Aging has a dark underside that sometimes means that our physical and mental vitality leaves us and we wilt in our twilight years. But this does not need to be. On the bright side, we know that we can preserve our bodies and our minds, and enhance our vitality. This article focuses on the art of aging and what measures we can take to get the fulfillment out of life that we desire.

Make sure you are eating REAL whole grains to help your body get the nutrients that it needs. Most whole grains that you see in the store have been processed to the point that they are not much better than a piece of white bread. Eating whole grains like oats, quinoa and brown rice will give you the vitamins, minerals and fiber you need to keep feeling your best.

Increasing your social activities can improve your lifestyle as you get older. Being part of a group can help you to keep learning and experiencing new things. Join a seniors group, a craft class, or a cooking class. Keeping busy will give you no time to feel older!

Let guilt go. A long life is sure to have things that you may feel guilty about. Do not let this guilt run your life. Make amends or forgive yourself and forget. In many cases there is no way to undo the things that have been done, and all that we can do is make the most of the time we have left.

Laugh often and live long. Laughter is very good for you. It keeps your spirits high and keeps the blood flowing. It will increase positive hormones in your body that will help to eliminate some of the toxins in your blood stream. Laugh until you have to gasp for breath.

Depression is a “hidden” risk for developing osteoporosis. Cortisol is a stress-related hormone related to depression that depletes the bones of minerals. Studies have shown that women with depression have lower bone density in their spines and hips. So, if you're feeling down, see your doctor to find out if you have depression.

Growing old is old fashioned. Our increased health spans mean that we are younger than we think. Aging with grace is an art and takes effort to see the beauty in it at times. So, go out and live life to the fullest because you are not as old as you think.