Notes on Aging: Physiological vs Chronological

Aging is a process that occurs in 3 dimensional (3D) reality. There is a beginning, a middle and a seeming endpoint in all things. The progression through these stages is evidenced with the passage of time. Time, the all important factor in 3D existence, lends to a linear conceptualization of progression. One sees things change and alter as time passes. Yet, there are ways in which changes and time do not concurrently track each other. Some people appear to age more rapidly / less rapidly than others. What are the mechanisms at play that facilitate these phenomena? How does chronological aging affect someone’s outlook and well-being. How does physiological aging effect a person’s overall outlook and longevity. These processes can be addressed holistically. The aging process need not be viewed as an anathema. Aging is a part of life and can be a pleasant experience incurred through direct awareness, consistent action, and contemplative reflection.

Bound within a circle
This is what we allow to monitor our existence

That aging occurs is fact. Dying is much a part of living as living is part of dying. Many journey through life in a way that disconnects them from the aging process. Although they (may) see it unfolding, they may not truly realize that the very same forces are taking place within their own selves. Thus, they may not take stock of that process’ occurring until something monumental takes place . . . exempli gratia: the passing of a friend or relative of similar or younger age, and injury or health issue incurred by someone who is younger, observing a youngster that one knows from birth becoming ‘older’. It is these or similar events that cause individuals to see that the tenuous temporality of life is . . . life. it is the actuality of 3D reality in which everyone participates  

To be cared for
Woman taking a man’s temperature in bed.

Constituents of Chronological Aging

Chronological aging is that aging process associated with the passage of time. As life on earth is temporal in nature, there is not much that can be done that allows for circumvention. Organs become less functional. The ability of a 20-year old’s heart to pump 10 times the needed blood capacity decreases annually (by) 1% after age 30. Hormone producing capacity decreases with ensuing age. For example, an endocrine tissue may produce less of its hormone than it did at a younger age, or it may produce the same amount at a slower rate. In addition, muscle tone and suppleness lessen and  decrease with age. Susceptibility to brittleness and breakage of bones is common. The joints break down and overall height is lost due to age These are some of the major indicators of the aging process.   

Flowing
Moving like a gentle wind, crashing like a rouge wave.

Constituents of Physiological Aging

Physiological aging can be concurrent with the chronological aging process. Yet, physiology can be such that one enacts measures to mitigate the impact of chronology. Specifically, there are processes that one can employ which can sustain bodily functionality into one’s later years. They include breathing, exercise, diet, rest and experience. Breathing is a natural function but is left to its’ own devices. As such the full breath is seldom explored or accessed. Full breathing will maintain the ability to breath fully. Exercise is available in many styles. There is no excuse for not exercising because there is something for everyone. Diet can be challenging because industry plays on the human gravitation toward sugar fats and salt. One must develop a taste for health over temptation. Sleep . . . many in the modern world are sleep deprived. Rest must be(come) a priority. As age encroaches, the thirst for new experience subsides. Yet, older adults can learn new things and thrive in new environments. Plus, they have the wisdom that comes with life experience wisdom. When coupled with self-confidence, it sets a positive environment for positive change at any age.

So, there is aging. It is an inescapable part of 3D reality. One can age according to natural time constraints. One can put in the effort to maintain more youthful levels of vitality. There is only so much that one can do but . . . . there is always something that one can do.   

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