Age is just a number

The ageing process is not only about keeping your body healthy, it’s about your mind too. So says Annie Coetzee, motivational speaker, life coach and author of It’s Not Just All in Your Mind.

According to experts, an estimate of 90 percent of adult illnesses are due to the ageing process. These include arthritis, cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and mood and sleep disorders.

“It’s not simply about living longer; it’s about living better,” says Peter Jordan, Principal Officer of Fedhealth.

“The reality is that we are in fact living longer,” says Dr John Beard, the director of the Department of Ageing and Life Course at the World Health Organisation. “The biggest growth is happening in less developed countries like South Africa.”

Feelings and emotions we express have a direct impact on the body and the mind. A feeling is a full body experience. Our perceptions, thoughts, beliefs and past experiences, as well as the chemical workings of our body. This is based on a unique combination of feelings which are chemicals that help or hinder us.”

When you are spiritually and emotionally fit, you feel healthy and energetic, adds Coetzee.

“Smiling is also the first step to laughing more, so why not try it?” says Jordan. “A positive mind set can literally “fake happiness”. Small children laugh 300 to 400 times a day on average, while adults laugh less than 15. One way to boost your laughter factor is to fake happiness. The simple act of putting a smile on your face when you speak, particularly on the phone, gives a youthful lift to your voice.”