The Magnificent Seven was one of my favourite movies. In part, because it was released back in 1960, the year I was born, but mostly because Yul Brynner was such a brilliant actor, whose brooding fearless presence made the film a huge hit. However, this blog is not about films. The reference is just a cunning way to introduce the concept of ageing better and discuss seven magnificent goals to ageing well. And here they are..
1. Have a purpose in life
The Japanese call it Ikigai; a reason to live, or a reason to get up every morning.
In the past, the reason could have been to bring up children or to go out to earn money to buy a house. As we move into a new phase of life, the purpose could be family, pets, travel, hobbies, a legacy or an unfulfilled bucket list. Purposes can change; what’s important is what motivates you to wake up in the morning.
Without purpose, we begin to slowly fade.
2. Be active
Activity is not just physical, make sure you are also working your mind. Old dogs CAN learn new tricks, whether that’s learning to cook, trying a new mindful sport like yoga, or learning a new language. Keeping up with technology as well is not just a great mental exercise, it will impress the kids! TikTok here we come.
3. Be part of the community
When we were growing up, we knew our neighbours and were surrounded by people. Today we are invariably less engaged, yet there’s a wealth of knowledge, support and fun on our doorstep. Let’s get back to borrowing sugar and gossiping over the garden fence. Walking to the local shops is not only good exercise, but an opportunity to meet a neighbour and catch up on news. One of the secrets to happiness is feeling part of a community that genuinely looks out for each other.
4. Eat in moderation
Of course, we put on weight when we consume more calories than we burn off. As our metabolism slows and we exercise less, we need fewer calories. Filling the plate with things you enjoy, as well as making half of it healthy things like veggies will give you more energy.
5. Sleep more
Sleeping keeps our body and mind healthy. We need eight hours, including deep and dream sleep. Sleeping well helps with memory retention, can reduce dementia and aids in weight loss. Good sleep needs preparation, so make sure the bedroom is conducive to uninterrupted sleep, remove gadgets and blue lights, and reduce the ambient temperature.
6. Reduce stress
Continuous stress is not good for our health. The mind needs time off, and it can get this best through meditation and yoga. During meditation, you focus your attention and eliminate the stream of jumbled thoughts that may be crowding your mind and causing stress. During the day, stop to gaze out of the window and watch the wind or rain, or be amazed at the radiance of the sunrise or sunset.
7. Surround yourself with like-minded people
Friends can reinforce our best and worst habits. There’s no difference as we get older, so surround yourself with good friends who are active, sociable and community-minded. Of course, make sure you can have a belly laugh with them too.
The Magnificent Seven succeed not just because of their individual strengths, but also their teamwork. My Magnificent Seven are equally interconnected – a purpose in life could be about getting fitter; practising meditation, improving sleep, and most importantly being part of a community. And this is where autum can help you!
To help us make Britain one million biological years younger take our autum Lifescore calculator to determine your biological age and use our autum app on Android or IOS to help improve your biological age today!
A passionate entrepreneur who has spent years calculating life risks and has set up two successful innovative businesses. He believes with the right motivation and support we can extend healthy life. This is now his calling and has found a great team to make it happen.
