WHAT IS AGEING
Growing old is no more than a bad habit which a busy man has no time to form. Andre Maurois
Ageing or aging is the process of becoming older. The term refers ….. This theory, which introduced a new definition of ageing, has facilitated the conceptualisation of why and how ageing occurs at the evolutionary, … (Wikipedia). In the broader sense, ageing can refer to single cells within an organism which have ceased dividing (cellular senescence). Word AGE-ING depicts that Ageing is a continuous process.
It is important to note the difference between Geriatrics and Aged. Geriatrics relates to the old people aged 60 years and above especially with regard to advance certain benefits to the people for their care under social programs. Most of the workers agree that ageing starts immediately after the age of 30 and this process goes on till the age of 70. After this the individual is labelled as Aged. But this is not fixed. Declaring a person as Aged depends upon the signs and the function of the body which can be before or after the age of 70. An individual rather knows better whether he is ageing and needs the advice so as not to become raged or he is aged and needs active intervention of an Age Management specialist so as not to hasten towards graveyard.
The causes of ageing are uncertain. The popular theories are that due to certain reasons DNA is damaged and is accumulated within the cells or there is methylation of DNA within the cells. These changes inhibit cellular function and cause cellular death, thus ageing.
HORMONES - EFFECTS - USES
There are four hormones which determine a human’s happiness –
1. Endorphins,
2. Dopamine,
3. Serotonin,
4. Oxytocin.
It is important we understand these hormones, as we need all four of them to stay happy.
Endorphins
- When we exercise, the body releases Endorphins. This hormone helps the body cope with the pain of exercising. We then enjoy exercising because these Endorphins will make us happy.
- Laughter is another good way of generating Endorphins.
- We need to spend 30 minutes exercising every day, read or watch funny stuff to get our day’s dose of Endorphins.
Dopamine
- In our journey of life, we accomplish many little and big tasks, it releases various levels of Dopamine.
- When we get appreciated for our work at the office or at home, we feel accomplished and good, that is because it releases Dopamine.
This also explains why most housewives are unhappy since they rarely get acknowledged or appreciated for their work. Once, we join work, we buy a car, a house, the latest gadgets, a new house so forth. In each instance, it releases Dopamine and we become happy.
Now, do we realize why we become happy when we shop?
Serotonin
- Serotonin is released when we act in a way that benefits others.
- When we transcend ourselves and give back to others or to nature or to the society, it releases Serotonin.
- Even, providing useful information on the internet like writing information blogs, answering peoples questions on Quora or Facebook groups will generate Serotonin. That is because we will use our precious time to help other people via our answers or articles.
Oxytocin
- Oxytocin is released when we become close to other human beings.
- When we hug our friends or family Oxytocin is released.
- The “Jadoo Ki Jhappi” from Munnabhai does really work.
- Similarly, when we shake hands or put our arms around someone’s shoulders, various amounts of Oxytocin is released.
Summary:
- Exercise every day to get Endorphins.
- Accomplish little goals and get Dopamine.
- Be nice to others to get Serotonin.
- Hug our kids, friends, and families to get Oxytocin.
When we are happy, we can deal with our challenges and problems better.
Location
Indian Association of Age Management
c/o Naraina Medical Centre
NH-1, Community Centre, C-Block
Naraina Vihar, New Delhi 110028