Purpose and Longevity: What Keeps Me Going
Purpose and Longevity: What Keeps Me Going
As I age, I’ve come to realize that wellness isn’t just about how strong our bodies are or how well we eat—it’s about what fuels our hearts and minds. For me, that fuel is purpose.
I’ve spent my life helping others find balance, vitality, relaxation, and confidence in their own skin. But somewhere along the way, I discovered that purpose—the “why” behind what we do—is what truly sustains us. It gives meaning to the early mornings, the long days, and even the quiet moments when no one is watching.
I’ve seen it in the faces of guests who rediscover a part of themselves during a wellness retreat or spa service, and in the stories of clients who find new motivation after years of feeling stuck. And I’ve felt it myself—how staying connected to something bigger than the daily grind brings energy, clarity, and peace that no supplement or workout can match.
Purpose keeps us young.
It keeps us curious.
It reminds us that every stage of life holds possibility.
I believe that as we age, we don’t have to slow down—we just have to go deeper.
🌱 The Science Behind Purpose and Longevity
1. Purpose = Lower Mortality Risk
Large studies—including research from Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA)—have shown that people with a strong sense of purpose are:
15–30% less likely to die from any cause during study periods
Less likely to develop cardiovascular disease or cognitive decline
2. Purpose and the Brain
Having purpose activates brain regions tied to motivation and reward (the dopaminergic system). It supports neuroplasticity, keeping your brain adaptable, engaged, and more resilient to depression or dementia.
3. Hormonal and Immune Benefits
Purposeful living lowers chronic stress markers like cortisol and improves immune regulation. People with purpose show stronger resilience to illness and faster recovery times.
4. Purpose and Movement
Purpose-driven people tend to move more—not because they have to, but because movement is meaningful. Whether it’s training to stay strong for grandchildren, hiking to connect with nature, or teaching others wellness, that intrinsic motivation sustains long-term healthy habits.
💫 Defining Purpose After 60: The “Third Act” Mindset
Many people in their 60s enter what psychologists call the “Third Act”—a phase not of slowing down, but of refinement. Purpose becomes less about achievement and more about impact, connection, and authenticity.
Common purpose themes in active aging include:
Legacy: Mentoring younger professionals or wellness clients
Service: Using lifelong skills (like mine in fitness and spa wellness) to help others heal, recover, or rediscover joy
Growth: Continuing to learn, explore, and challenge both mind and body
Community: Creating belonging and shared wellbeing
How to Deepen Purpose in Daily Life
Reflective Practice
Try journaling, meditation, or mindful walking. Ask yourself:
What makes me feel most alive?
When do I lose track of time?
Whose lives do I want to positively impact?
Integrate Purpose Into Work
As a Spa and Wellness Director, I aim to:
Lead programs focused on longevity and vitality, rather than “anti-aging.”
Create wellness events and services for guests, staff, and our community.
Mentor team members in aligning career fulfillment with personal wellbeing.
Share my experiences to inspire others on their wellness path.
Physical Purpose
Train for strength and mobility—not for aesthetics, but as self-leadership.
At 62, I love to work out, play pickleball, walk, or take on new challenges that keep me energized and grounded.
Social Purpose
Purpose thrives in connection. Whether through clients, staff, or family, relationships sustain wellbeing.
After losing people close to me, I’ve learned that time with loved ones is the greatest gift—make the call, take the trip, be present. It’s always worth it.
Continuous Learning
Keep exploring the science of purposeful living:
Ikigai – The Japanese concept of “reason for being”
Blue Zones research – Dan Buettner’s studies on longevity cultures
Positive psychology – Courses from the University of Pennsylvania or Coursera
Your Purpose Awaits
It’s never too late to rediscover what makes you feel truly alive.
At Woodcliff Hotel & Spa, we believe wellness begins with purpose—nurturing body, mind, and spirit through every season of life.
What is your purpose?
Take time to reconnect, reflect, and rediscover it with us. 🌿