How Reframing Aging Helps Me to Stay Vital and Energized

I have often wondered why it is that some people are so active and energetic well into the times of their lives that society defines as “Golden Years.”  By definition, the term “Golden Years” feels limiting. 

Undoubtedly, If I were to live my life by societal definitions, it would most definitely look very different! 

During the deep dive into research for my book, I was honored to meet people well into their 80s and even 90s who explained with zest and vigor the traditional healing methods of their countries. 

In the specific case of researching one of the Blue Zones, areas where people live active lives to 100 and beyond, my octogenarian host didn’t miss a beat for over 2 hours telling me the secrets to his longevity.    

There is one fact that is undeniable. With the passage of time, we all grow older. That said, what we do within that time can have a big impact on how we actually “Age.” Although our chronological age says one thing, our biological age can say another. And vice versa. 

It’s more than just genetics that can determine how we age. External factors can have a big impact.  

One of those factors is societal definitions and expectations of aging.  So often people may offer a compliment and then add “at your age” or “for your age.” It appears that societal expectations at every age are so indelible that they shape the very way aging happens…if we believe them.

In many cultures of the world as well as in the Blue Zones, “elders” are revered for their wisdom and stability and are an integral part of society.  This societal honor and support undoubtedly fuel vitality with a true sense of belonging and contribution. This, in turn, has a positive effect on the aging process which I have witnessed in person. 

The spark and energy in the eyes of an octogenarian as they talk about the activities, people and way of living that keep them young is contagious and inspiring! 

Research has shown that when someone “retires,” cognitive decline occurs more rapidly.  In the Blue Zone of Okinawa Japan, there is no word for retirement. Instead, they use the word Ikigai, which roughly translates to “living your purpose.” Moreover, it’s about feeling that what you are doing makes a difference in people’s lives. 

And Ikigai can be diversified. It could be about work or raising a family. And it can also be about tending a garden to share with others or teaching things that bring a new perspective, inspiration or transformation.

Seven Things I do Every Day to Stay Energized and to Feel Vital

1. Focus on spending time with people where the mutual energy is flowing and uplifting. There is nothing more draining for me than to be in an environment of “energy vampires.” Since time is our most valuable commodity, I am selective about how and with whom I spend it.
2. Stay interested and curious about life through learning something new every day. The more I learn, the more I see how much more there is to learn! It’s exciting to discover new things in different fields. 
3. Share with others experiences and knowledge that can inspire and assist their journey. Each of us has something that could help someone. Even a supportive word or a compliment can make a difference in someone’s day. 
4. Do things that bring joy. I like spending time in nature in places that fill my heart with wonder and awe. Nature is such an amazing teacher, and when I become an observer, and watch the interconnectedness in nature, I learn so much about how we all are interconnected.  
5. See the world through the lens of possibility and gratitude. Although there are many difficulties out there, possibilities exist. I find that when I am in gratitude, new paths appear.   
6. Do some form of movement every day to be ready to experience those new adventures. Walking, Yoga, HIIT and Resistance training all help me stay conditioned and feel healthy. (I have listed them in detail in my free report). Start with what you can do now and build on that. Consistency will get you to the desired destination. 
7. Seek new adventures. This could be joining a local interest group or climbing Kilimanjaro. There are no limits on what adventure means! Even the “smallest” adventure could lead to a new journey. I love to travel to healing locations and spend time in different places with various curative properties. This is also why I’m passionate about my journeys of self-empowerment through my transformational travel escapes called Regeneration Jumpstart.

Life is a beautiful journey that can be experienced fully when we allow ourselves to make the rest of our lives the best of our lives.

To Your Best and Highest,
Kit