Stay young.... think young.

Want to stave off ailments of old age? Then try thinking young

By FIONA MACRAE
Last updated at 1:05 AM on 30th December 2010

Research also shows that older mothers tend to age more slowly than those who give birth in their 20s. While this may be partly due to having the money and know-how to look after themselves, they may also benefit from forming friendships with younger women at the school gates.

Dr Langer, a psychologist, said: ‘Suddenly the older mother’s world is surrounded by younger cues, including younger mothers and their young children.

‘The conversations an older mother may have about her body may be more similar to a younger mother who has just had a child than with another woman her own age who is lamenting her body “breaking down”.’

Similarly, someone with a young spouse may think and act young, to the benefit of their body.

Research also shows that wearing a uniform to work can slow down ageing – perhaps because it prevents more elderly staff from dressing according to their age.

Even prostate cancer and heart disease may be influenced by the mind, with studies finding they are more prevalent in men who are prematurely aged by going bald early.

Dr Langer suggests that simply thinking young can do the power of good. She advised people not to dwell on the ageing process, adding: ‘Don’t buy the mind-set in the first place, then you won’t be vulnerable to it. 

‘I think we have far more control over our health and wellbeing than most of us realise.’ 

Cary Cooper, professor of psychology and health at Lancaster University, described the findings as ‘common sense’. 

He added that youthful thinkers tend to exercise their bodies and brains more, boosting physical and psychological health.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-1342563/Want-stave-ailments-old-age-Then-try-thinking-young.html#ixzz19bdSWsyt