It has long been known that there is a relationship between mind and body. The Romans had a saying Mens Sana in Corpore Sano, which is generally translated as A Sound Mind in A Healthy Body.
It has long been known that there is a relationship between mind and body. The Romans had a saying Mens Sana in Corpore Sano, which is generally translated as A Sound Mind in A Healthy Body. In fact, the original context of the phrase was a line in a poem listing things that were desirable in life (as I've just read on Wikipedia) and that, in turn, is derived from an aphorism from early Greek Philosopher Thales. So, originally it did not mean what it has come to mean, which is that a healthy body is a prerequisite for a sound mind.
Equally, the reverse - the influence of the mind on the body - is well documented.
And here is another piece of evidence of that, with particular reference to older people. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, carried out by Becca Levy of Yale School of Public Health, has found a correspondence between positive age stereotypes and recovery from disability, whether serious or milder. If the subjects had a positive view of ageing and older people they were more likely to recover, or at least to have a better recovery.
One of the factors that Professor Levy thought might have an influence on people's ability to bounce back from physical set-back was when the subjects had a belief that older people could still be strong. This might have been one of the things which lead them to work hard at their rehab, and to participate in exercise programmes which would help their improvement.
And the relevance to SGSC in particular? We think that it is extremely important to stay strong as you age, amongst other things to avoid the frailty that often accompanies ageing. As well, of course, as the continuing ability to participate in the demanding sports that we all love. And if you read the stories here, and look at the videos of the Silver Greys we have been lucky enough to come across, you will have no difficulty having that
positive view of ageing, of knowing that you can maintain strength and fitness, of what life can continue to be like after 50 - which will certainly help you to believe that all the work that you (have to) put in to stay strong will be worthwhile, will have the desired result.