Live Young and long

 

Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science: Unveiling the Secrets to a Long and Youthful Life

For centuries, Eastern practices like Yoga and Ayurveda have advocated for specific lifestyle choices to promote longevity and vitality. Now, science is starting to catch up, validating what these ancient traditions have known for millennia. Let's explore these powerful practices and how they can be incorporated into your life.

1. Move Your Body, Challenge Your Limits:

Professor David Sinclair of Harvard Medical School emphasizes the importance of exercise. He suggests aiming for at least three sessions a week that push you to breathlessness. This temporary oxygen deprivation acts as a stressor, triggering positive adaptations in your body. It promotes muscle building, improves blood flow, and releases chemicals that combat aging.

Click here to see Prof David `s Video

Interestingly, ancient yogis practiced a breathing technique called "bahya kumbhaka," which involves holding the breath after exhaling. This technique, similar to the popular Wim Hof Method, creates a similar temporary oxygen deprivation, stimulating the body's rejuvenation processes.

 Click here for Wim Hoff `s guided method 

2. Embrace Intermittent Fasting:

Another ancient wisdom confirmed by science is the power of intermittent fasting. Professor Sinclair recommends limiting your eating window to 6 hours, ideally aiming for a late breakfast and early dinner. This extended fasting period activates the body's natural defenses against aging.

The lack of food triggers a process called autophagy, where your body recycles old, damaged proteins. Additionally, specific genes are activated during fasting periods, promoting a deep cellular cleanse with anti-aging effects.

Getting Started with Intermittent Fasting:

Curbing hunger pangs can be tough initially. Consider drinking water or herbal tea to suppress cravings. If needed, a small portion of nuts can provide protein and manage hunger. Aim for a fasting window of 16-20 hours to significantly lower blood sugar levels. During this time, your liver learns to compensate by generating its own sugar (gluconeogenesis), further reducing hunger pangs.

3. The Power of Plant-Based Stressors:

Professor Sinclair advises focusing on "stressed" foods. This doesn't mean subjecting your food to physical stress, but rather choosing produce grown organically and exposed to natural elements. These plants, in their fight for survival, develop powerful antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.

4. Rethinking Antioxidants:

While antioxidants are often touted for their anti-aging benefits, Professor Sinclair suggests they might be overhyped. Focus on the practices mentioned above for a more holistic approach to longevity.

5. Foods to Minimize:

Sugar, even fruit sugar, can accelerate aging. Consider opting for whole fruits instead of processed sugars. Lean protein sources like vegetables are better than red meat. Dairy and alcohol consumption should also be limited.

Ancient Ayurvedic Wisdom on Eating Habits:

Interestingly, the ancient Indian system of Ayurveda aligns with some aspects of intermittent fasting. Ayurveda emphasizes mindful eating and suggests a correlation between meal frequency and overall well-being. Here's a traditional proverb:

• "Once a Yogi (seeker of enlightenment), Twice a Bhogi (one who enjoys life), Thrice a Rogi (ill or ailing person)"

This proverb suggests that eating once a day might be suitable for those on a highly spiritual path, while twice a day is considered appropriate for most people. Eating three times a day or more, according to Ayurveda, could potentially lead to health issues.

It's important to note that this is a traditional saying, and individual needs can vary. Consulting with a healthcare professional or Ayurvedic practitioner is crucial before making drastic changes to your diet.

By incorporating these practices, you can create a powerful synergy between ancient wisdom and modern science, paving the way for a long and healthy life. Remember, consistency is key. Start slowly, find what works best for you, and embark on your journey towards a vibrant and youthful future!