HOPE AND BELIEF are the first steps in the Meta-Age journey to achieve health in mind, body, and spirit. To create a healthier life, countering irrelevance, chronic ageing, and low self-esteem can hinder sexual fulfilment and overall vitality. Meta-Age redefines ageing and extends the vitality of midlife and beyond by adhering to three core principles—coherence, purpose, and significance:
COHERENCE: ALIGNING LIFE’S PATH
Midlife is a stage when life starts to make more sense. Finding coherence means discovering a movement, an attitude, or a belief that permeates who you become. Dan Sullivan, Founder and President of The Strategic Coach Inc., emphasises, “One of the great advantages of midlife is that it provides a clearer sense of who you are and what you truly value. It is the time to align your actions with your beliefs and create a more coherent life path.”
PURPOSE: PRIORITISING SELF-CARE
After spending much of life doing things for others, midlife is a time to focus on personal health and well-being. Brené Brown, a renowned researcher and author, states, “You cannot serve from an empty vessel. It’s crucial to prioritise your well-being and engage in activities that nourish your body and mind to lead a fulfilling life.” This period emphasises the importance of engaging in lifestyles that benefit long-term health.
SIGNIFICANCE: ENRICHING LIFE THROUGH VALUES
Significance is defined before it is achieved, driven by personal values that cannot be purchased. Every Meta-Ager aspires to significance—’Move your body and live your best life.’ In his book “Man’s Search for Meaning,” Viktor Frankl highlights this quest for significance: “Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose. Physical and mental well-being are crucial for finding significance in life.”
PHYSIOLOGICAL CHANGES IN META-AGE
Meta-Age represents a phase where the ageing process is slowed, allowing individuals to maintain midlife characteristics longer. Here are the critical differences between Meta-Age and traditional ageing:
Muscle Mass and Strength: In Meta-Age, sarcopenia is slowed, allowing individuals to maintain muscle function through regular physical activity.
Bone Density: While bone density decreases, especially in post-menopausal women, this decline is mitigated by diet and weight-bearing exercise in Meta-Agers.
Joint Health: Joint stiffness and pain are standard but are managed effectively by Meta-Agers through daily activities.
Cardiovascular Health: Meta-Agers manage cardiovascular health risks with an active lifestyle and healthy habits.
Metabolic Changes: Metabolic rate slows with age, but Meta-Agers effectively manage weight and blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome.
Neurological and Cognitive Function: Cognitive function remains stable, with only minor memory lapses or slower processing speeds.
Sensory Functions: Vision and hearing decline gradually, but issues are managed effectively.
Physical Activity and Mobility: Meta-Agers engage in 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity weekly, maintaining body fat percentage and overall fitness.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, particularly during menopause, affect health but are managed effectively through lifestyle adjustments in Meta-Agers.
HARNESSING THE POWER OF META-AGE
While everyone experiences a decline in physical function, these changes are generally less pronounced in Meta-Agers. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and proactive healthcare, is crucial to improving quality of life and physical function, slowing ageing, and extending midlife benefits. To harness the power of Meta-Age:
• Internalise Core Values: Embrace innovation, adaptability, and continuous learning principles.
• Set Clear Goals: Define specific, achievable goals aligned with your personal and professional aspirations.
• Stay Committed: Cultivate a solid commitment to your goals and maintain resilience in facing challenges.
• Seek Inspiration: Regularly engage with Meta-Age literature and community to stay motivated and inspired.
• Act with Integrity: Ensure your actions reflect your values and beliefs, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
• Community Engagement: Connect with like-minded individuals to share experiences, gain support, and collaborate.
By integrating these principles, Meta-Age can significantly impact personal and professional development, leveraging the power of hope and belief to achieve success through coherence, purpose, and significance. As Mahatma Gandhi said: “It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver. With hope and belief, you can achieve and maintain true health.” This quote encapsulates the essence of Meta-Age.
