Who wants to live longer, healthier, happier?
Hello!
I am 7 months into a program called Impact Accelerator. It is a community of entrepreneurs, led by Selena Soo and her team, who are looking to make a big impact on the world. The program teaches ways to build PARTNERSHIPS, get PUBLICITY, and PROMOTE offerings. Selena believes that working the P's is the best way to get your brilliance out into the world. I have been working very hard at the publicity end of things and have gotten some nice "wins". I just answered a journalist's request about the things I think are important to living a long and healthy life. Since it has always been my goal to help you live healthier lives and do the things you love, I thought I would share my thoughts.
As a physical therapist for more than 20 years, treating orthopedic injuries of adults of all ages, I think I have great insight into what contributes to longevity and how I might play a role. Based on what I have witnessed throughout my career, my framework for treatment is: MOVE, BREATHE, CONNECT.
MOVE:
People seek me out because they have pain due to repetitive stress injuries or traumatic events, such as hip fractures. The findings of a musculoskeletal exam are a lack of strength, flexibility, mobility, and balance. Studies show that falls are the top cause of injury and injury-related deaths over the age of 65 (think Ivana Trump). For those who fall and break a hip, the 1-year mortality rate is 21%. It has also been proven that the ability to get off the floor is a strong predictor of all-cause mortality. All this data proves regular exercise is necessary for longevity.
Since 51.8% of U.S. adults have at least 1 chronic condition, it is not uncommon for me to have patients who suffer from heart disease, cancer, or diabetes. One of the major risk factors for chronic diseases is a lack of regular exercise. Again, movement is needed for longevity!
BREATHE:
Another factor that is common in my patients is chronic stress. Stress drives inflammation which impacts pain and is also a risk factor in chronic conditions. We also can’t deny the mental health data around the effect of the pandemic. Stress will interfere with longevity. Education on stress and helping people build resilience is key. Recognizing this, I completed my 200-hour yoga instructor certification in 2016. I felt I could have a much greater impact on improving overall health if I layered in the principles of yoga. Meditation, pranayama, and asana have all been well documented in their ability to reduce stress and inflammation.
CONNECT:
My clients who are in pain, often don’t participate in the activities that they enjoy. They withdraw from social activities, stop hobbies, and reduce, or eliminate physical activity. This isolation can drive pain. It is also well documented how loneliness can affect physical and mental health. Studies have shown that loneliness can increase your risk of death by 26%, is worse than obesity, can put people at greater risk for cognitive decline and dementia, etc. Staying socially connected is imperative to longevity. I often coach patients on how to stay connected to the things they love to do. We might have to modify them or work on mindset, but I believe these conversations are crucial.
In summary: exercising regularly, managing your stress, and staying connected socially are three great ways to live a long and healthy life! Questions? Need help? Have a loved one that could use my help? Reach out!