To be ageless

Gone are the days of anti-aging. While the world once refused to age, a new mindset has taken over. Instead of being in denial about aging, people have taken a more proactive attitude, and that is to accept that time is a friend and not an enemy.

With this enlightening perspective, how, then, does one learn to age gracefully?

Accept the challenge, not defeat

Are you up to it? This isn't a war nor a race against time but with time. Are you still with me?

Picture aging as a friendly race where time is the course you must cover as the runner. The object of this race, though, is not to finish first but to run with time and continue to exude confidence and radiance.

Now, there are many ways to describe it, but I've chosen the term "smart aging" to define the ultimate goal — to be ageless. Yes, we all age. But the idea is to appear as though we've somehow defied the ravages of time.

Thus, we often see that beauty and wellness products flooding the market today that promise: Age-reversing — turning back the clock; Pro-aging — supporting and improving the body's natural process; Age-perfecting — not reversing, but enhancing; Age-delaying — slowing down the aging process; and Smart or Intelligent Aging — understanding the body and working with it to look beautiful at any age.

And yet, we should live in a society that values, appreciates and empowers older adults to live their best lives.

So, whether you are a senior or not, feeling old can hit you at any age.

The bad news? The aging process begins in your late 20s. At the cellular level, we start to age at around 25. Shocking as it may seem, the cellular turnover rate slows down at this point. Specifically, this is when the production of collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin — essential to keeping the skin firm, moisturized and supple — begins to decline.

The good news? This process can be delayed on one condition: Embracing a wellness lifestyle that supports good health habits.

The discovery

Remember the search for the Fountain of Youth by Ponce de León in the 1500s? This quest has captivated the human imagination for centuries.Do you find it the magnesium-rich waters of Florida or the island of Bimini in the Bahamas?

In Tibetan and Himalayan myths, such a spring exists.

And it turns out that the fountain of youth is inside of us.

There is a way to help build an environment that sustains youthfulness — but this state cannot be reached without a holistic approach to life.

Modern interpretations of 'agelessness'

To age smartly, you may choose to practice:

Wellness and self-care – Lifestyle choices that promote longevity through exercise, diet, and vitamin-mineral supplementation

Internal harmony – Habits that lead to peace of mind and reduce life stress through meditation, relaxation and mind-body techniques

Modern approaches – Turning to advancements in medical science, including stem cell therapy to rejuvenate cells

Natural regimens – The use of oxygen, sound and light therapy to support the body's natural healing mechanisms

More simply, you can also opt to:

Eat healthy – Add more fresh, organic greens to your diet. The more plant-based your meals, the better. Results: weight maintenance, glowing complexion, regular bowel movements.

Limit processed foods – Anything with preservatives, artificial coloring, or flavor enhancers isn't food your body needs. Go for whole foods. Cook from scratch when possible.

Exercise – Just keep moving. Whether walking, swimming, running or dancing — simply move. Aim for 30 minutes daily.

Hydrate – Make water your favorite beverage. The rest can follow in this order of preference: fresh (not canned) juices, tea, chocolate, coffee or wine.

Supplement – Consult your doctor for the proper vitamin and mineral supplements for your age. Consider IV vitamin drips at a certified clinic.

Moderation – No need to deprive yourself of life's pleasures. You can have a slice of cake, a bowl of halo-halo with ice cream, or a plateful of pasta. Enjoy, but don't overdo it. Follow the pace of your conscience.

Get enough quality sleep. – Late nights won't help as you grow older.

Level of calm – Try to maintain calm each day. When you do, stress won't disturb your inner peace. This, in turn, protects your immune system from illnesses.

Practice mindfulness – Remember, you are in control of your thoughts and emotions.

Let the love shine – Allow your heart to express itself. Share this positive feeling.

* * *

Healthy juicing:

Kale and Pineapple Juice

Chop 1 cup of kale and 1 cup of pineapple. Add a slice of ginger and turmeric. Juice all together, then drink up.

Summer tip

Save some pineapple juice for use as your summer facial splash. Add two ice cubes and mix.

Feel the tingling freshness. Rinse and pat dry after one minute.

* * *

Affirmation: "My heart radiates love."

* * *

Love and light.