How great is it that Cameron Diaz, at 43 years of age, is championing women in their 40s before they hit the infamous (although not for me) “big 5-0” by helping them embrace “aging with longevity”. In her new book, “The Longevity Book: The Science of Aging, the Biology of Strength, and the Privilege of Time”, published by Harper Collins in an effort to change the discussion about aging (Kudos to them!), Diaz conveys that aging is a privilege and should be celebrated.
“If you’re aging, that means you’re alive.”
This has been part of my mantra since I turned 50 in 2008. I’m fortunate enough to have never gone through an aging crisis, but I know that for many women out there that’s not the case. How do we reverse the stigma that comes with women and aging? It will be a slow process, but a process that could begin now with us – the Baby Boomers. Let’s make it so the women after us aren’t objected to feeling ashamed of their age, their appearance, their “lost youth” so to speak. Let’s be role models. Let’s illustrate what an ageless life looks like. Let’s focus on the present. Again, aging is a gift. Make that your mantra.
Women like Cameron Diaz are nothing short of inspiring. She first released The Body Book to teach women about their bodies and now The Longevity Book continues the conversation by exploring the usually frowned-upon topic of the aging woman’s body.
From the Harper Collins description:
“The Longevity Book explores what history, biology, neuroscience, and the women’s health movement can teach us about maintaining optimal health as we transition from our thirties to midlife. From understanding how growing older impacts various bodily systems to the biological differences in the way aging effects men and women; the latest science on telomeres and slowing the rate of cognitive decline to how meditation heals us and why love, friendship, and laughter matter for health, The Longevity Book offers an all-encompassing, holistic look at how the female body ages—and what we can all do to age better.”
