There are two ways of arriving at a ripe old age; ready to take on the world, or fade away and become invisible. Since I’ve reached such an age only a few days ago.  I thought that I would share what I have learned.

• Eat only when your hungry and always in smaller portions.
• A full 8 hrs. sleep is at the top of the list for mental sharpness.
• Meditation will not only reveal your own wisdom, but has been shown in studies to lengthen ones life.
• Stop talking, respond less, and listen more.
• Review the supplements your taking and read up on magnesium.
• If you’ve had life long depression, and have not taken care of it, then this period of your life will be hellish.
• Exercise, move your body.  Gardening, and housework are not counted as exercise.
• Pride takes on a better meaning and is more internal.  You can’t still be that insecure?
• Find a place in your community where you can do some selfless service.  You always receive more than you give.
• By this time in your life, you should know to spend your time with friends that are supportive and less opinionated.
• Stop being rushed into activities that you don’t want to do.  Make “I’ll have to get back to you” your standard reply.
• If your not alone, practice it.  Loneliness is based on regret and dependence.
• Greet strangers on the street or throughout your day.  It takes you out of your own troubles and makes you and someone else happier.
• Wear what ever makes you happy.  You’ve earned the label eccentric.
• By now your aware of what makes you happy and what makes you sad.  Do more of the first.
• Stop swearing.  It was freeing when you were young, but now just makes others feel sorry for you.
• Above all, on a daily basis be GRATEFUL, especially when your feeling sorry for yourself.  It’s a powerful word that’s taken me a lifetime to arrive at, and the most important word to use as often as you can.

John Shinavier, MA, RYT, Life Coach