04.08.2015 ►JVB NJ ►Inspiration | Vol 22 - News & Upcoming Programs

THE ART OF ENJOYING OLD AGE

Old age should not be feared as painful but viewed as a reward. It is a bouquet of expression, a blessing of solitude, a time for relaxation, and a prospect of a new dawn of bliss. It is not a period of loneliness or the sad final chapter but a new sunrise with graceful and golden times ahead.

There are three stages of life - childhood, adulthood, and old age. Old age is considered the period after age 70. Usually a person sails with ease through the first two phases of life but tends to be apprehensive about the old age. It need not be so! Old age is the time to relive and build upon past experiences gained through ups and downs, success and failures, triumphs and defeats, trials and errors.There is no reason why this segment of life cannot be made a fruitful and happy period as the first two stages. But for old age to be fulfilling, one must cultivate the right perspective, appropriate attitude, and right habits.

Train your tongue

Food is essential for existence as is the source of energy that sustains various bodily functions. However poor eating habits and excessive food intake can hamper the ability to live a long and healthy life. Maintaining a balanced diet and keeping a gap between meals facilitates digestion.

Control your emotions

The next major move for dignity in old age is gaining control over intense emotions. Although it is important to pacify emotions at every juncture in life, it becomes crucial for the elderly. Ageing has a tendency to make most people sensitive and irritable. Their moodiness can distress not only those around them but also themselves. People must learn to control their emotions and maintain equanimity from the very beginning.

Choose your language

Old people are experienced and wise. They can provide valuable guidance by communicating their knowledge to others. Speech, as we know, is the most common form of communication, but as we age our method and manner of speaking is likely to change. There are two ways of communicating - injunction and suggestion. Everyone, specially the aged, should refrain from the former, as it is often offensive and can antagonize.

Cultivate sanskars in next generation

Practice meditation (Preksha Dhayana)

Old age does not mean that the need for continuing development or learning has ended! Instead, it is the time to meditate, or practice preksha, which uplifts one’s spirit and directs the energy towards spiritual growth.These practices can lead to a peaceful, productive and contented period during old age.