Fridays with Manny

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HOW TO FEEL YOUNGER?

Notice that I didn’t write how to look younger. That’s because there are countless topical treatments and even surgical procedures that can alter our appearance. But looking younger doesn’t necessarily mean feeling younger. According to my birthdate, I am 78 years young. Yet, when I “fish for compliments” (as my wife affectionately puts it), most people guess my age to be somewhere between 65 and 68. One reason for that, I believe, is my energy level—I act and live as if I were much younger. So how do I do it?

One of my favorite things to do while driving or walking is listening to podcasts. Recently, I tuned into a conversation between Mel Robbins and Dr. Eric Topol, author of the bestselling book Super Agers. Dr. Topol identifies three essential pillars for preventing many health issues and ensuring a joyful retirement: Exercise, Nutrition, and Deep Sleep—ideally around eight hours per night.

I try to incorporate each of these pillars into my daily routine. My mornings usually begin with about 45 minutes of stretching exercises. Then there’s a walk with Max, our cheerful labradoodle. As for diet, I’ve shared my daily menu with many of you in the past.

Sleep, however, used to be a challenge. Until recently, I would wake up two or three times each night to use the restroom, and it often took a while to fall back asleep. But two weeks ago, everything changed.

After publishing my new book, Reflections. The Healing Images™, I decided to use it for its intended purpose: to ease into a relaxed state before bedtime. The process is simple. About ten minutes before going to sleep, I enter a meditative state—a technique I described in last week’s post. By 10:15 PM, I’m in bed, and the moment I close my eyes, I fall asleep. I typically wake up just once during the night, and quickly drift back to sleep. By six in the morning, Max is ready to start our day.

These three pillars—exercise, nourishment, and quality sleep—are what help me feel younger than my years. If you haven’t already adopted similar habits, consider starting with the easiest and perhaps most transformative: a good night’s sleep. Restful sleep not only restores your body and mind, but also reduces stress and supports overall health.

If you’re curious about how Reflections might support your own journey toward well-being, I invite you to order a copy. Develop a simple nighttime habit, and let the healing begin. And if it helps, don’t keep it to yourself—share your experience with others.

The three images inside this story are from the book.

Wishing you a joyful and rejuvenating Fourth of July!

Care and share!

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