On Ageing: Are You an Apple or a Pear?

A lot may think that the age issue is more that just a count or a number. And they are correct. Nowadays, we not only talk about ageing as a process by which one's faculties start to decline. We talk of ageing as something more positive if we add the simple, yet challenging word "healthy". So now, we talk of "healthy aging". And that gives us a more brilliant outlook than just the dreaded state of having chronic diseases and wrinkled bodies.

With ageing comes a lot of physiological changes, inevitable and natural. Metabolic processes are slowed down and adherence to old bad nutritional habits can have major impact on overall health. Weight gain, unfortunately, has been one of the challenges faced by people as they age. Imagine all those fat deposits on the unwanted areas in your body. People with apple shape bodies have those fats concentrated on their abdomen. On the other hand, pear shape bodies have fats distributed more on the hip and thigh region. Between the two, "apples" are more at risk for cardiovascular events as evidenced by scientific studies.

Whether you're an apple or a pear, these simple tips will get you right back on tract to healthful living and healthy ageing.

1. Make it a habit to do even simple exercises a day to maintain good circulation.

2. Eat natural, organic food. Remember these watchwords in nutrition: variety, balance and moderation.

3. Sleep. And quality time matters. That should make you feel relaxed and refreshed.

4. Have fun! Do the things you love most, be it in the kitchen, the garden or in any part of your home.

5. Enjoy and live in God's grace. That will give you spiritual peace.