Positive attitude helps slow aging process

    The information, though not earth shattering, was logical and helpful to anyone who wishes to live healthfully and gracefully as long as possible. Aging happens from both the inside out and the outside in, and that I believe is the secret. There are some things you can do about the changes inside your body as your cells lose their resilience and ability to repair damage. You can and should employ the tried and true method of eating less and being more active, which will slow the aging process, but the real key is your attitude about life. I have met people who seem to have it all but are constant complainers. Others I’ve known have risen to greatness, inspiring people everywhere as they face and tackle a crippling disease or paralyzing accident.
    Today’s life expectancy is 75 for men and 80 for women, and that could well be extended with good healthful habits. It starts with attitude, though. A can-do, thankful perspective is the best start to any day. Even while we cope with this economic recession, don’t be thrown off your positive attitude. The one thing we can all take advantage of is knowledge. It’s free in our libraries and on the Internet. The best way to make sure your mind stays sharp is to challenge yourself. Learn a foreign language, teach yourself a new hobby, learn, learn, learn. Then teach someone else something.  
    It’s a fact that the best way to retain information is to teach it to someone else. The degree to which you can communicate your own knowledge indicates how well you have learned it. Who can you teach? Volunteer at a local YMCA, Boys and Girls Club or a senior center. There are lots of people out there who want to learn, and you have something to offer them. Doing for others also helps to keep your mind off whatever might be ailing you, giving you the added benefit of stress reduction.
    I leave you with this thought about the best way to have a great attitude and live life to the fullest and healthiest, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less.”
    I wish a happy, healthy Thanksgiving to you all.

    Jeanine Achin is the executive director of the Newman YMCA in Seekonk. She holds numerous national fitness certifications. Contact her at (508) 336-7103 or jachin@gpymca.org.