Are We Ageing Ourselves with Our Words?

Embrace Vitality and Forget About Counting Candles!

As a former healthcare pro, global make-up artist, and founder of the Attracta Beauty Awards, I've dedicated decades to helping individuals shine with beauty from both within and without. Throughout my journey, I've interviewed respected beauty and medical experts to share the latest insights on health and wellness. However, I often ponder this question: Are our thoughts and language actually causing us to age?

Are We Ageing Ourselves with Our Thoughts and Words?

Our fixation on chronological age—those birthday candles we tally—might be hindering us. Throughout my career in health and beauty, I've witnessed how language influences our mindset. Labeling ourselves as "old" based on a number can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. As we approach the current science, it’s essential to understand that biological age—the state of our cellular function—is the true indicator of our "age." Instead of obsessing over years, let’s reframe ageing as a process filled with vitality.

Here are four straightforward, scientifically-supported practices to enhance your wellness and maintain an optimal biological age—no gadgets required.

1. Nourish with Plants and Proteins

What you consume significantly impacts your health and cellular biology. Research indicates that Mediterranean-style diets, abundant in vegetables, fruits, nuts, healthy oils, and proteins, can slow biological aging. Nutritionists recommend aiming for 5-7 servings of colorful plants daily. This isn’t merely food; it’s the fuel your cells need to thrive.

2. Move with Joy

Movement is essential for youthfulness—no gym membership needed! Simple daily activities, like brisk walking or dancing, can reduce biological age. Personally, I enjoy a 30-minute evening stroll, feeling the breeze and clearing my mind. Science supports 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly, such as yoga or gardening, to enhance cellular health. Find movements that bring you joy and make them part of your daily routine.

3. Sleep Deeply

Reflecting on my first interview with FRANK Magazine back in 1998, I was quoted saying, “A good night’s sleep is just as beneficial for the skin as any cosmetic product.” I stand by that assertion today, and recent findings from longevity experts confirm it—sleep acts as your body’s natural repair shop. Modern research links poor sleep to accelerated biological ageing, while 7-9 hours of quality rest rejuvenates cells. Personally, I turn off Wi-Fi and screens an hour before bed to unwind, creating a serene environment that promotes deep sleep. Establish a calming pre-sleep routine, dim the lights, avoid late caffeine, and keep your room cool for a natural reset.

4. Disconnect from Scrolling and Breathe Deeply

Everyone knows that stress accelerates ageing, but mindful deep breathing and meditation can counteract these effects by activating the vagus nerve and engaging the calming parasympathetic nervous system. I dedicate 5-10 minutes during the day to deep breathing, helping me connect with my body and thoughts, allowing stress to dissipate. Start small: 5 minutes of mindful breathing or a peaceful, slow walk in nature can rejuvenate your mind and body. And remember to leave your phone at home!

Redefine Ageing

In my talks and events, I always emphasise that our words hold power. Stop saying “I’m too old” and start saying “I’m thriving.”

These four simple practices listed, eating healthily, moving joyfully, sleeping deeply, and breathing mindfully, are natural, achievable, and supported by modern science. They require little investment but yield significant results, keeping your biological age vibrant. It’s time to shift focus away from the language of years and embrace vitality, as that’s what genuinely reflects our health in our cells, thoughts, and actions.