During his morning scrolling the other day, my index-finger-typing husband noticed a pop-up about an article on longevity. He is not a book reader; however, he is loyal to online articles, news and information of interest. This caught his eye, and thankfully, he shared it with me.
Unlike many investigations on how to live longer, age more slowly, and defy our birthdate, there is a growing body of interest and science exploring the psychology of aging. The connection between the mind and the physical body is irrefutable. This article is suggesting we address our mindset and perceptions rather than squeeze into our lives another supplement, a martial arts class, or read another self-help book.
I have not fact-checked the study and findings. I do know that it makes sense to me, aligns with my experience, and powerfully describes the danger to our health of busyness, urgency and mindlessness. I lived like that for many years; my ego was my master. The clock told me what to do next. I worked on my life, not in my life.
From Dr. Emma Sartori, Gerontologist at the University of Cambridge
“The true secret to aging well isn’t found in a bottle or a clinic – it’s in the way we engage with the world around us. People who age gracefully have found a way to tap into the power of genuine absorption, to become fully immersed in the present moment. It’s a skill that can be cultivated, and the rewards are extraordinary.”
There is scientific evidence that elevated levels of stress hormones not only affect our moods but also increase inflammation in the body and lead to atrophy of the memory-related areas of our brain. Bad things happen, we worry, people die. We all will experience tension. Many of us, despite being “retired,” maintain an unhealthy level of stress so that our bodies are chronically churning cortisol.
Pop culture recommendations such as “let them, just chill, let it go, even Hakuna Matata” (best song from The Lion King), feel superficial, supernatural and unattainable to me. I lean toward greater understanding, seeking peace within the turmoil, and “stopping to smell the roses”.
As a writer, I am always seeking new words to describe objects, scenes, and feelings. Coming across the word eudaimonia felt like I had uncovered a beautiful gemstone. I wanted to wear it immediately. It is an ancient Greek concept that means living aligned with our true values, virtues and wisdom. Often seen as the Stoic way to a deeply fulfilling life, it is sustainable and internally driven, unlike the transitory nature of happiness.
The how to achieve this state is simple, not easy. Stop counting the years, the number of runs, and the kilometres hiked. Instead, focus on the present moment. Learn to be genuinely absorbed in the activities, conversations, and chores of life. Being actively engaged in surroundings, interests, and relationships, without measuring time and effort, triggers the body to release beneficial hormones and “feel good” neurotransmitters. Science reassures me that being in a state of eudaimonia slows down the aging process and adds to my vitality. What a relief to end my battle with time.
The other day, I decided to start small, set myself up for success. I was driving a familiar waterside route on a clear day with dry roads. The purpose of choosing this particular way home was to fill up my gas tank. I am loyal to the fuel stop that still is a service station, so that I don’t have to get out of the car. With the challenge of eudaimonia upon me, I set out to notice the blue-green waves crashing into the rocky shoreline, the small icebergs still bobbing lazily close to the beach, and the ever-changing landscape on the hill side. I was committed to being mindful, consciously noticing. I drove right past the service station, oblivious to the shift to town traffic and speed limits. Thankfully, something triggered my memory, and I turned back. Had I been absorbed in the present moment and my surroundings, I would have registered the buildup of traffic and loss of the view of the Bay, and I wouldn’t have missed my stop. Simple – not easy.
As I reflect upon my career, I admit there were many moments when I was oblivious to all but the immediate present. Sadly, that dedication to my work often robbed me of attention and time for my family and friends. This insight takes me to an examination of my priorities and decision-making. Now is the time for a shift. I ache for a greater and consistent sense of presence and engagement with people and the world around me. I know it can be found in the life I have now. I don’t need to undertake a grand gesture. I will find it in the simple acts of daily living; the moments in the kitchen, in the gym, at my desk, on trails in the woods, on the floor with my grandchildren, running into a friend on Main Street.
“In a world that is constantly urging us to move faster, to achieve more, to chase the ever-elusive fountain of youth, these findings offer a refreshing and inspiring alternative.” Dr. Amelia Sinclair, Sociologist, University of Edinburgh