Satya celebrated her 50^th birthday just a week ago. She keeps herself fit and is very mindful about what she eats. She has no illusions about living for ever. She is smart enough to know that old age cannot be staved off indefinitely but she wants to postpone the erosion of time as much as she can. She wants to know what she can do to remain agile, supple, and in good physical and mental shape.

As Lexi Starling said, ‘Age is only a number”. Why is it that some people seem to age more gracefully than others? It is because they have learnt the secrets of savouring life and actively pursue healthy practices.

Stay engaged in life

Isolation and loneliness are the adversaries of good health. Stay engaged in life without being interfering or domineering. It is essential to be contented and happy. Keep your heart and mind open to new experiences and new friendships. Befriend and nurture people who have different interests. Being with people who are passionate about what they do, will keep the mechanisms of the mind well oiled and rust-free.

Entertain people and bring people together. Join a club or a volunteer group. Make yourself indispensable. You should be the one people think of when things need to get done. Keep in touch with old classmates. The unconditional friendships of our youth provide irreplaceable comfort and camaraderie

You may have spent the better part of your life putting your dreams on hold because your husband or children were the first priority. Now is the time to pursue your passions. Set realistic yet challenging goals and strive to accomplish them.

Bitterness against events or people is like a worm that silently eats away at the soul. It is debilitating and enervating. Count your blessings and see the number of things you have to be grateful for. Most importantly, forgive and forget. The balm of forgiveness will smooth the wrinkles of advancing age.