Changing the Narrative on Aging

Aging Is Not “Going Downhill”—It’s Getting Seasoned

We often talk about aging as loss. Loss of energy. Loss of sharpness. Loss of relevance.

But what if aging is actually about seasoning?

Seasoning brings depth, wisdom, clarity, and confidence. And while changes do happen as the years add up, the real question is:
What can we do to make this season of life our best one yet?

The Myth About Aging We Need to Retire (Immediately)

One of the first questions I asked Dr. Cabral was simple:

What’s one myth about aging you wish people would stop believing?

Her answer?

“That it’s all downhill.”

That belief—that life just slowly deteriorates after a certain age—is not only false, it’s harmful.

Many people actually thrive as they get older. They become more grounded, more fulfilled, and more aligned with who they truly are. But that only happens if we let go of the idea that aging means making our lives smaller.

Protecting Your Brain as You Age (Without Fear)

One of the biggest concerns people have—especially in their 30s and 40s—is cognitive decline.

Dr. Cabral shared an important insight:

Alzheimer’s and many cognitive changes actually begin in midlife.

That sounds scary—but it’s also empowering. Because it means what you do now matters.

So what helps keep the brain sharp?

Instead of rigid rules, Dr. Cabral emphasized something more personal:

Find what lights your fire

Reconnect with activities that bring joy, purpose, and vitality

Make space for movement that feels good—not forced

Yes, exercise helps. But dancing, gardening, walking, cleaning, or moving while doing everyday tasks counts—especially when you know it’s benefiting you.

(Studies even show that people who know their daily movement is helping their health experience greater benefits than those who don’t.)

Knowledge really is power.

What to Start Doing in Your 30s and 40s

If you could only do a few things to support healthy aging, Dr. Cabral highlighted two big ones:

1. Prioritize Blood Flow to the Brain

That means:

Moving your body regularly

Supporting heart and blood vessel health

Eating in ways that protect cardiovascular health

Avoiding smoking

Good blood flow = nourishment for your brain.

2. Challenge Yourself—Gently but Consistently

Not Sudoku. Not just brain games.

True brain growth happens when you:

Try new experiences

Step outside your comfort zone

Talk to new people

Learn socially and emotionally—not just intellectually

Even something as small as chatting with the cashier when you’re normally shy can help create new neural pathways.

Your brain loves novelty.

The Lifestyle Habit That Speeds Up Aging the Most

When I asked what people should stop doing if they want to age well, Dr. Cabral didn’t hesitate:

Staying stuck.

Living on autopilot. Never challenging yourself. Assuming life is “set” by midlife.

That stagnation—mentally, socially, emotionally—is far more damaging than most people realize.

Aging well requires curiosity, courage, and the willingness to evolve.

How to Stay Positive About Getting Older

Here’s a truth we don’t say out loud enough:

We romanticize youth.

We forget how confusing, insecure, and difficult those years often were. Meanwhile, aging brings stability, wisdom, perspective, and influence.

But here’s the catch:
If we don’t step into that role—if we don’t show up as elders, mentors, and grounded adults—everyone misses out.

Especially the younger generations.

“Don’t mope away your influence. This season is golden too.”

That might be one of the most powerful lines of the entire conversation.

Simple, Realistic Nutrition Wisdom

When it comes to food and aging, Dr. Cabral kept it real.

Rather than overwhelm people with rules, she encouraged awareness—especially around sugar and emotional eating.

A powerful experiment?

Remove a habitual sugary food for a few days

Notice how the craving fades

Recognize your own agency and control

Your brain adapts faster than you think.

This conversation wasn’t meant to stay theoretical.

So here’s the invitation: