Secrets to Staying Young

Aren't we always looking for the magic product--the Fountain of Youth? In the March 2009 issue of Health Magazine (health.com) scientists studying aging share some of their latest research.
One tip they list is to stop eating so much. Cutting calories and exercising can lead to weight loss and also lowered production of T3, a thyroid hormone that can slow the aging process.
Another tip is to use your brain. We've heard this before; do crossword puzzles or Sudoka. Even taking a new route to work can wake up brain cells.
Drink more wine. You've probably heard this one too. Red wine and grape juice contain resveratrol, a compound that seems to slow aging. Drinking red wine in moderation will benefit your heart.
Lose the belly fat. Scientists tracking people for 30 years have found that having a big belly can raise your risk of dementia.
They also tell us to eat more plants. People living the longest tend to eat less meat and more plant foods.
Get your zzzz's. Seven hours a night will help your body repair damage from stress and sun.
Straighten up. (a hard one for most of us to remember) Rounded, hunched shoulders make you look old. Stand tall!

For more tips and info check out the article in the Health Guide section of Health magazine.

Happiness is a Decision

These words from Micheal J. Fox in the April issue of Good Housekeeping Magazine. You only have to read a few pages to be greatly inspired by his story. It would be easy to understand if he was bitter or depressed or angry but he isn't. He says he has much to be grateful for. He really appreciates the love his wife and family give him. I think he is one incredible guy!

It really makes me want to look around at what I have to be grateful for. In the ordinary daily grind that can get lost. I used to keep a gratitude journal but that kind of went by the wayside. I should blow the dust off and start to use it again. There is too much goodness in my life not to appreciate it and thank God for it.

Micheal J. Fox also goes on to say that even with his Parkinson's, he asks how he can be of service to others. He decided to use his star power to start a foundation to help others with his disease. He has testified at Congressional hearings about Parkinson's being underfunded. Seems like we could all ask, "How can I be of service to others?" and make a difference even in a small way.

Throughout all of this his wife Tracy has been there by his side. He also talks about having faith in a higher power. I think these two are the most important. Having someone to love and share the good and the bad. Knowing that God has a plan for us and he is with us through the good and bad too.

Micheal J. Fox has a tv special coming out on April 23 on ABC . He travels the world talking to people who have overcome great obstacles to live happy lives. It's called "Adventures of an Incurable Optimist". It sounds like a very interesting and hopeful show!

Dream It, Do It

Spend more time focused upon your dream than upon the reality.

The reality gives birth to the dream --

but the dream is where you are wanting to put your attention.

Esther Hicks & Abraham

Words to Live By

ANYWAY

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies. Succeed anyway. If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway.
What you spend years building, someone may try to destroy overnight. Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow. Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough. Do it anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God.
It was never between you and them, anyway. - Anonymous

This seems like a great list of easy things to do to make life better for all!