Longevity Game Changer: Your Mind

We all hear the terms “mindset” and “mindfulness” frequently. 

Sometimes, it's easy to dismiss them, not fully tuning into what they mean. 

You might even wonder—does mindfulness mean meditation? What do I need to do to be mindful?

If you think of the opposite of mindfulness, it’s mindlessness—going through life on autopilot, assuming you already know something and not paying attention. 

Mindfulness, at its core, is simply being present and aware. 

And awareness is the most important factor in making meaningful changes. When you’re mindful, you have more energy, more capacity, and more control over your actions.

One of my favorite quotes from Arianna Huffington sums it up beautifully:

“Where we put our attention determines the quality of our lives.

It determines what we do. 

It determines everything.”

 So, what if simply changing the way you think about your body, your actions, and your potential could dramatically improve your health? 

Science says it can. Dr. Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychologist known as the "mother of mindfulness," has spent decades proving that our mindset is a powerful force for health and longevity.

Dr. Langer’s groundbreaking studies demonstrate that the way we perceive our bodies and behaviors directly impacts our physical health. Mindset really does shape reality. 

Here are some of her most compelling findings:

1. The Counterclockwise Study: 

Elderly men were immersed in an environment designed to mimic their younger years. For one week, they lived, spoke, and engaged in activities as if they were 20 years younger.

So if they were 60, they were immersing themselves in life at 40.  They talked like they were 40.  They acted like they were 40.  They did the same kinds of activities they did when they were 40. They weren't talking about “when they were 40” - they were living life like they were 40 again.

So what happened? 

After one week, the results were astonishing. They showed improved vision, strength, posture, and cognitive function—just from mentally living as though they were 20 years younger.

2. The Hotel Housekeeper's Study:

This study centered on women who were working in housekeeping at a hotel.  They had long work days, and would get home in the evening exhausted, feeling like another day went by where they did not have time to exercise.

However, when it was pointed out that their daily job was active, that they were always moving, that really everyday for them was a day of movement and exercise, things changed.

Housekeepers who were told that their daily work was physically beneficial—without changing their routines—experienced lower blood pressure, weight loss, and improved health. Their perception of movement as exercise changed their physiological response.

3. The Uniform Study:

I can remember my Mother saying at a certain age … “oh I can’t wear that type of thing anymore” … or “I need to wear my hair short now” … and I catch myself thinking that way every so often as well.

So apparently, people who wear the same work uniform daily for their careers may fare better in health and aging because they are less exposed to visual age-related cues that influence how they perceive themselves.

4. The Nursing Home Plant Study:

Residents who were given control over a small plant and daily decisions lived longer and healthier lives than those without a sense of personal control.

I often think about this in relation to my aunt, who had Parkinson’s and whom I cared for. I wanted to ease her burdens, but looking back, I wonder if taking over too many responsibilities may have taken away a sense of autonomy that was vital to her well-being.

These studies reveal a fundamental truth: How we think about ourselves directly affects our physical well-being.

So let's think about ways we can apply this learning to our own lives…

1. Reframe Your Daily Activities 

See routine movements (like walking, cleaning, or gardening) as beneficial exercise. Your body will respond accordingly. I used to dismiss advice like "park at the back of the lot," but now I see those extra steps as a gift. I also carry my grocery bags instead of using a cart when possible, and I take the stairs whenever I can. These small shifts add up.

2. Adopt a Growth Mindset  

Instead of saying, "I’m too old" or "This is just how I am," try asking, "What new and exciting thing can I do today?" Change is always possible.

3. Take Control as much as You Can 

Small choices—like deciding what to eat or being intentional about your daily habits—can have a profound impact on your well-being. 

For example, if you find yourself craving ice cream while sitting on the couch at 9 p.m., pause and check in with yourself: Am I truly hungry, or am I feeling stressed or emotionally drained? 

That moment of awareness can help you make a choice that aligns with your goals. And if you decide to indulge, do it with mindful intention rather than mindless habit—so you can enjoy it fully, without regret.

4. Stay Curious 

Engaging with new ideas and experiences builds both mental and physical resilience. Learning and trying new things keeps life exciting and fulfilling.

Your mind is your most powerful tool. 

Science shows that embracing a positive, empowered mindset can transform not just your mood—but your actual health, aging process, and longevity.

And I truly believe mindfulness is the linchpin of our health and longevity.

What small shift will you make today? Reply to this email and let me know!