Aging is a natural
process of getting old. There are theories of aging:
The free radical
theory of aging
This theory is based on the damage of cells
due to cumulative free radicals, leading to disease and, ultimately, death.
Free radicals are molecules within the human
cells. Due to regular oxidation (e.g. breathing), and other environmental
factors (e.g. tobacco smoke), these molecules become damaged and unstable, and
begin to affect other healthy cells close by, creating many more similar
unstable free radicals, and thus initiating a chain reaction of cell damage by
free radicals.
Damaged cells lead to disease and ultimate
death.
This theory implies that antioxidants, such as
vitamins A, C, and E, which reduce the formation of free radicals, not only
slow down the aging process, but also prevent disease.
The genetic theory of
aging
This theory is based on the pre-programming of
human genes to induce aging and death—your Creator ensures that you will not be
immortal. Therefore, aging is not just the consequence of wear and tear over
the years. The fact of the matter is that you are not meant to live forever.
Other than disease and other environmental
factors, there is no great variation in the lifespan of humans, and this may partially
explain the role of genes in aging.
The hormone theory of
aging
This theory is based on the gradual changes in
the human body due to the decline and degeneration of the endocrine system,
which is responsible for producing hormones to regulate many body functions and
processes. Changes in the human hormone production, such as menopause, account
for the changes responsible for aging.
There is no scientific evidence that hormone
replacement will in fact increase human lifespan. So, think twice before you
decide on a hormone replacement therapy.
The immunity theory of
aging
This theory is based on the failure of the
immune system to give adequate protection against contaminants, viruses, and
stress, among other agents contributing to a weakened or compromised immune
system.
This theory attests to the important role of
the immune system in longevity health and overall wellness.
The rate of living
theory of aging
This theory is based on the rate of breathing:
faster oxygen metabolism leads to a shorter lifespan. In the animal kingdom,
rodents, with the fastest heartbeats have the shortest lifespan, while
tortoises with the slowest breaths live the longest.
This theory vindicates that breathing right is
one of the key factors in longevity in humans. Learning to breathe right is
critical to remaining younger and healthier for longer.
To sum up, the human aging process is best
explained not by one single theory but by a combination of these theories.The bottom line: get the wisdom to live the
rest of your life as if everything is a miracle, if you just don’t die!
You Just Don’t Die!
The Consciousness Of Living To 100 And
Beyond
To live
well as if everything is a miracle, you need consciousness of the body, the
mind, and the soul. If you just don’t die, you need this consciousness to face
all your life changes and challenges.
This
book is not just about extending your lifespan but also about the art of living
well with self and others, as well as in the world around you.
Stephen Lau
Copyright© by Stephen Lau
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