The Telomere Effect

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A Revolutionary Approach to Living Younger, Healthier, Longer by Elizabeth Blackburn, Ph.D. and Elissa Epel, Ph.D.

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  • Telomeres are DNA protectors on the end of your chromosomes, like aglets on the end of your laces.
  • Telomeres sit outside the gene, are non genetic, and protect your chromosomes, like a Defensive Lineman. protecting your QuarterBack, during division of the cell.
  • Short telomeres = Accelerated ageing.
  • Long telomeres = Long HEALTHSPAN, living healthy & well, longer.
  • Short telomeres = Long DISEASESPAN, overweight, rattling with pills, feeling shite, waiting to die.
  • Lifestyle choices WILL shorten or lengthen those telomeres.
  • Your cells are listening to your thoughts. Challenge Response (“I’m excited! Bring it on!”) vs Threat Response ( “I’m f#cked!”, constantly grinding away at your telomeres), your choice. Mind body connection is REAL.
  • Self awareness of thinking style. Watch thoughts like clouds, let them roll away. Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
  • Unitask, multi tasking is a myth.
  • Mindfulness, Meditation, Yoga, Qigong, just focus on breathing. Telomere Maintenance.
  • Life purpose, get involved in something bigger than yourself. You wanna feel good, do good.
  • Eat, move, sleep (The Fundamentals) your way to Happy Telomeres & away from Metabolic Disease.
    • Sugary shit is addictive, all calories are NOT created equal.
    • Move, or at least be less sat & sedentary. If you have a stressful life (?) exercise is essential as it prevents stress shortened telomeres.
    • Sleep 7+ hours at a bare minimum. If you feel tired in the day (?), you need more sleep at night.
  • Cellular legacy. Our body is a community of interdependent cells, the world is a community of interdependent folks. Use your Healthspan to ripple out to family, friends, anybody that will listen & do. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
  • Genes load the gun, but environment pulls the trigger. Nature via Nurture. Potentials can be expressed, or not, you choose.
  • Concientous people, organised, persistent & task orientated working toward long term goals, have longer telomeres.
  • “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” Helen Keller.
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