Publisher’s Letter | How Do You Feel About Aging?

In college, I remember hearing that actress Fran Drescher had been hypnotized to forget her age so that she would not associate with the number of her age. I never really understood how that worked because if you know the year you were born, you can do the math…anyhow, the concept intrigued me. From that moment forward, I understood that aging is a just number; it’s not a measurement of how vital, energetic and active life can be. I committed to aging as well as I could.

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Research says that feeling younger and ignoring negative beliefs about aging can reduce anxiety and depression and boost overall well-being. The researchers were surprised by how much day-to-day mental health fluctuations are influenced by our thoughts about aging.

On days when participants felt younger than their actual age, they reported fewer depressive symptoms and higher levels of positive mood. And when they felt older, there were increased depressive symptoms and lower well-being, regardless of actual age. So you really can THINK yourself younger. We also know that optimism can enhance immune response as well.

We are again excited to share our ICONIC LIFE Longevity issue with you—it’s packed with tips, ideas and perspectives that can contribute to living longer and living better…just in time for the New Year.

Longevity could be considered one of life’s greatest luxuries, but in fact, it’s essential, and without it, we have nothing. Health is wealth, and that is made up of a lifetime of decisions, habits and a little help from Mother Nature.

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In addition to the topics in this issue, here are three tiny tips that can make a difference:

• Never say you are old or that you’re too old for something.
• Do things that spark joy and make you feel vibrant—learn a new skill, stay in motion or connect with others who are younger or who have a youthful mindset.
• Focus on making it happen every day. Celebrate small achievements that reinforce your sense of vitality and capability, no matter your age.

Every day is a new opportunity to rewrite the script and add meaning to your days, and I wish you a lifetime of health, happiness and success.

Happy New Year!