When entering old age, is it better to have a peaceful rest or to be diligent in using the brain? Although this varies from person to person due to individual differences, lifestyle habits, and experiences, scholars both domestically and internationally unanimously agree that besides maintaining good habits, older adults should try to use their brains and hands as much as possible within their capabilities.
It is often said that "the brain fears disuse, and the body fears inactivity." Research has found that when people engage in physical and mental labor, their brain blood vessels are often in a relaxed state, and their brain cells receive sufficient blood and oxygen supply. If the brain is used reasonably, it not only does not shorten lifespan but also helps to delay aging.
People who are diligent and eager to learn often stay away from "alcohol, sex, wealth, and anger," and are less likely to be influenced by the interference of "resentful thoughts" and "angry emotions," which is naturally beneficial for their physical and mental health. American psychologist Ramie has found that women who work outside the home have a lower incidence of illness compared to housewives. From this, it can be concluded that diligent work is beneficial to health.
Many people who love their careers and have achieved success often feel that the most unforgettable time is during difficult work. Work builds a bridge between people and real life, enabling them to connect with society, participate in collective activities, and gain friendship, warmth, and sincerity. This is greatly beneficial to physical and mental health, making it less likely for people to fall ill.
The stories of many famous figures from ancient and modern times, both domestic and international, also indicate that as people age, their mechanical memory gradually weakens, but due to the continuous accumulation of knowledge and work experience, the natural decline in intelligence is not significant. The medical masterpiece "Qian Jin Yao Fang" by the famous physician Sun Simiao from the Tang Dynasty was completed when he was 100 years old; the important agricultural science work "Nong Zheng Quan Yao" by the Ming Dynasty scientist Xu Guangqi was not written until he was 63 years old. The renowned philosopher Feng Youlan began writing "A New History of Chinese Philosophy" at the age of 80 and only passed away after completing this work at the age of 95; the famous writer Leo Tolstoy completed the famous novel "Resurrection," which consists of 200,000 words, at the age of 71; and American inventor Thomas Edison obtained his 1033rd patent at the age of 81.
It can be seen that being diligent and eager to learn, actively using the brain, and loving life are manifestations of confidence, vitality, and courage towards one's own life, future, and career. This often forms a positive and enterprising spirit, which plays a beneficial and stimulating role in the body. It can also improve the body's immune system and organ functions, not only beneficial for maintaining mental health but also for prolonging physiological lifespan. However, some older adults in society, after retiring, consider themselves to be in their "twilight years" as soon as they turn 60, losing their enterprising spirit, becoming spiritually lazy and idle, thereby weakening their ability to resist illness and adapt to environmental changes, leading to physical and mental exhaustion and premature aging.
Although diligence is a positive thinking state, lifestyle, and work method, it is also important to pay attention to reasonable time arrangements, balance between work and rest, and not to overwork or overload oneself, as well as to avoid excessive mental stress and excessive labor, in order to prevent overwork-related illnesses. Older adults should pay attention to scientific diet, balanced nutrition, regular lifestyle, and consistent daily routines; maintain a cheerful mood and mental happiness; actively participate in physical exercises within their capabilities to improve physical fitness and resistance to illness. Only by doing so can the goal of delaying aging and achieving healthy longevity be truly achieved.
