Understanding and Embracing the Aging Process
By Bill Murphy, MD, Medical Director, Turquoise Springs Medical Spa
Aging is not an optional experience. It is an inevitable journey each of us travel together as time marches forward. Yet, the way we perceive and experience aging can vary depending on our lifestyle, mindset, genetics and social environment. The concepts of “looking older” and “feeling older” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. One pertains to outward appearance, while the other relates to internal well-being. Let’s dive into the two and see if we can find a way to navigate aging with greater acceptance, awareness, and even empowerment to live our best life.
Why We Look Older: the Physical Signs of Aging
What most notice first about aging is its impact on appearance. Gray hair, sagging skin, and wrinkles are some of the visible signs someone is growing older. Each of us differs as we have different genetics, history of sun exposure, and lifestyle habits. As I have written multiple times in the past, we have a natural decline in collagen and elastin—the proteins that keep our skin firm and youthful. However, these proteins can be restored.
As we age, our skin becomes thinner and less able to retain moisture. Muscle tone and fat distribution also shift, contributing to a less defined facial structure. The ancient Greeks wished to define beauty with mathematics. They measured the dimensions of the faces of the most beautiful, young male and female Athenians, by local opinion. They discovered a perfect, youthful face is wide across the eyes and narrows down to a point at the chin. Basically, an upside down triangle, or angular face. As we age, this triangle slowly flips over, so the mid-face is more narrow, and the lower face is heavier with jowling and thickness around the mouth. For some, these changes begin as early as their 30s or 40s, while others may not see significant signs until much later.
The goal of an aesthetic plan devised by your medical spa team is to use the latest safe and effective techniques to “flip the triangle back” to its more youthful position. While such measures can be effective in addressing certain signs of aging, it is also important we address the underlying biological processes. Better fuel for our engine, exercise, improved sleep, and brain nutrition are vital. Equally important, is to also address the internal experience of aging—how we feel as we grow older.
Why We Feel Older: It’s Not All in Your Head
Feeling older isn’t just about physical aches or reduced stamina—it’s a whole body experience influenced by energy levels, mental clarity, emotional resilience, and social engagement. Often, people begin to “feel” older when they notice they’re not bouncing back from physical exertion like they used to, when sleep becomes elusive, or when persistent stress or health issues begin to take a toll.
Hormonal changes play a significant role in how we feel as we age. For instance, menopause and andropause can bring about fatigue, mood swings, and a general sense of malaise. Normalization of hormonal levels of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and thyroid, in men and women, is critical to restoring your “mojo”.
Depression, anxiety, and loneliness are common in older adults, particularly those who feel adrift from their community or sense of purpose. Conversely, individuals who maintain a sense of purpose, stay socially active, and adopt a positive attitude about aging often report feeling younger and more vital.
What Is Possible to Slow and Reverse Time?
Fortunately, many of the factors that influence how we look and feel as we age are within our control. Lifestyle choices—such as diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management—play a critical role in slowing the effects of aging and promoting well-being. Persons who practice social and spiritual engagement, have an interest in lifelong learning of any subject, and participate in community activities tend to feel younger and enjoy better health outcomes.
A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, lean proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients can support skin health, brain function, and energy levels. Regular physical activity, including strength training and cardiovascular exercise, helps maintain muscle mass, flexibility, and circulation. Restorative sleep allows the body to repair and regenerate, improving both mood and appearance.
While it’s normal to be concerned about the visible signs of aging or the physical limitations that may come with it, it’s equally important to nurture the internal aspects of well-being. Rather than seeing aging as a loss, many are learning to view it as a time for reinvention, growth, and deepened relationships.
At Turquoise Springs, we wish for you to look and feel younger. Modern aesthetic techniques, hormones, weight loss, and the comprehensive care of our Concierge Functional Medicine program make it possible for you to live your best life. Whether you are 35 or 100, your triangle can be flipped over, and you can restore your mojo. Call 210-253-3313 to make a fresh start to look and feel younger.
