated to us young’uns how to accept aging as an inevitable part of living a life. I believe she was able to accept her own aging because at the same time, she held laser-like attention on good nutrition. She advocated eating all colors of the rainbow; not denying what brings pleasure but eating such things in moderation; home cooking and doing so with love; never overcooking; eating a variety of foods; selecting fresh, not frozen, whenever possible; and always eating at the dining room table.
While Lois died over 25 years ago at the age of 93, she is still a beacon of inspiration for me. Even if she were alive today and exposed to the frenzy of anti-aging messaging, I imagine she would conduct her own older age with the conviction that to truly age well one must respect what the body needs most to avoid avoidable diseases and feel one’s best. Her focus would not be on calories, gimmicky skin care products, and laser or Botox treatments. (Please know I don’t begrudge anyone from following these paths, if your version of “right” suggests desire or even necessity.) When it comes to longevity the goal isn’t just to live as long as possible. The true objective is to live as vibrantly and energetically as possible, for as long as possible. So how exactly can this be achieved?
1. Think of food as medicine.
Generally, conventional medicine has ignored a significant category of substances in food that can alter our biology. Nutrients (such as polyphenols which come from colorful vegetables) affect our gene expression, they can change our hormones and immune system, and with every bite, our gut flora. Thinking of food as medicine can have profound impact on our health.
2. Experiment with fasting.
Fasting stimulates mitochondria production and energy metabolism. There are two main types of fasting practices that can be played around with. Intermittent fasting (IF): going for 14 to 16 hours without food (usually overnight, in the early morning, and after dinner hours). Time-restricted eating (TRE): limiting the eating period to 8 to 12 hours during the daytime. Both provide health benefits, but I recommend consulting with a healthcare provider prior to fasting.
3. Fitness and rest.
Exercise reduces markers of inflammation and cellular aging. Consider blending Eastern and Western exercise techniques for better results, including mind-body health. This fusion works well and does so by addressing our need for physical activity with impactful meditative mental activity. Exercise should stimulate, as well as relax. Think about ways to create a harmonious fitness mix for yourself.
4. Explore topics of deeper wellness.
Explore health-related topics such as unlocking the keys to moderating cholesterol, or common medications that should never have become common. Remember, this is your health journey, your one precious life, so be proactive and continue learning.
5. Look at everyday habits.
For example, do you take care of your feet; do you enjoy gardening; have you taken a soothing bath lately; called a friend; or picked up a good book? Revisit priorities and find pleasure and better health by creating new and improved everyday habits.
Grandmother Lois called a few days before she died to offer assurance that she had lived a good life and was ready to let go. I was in my twenties at the time and unable to accept her words in the manner she hoped I would. However, as the years move along, I often reflect on our conversation. Yes, Lois had privilege in ways many people do not, but I hold fast to the premise that she inherently knew her ability to age well was predicated on taking time to make choices that served her best, something we all can do. It just so happened that one in particular stood out: On her dinner table she used food as medicine long before the term existed, and here I am still reaping the benefits.
So, what about anti-aging? Since we are indeed aging, should our time, money, and energy be about reversing the process? My appeal is to encourage a reframing by taking the focus away from product fixes or temporary, and often expensive, beauty treatments and placing it on lifestyle changes that promote vibrant health and wellbeing, well into older age. It is time to embrace your inner Lois!
Mary Daniel is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach dedicated to the pursuit of good health for everyone. Through her business, Your One Precious Life, she partners with clients and communities and in the spirit of collaboration, paves the way for health transformations.
Interested in a free health consultation? Visit: www.youronepreciouslife.com or email mary@youronepreciouslife.com.
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