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 Living longer, living better is the wish of
everyone. Man has dreamed since the early ages of
the “Fountain of Youth.” Let’s not mislead
ourselves. It does not exist. However, there are
many recipes, coaches and gurus who endeavor to
guide us towards healthy goals.
From the medical point of view, there are several
important basic principles:
1. “Primum non nocere”, do no harm as our ancient
teachers would say. It means stay away from any
entrapment caused by the tempting and harmful
elements that surround us. For example addictions to
drugs, alcohol, rich and fast food, excessive
exposure to sunlight, idleness and other noxious
ways of life that we are exposed to every day of our
existence.
2. Keep your body, “ organs and muscles,” in the
best possible shape. We should be attentive to very
simple things like keeping a good straight posture,
and walk as much as possible instead of jumping into
a vehicle for all errands. Eat healthy and in
moderation, remain well hydrated avoiding carbonated
drinks and stimulants like caffeine. We don’t have
to look like a body builder, maintenance is all what
we need. We should exercise and if we have time,
join a group to work-out to practice any type of gym
such as, aquacise, aerobic dancing, yoga, pilates
classes or breath work.
3. Train your brain for it needs just as much
exercise as the rest of your body. If the muscles
start shrinking after we reach our 40’s the brain
size starts decreasing after the age of 20. Minimize
the easy outlets that have become essential parts of
out daily life: television, computer, video games,
cellular phones. Remember how important it was and
still is to read and write. Can we still compose
letters or is our writing limited to e-mails and
text messaging? There is a memory center in our
brain that needs to permanently be functional. Try
to memorize lessons, poems, prayers, foreign
languages, speeches, anything of value. Play
challenging games, like bridge, chess, checkers,
crossword puzzles, etc.
4. Many among us have limitations because they are
affected with chronic ailments, after effects of
injuries or diseases that need to be nursed and
dealt with. They also need to train in the best
possible fashion within their own abilities
following the advice of their health providers.
5. Don’t be mislead by the ads and marketing ploys
that promise you a quick fix and results. They woe
you by advertising with well-known actors and good
looking couples. If the advertised product is not
sold over the counter and can only be provided by
medical prescription, they tell you to “ask your
doctor.” What they are really saying is to “tell”
your doctor that you want that medication. Remember
that there are probably four or five other
equivalent, non-advertised drugs that have already
proven themselves and are most likely less
expensive.
In summary, always use your common sense. You
certainly don’t have to go through medical or
nursing school to know what your mind and your body
expect of you. Remember what your mother often told
you, “eat your vegetables, stand up straight, do
your homework, go outside and play.” |
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