I often see stunning photos of celebrities titled to be “ageing gracefully” but, it is appears to only be within the context of conventional standards of beauty. It only makes me continue to ask what does ageing gracefully really mean?

For during some of my Hospice Volunteering shifts I have witnessed, the indignity of a deaf man defecating into an adult diaper and waiting for an attendant for assistance. A sweet woman with no legs. A hysterical new patient crying endlessly for her husband until he arrived and shared plenty of conversations that were a cycle of repetition of the same story with maybe a little different ‘twist’ each time.

None of these seemed particularly graceful but, moments of kindness, laughter & joy peaked through as extreme these examples may seem. But, when we portray one particular form of beauty as ageing gracefully, we neglect the experience of so many others. No one can escape the bodily decay of ageing although some may have a stronger constitution than others. I don’t think we should just give up and not take preventative measures and care to ‘give time’ for ourselves and well-deserved attention to our physical, mental, emotional, spiritual / energetic health and wellbeing. As we age, let’s not fixate on the way we look, that state of our body, and the million possible ways to improve it and by doing so, overlooking divine grace.

The word ‘grace’ contains multiple meanings. I believe ageing with grace goes far beyond external beauty. Instead, to age with grace ~ live with grace means to me: Expanding your capacity to love, to express compassion, to be tolerant, understanding and forgiving and the ability to see reality as it is. Accepting whatever unfolds in your life and let go in every moment. Divine grace, regenerates your spirit, sanctifies your being, what ever your physical container might look like. Divine grace, inspires virtuous thoughts, words and actions that uplift you and others and provides strength to face and transform the trials that naturally occur as you age. Divine Grace, helps you meet death with understanding and peace. The body houses your divine essence so please do care for it and regard it with respect.

Our bodies disintegrate for a good reason thou; as a reminder that we are not this body, we are not this mind. You don’t have to wait for old age to live in divine grace, however. The follow practices – when employed regularly – will provide an essential foundation for letting grace flow, whatever your age. Most people link the body and the self as one. This typically brings emotional pain since we’re rarely happy with our body – too fat, too thin, too wrinkled, nose too big, and on and on. Even when you achieve momentary “perfection,” sweat, smears, and wrinkles can destroy it in an instant.

From a higher perspective, the body does not permanently exist. In every moment, it undergoes constant change at the micro level that eventually becomes apparent at the macro level. So, there is no permanent, unchanging body. And since the physical body dies, it certainly is not you. One day, you’ll have to say good-bye to your body. It will be so much easier at that time, if you train now to see this body as none other than a transitory illusion. When you look in the mirror each day, ask yourself if what you see is the real you. Who, what is the real you? Contemplating, this question can lead to deep insight.

“I am not this body, I am not this mind, I am not these senses, Immortal self am I. – “Soham Soham Soham Sivoham.” – Hindu chant

Most people believe they are their thoughts, emotions, and sensations and get all wrapped up in their goals, dreams, and ambitions or conversely their self-hatred, compulsive tendencies, and despair. But that is equally deceptive. Just like the body, all that arises in the mind is transitory. The more attention you invest in it, the more real and solid it can seem. And the more distress comes your way. Instead of being a slave to your thoughts and emotions, spend time with the part of your mind that’s unchanging.

Watch and get to know the intricacies and tendencies of your own mind. See for yourself how the display constantly changes. Be aware of the aspect of you that’s taking it all in, but has the capacity to relax and let go of all the fleeting inner and outer experiences of life. Align with your pure awareness rather than your thoughts and emotions. There’s much more to living in divine grace, but these two practices – when taken to heart – will bring you deep insight and an amazing sense of freedom.