Love is a powerful antidote to what ails us.

In previous blogs I have been reflecting on the beautiful book written by Gladys McGarey, MD. Her book, “The Well-Lived Life: A 103-Year-Old Doctor’s Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age” describes six secrets to a happier, healthier and more fulfilled life. Feel free to check out those blogs here and here. Today, I am reflecting on Secret #3: Love is the most powerful medicine. Our lifeforce is activated by love.

Activate your lifeforce!

Love is a powerful antidote to what ails us. That energy/lifeforce is fueled by love. The love you give and the love you receive. All kinds of love. Love in the form of appreciation. Love in the form of kindness. Love in the form of compassion. Giving love doesn’t mean you must love that person. Love is an action. And if you pay attention, you will see love all around you.

I see it in the simple gestures from my friends and family. I see it in the kindness from strangers. Have you ever received a random text or phone call from a friend just checking in and reminding you, that you matter? That is love in action. That is fueling your lifeforce and as your lifeforce is fueled with love, you have more love to give. It is reciprocal. It’s kind of like the concept of “pay it forward.” It is a beautiful dance with this energy lifeforce that begins with us.

There is a connection between Secret #3 and the Blue Zones Power 9 principles. Our sense of belonging, strong familial connections and a strong support of friend groups is essential to health and happiness according to the Blue Zones Power 9 common health habits from around the world. These principles are all tied directly to love. Both the giving and receiving of love.

Secret #4 is coming up but until then, take a moment to pay attention to all the acts of love that are happening around you. I bet you will not be able to resist feeling joy and the desire to reciprocate that love.

Here are the secrets from Dr. Gladys we have shared in weeks past.

Secret #1: Each of us is here to connect with our unique gifts; this is what activates our desire to be alive. Dr. Gladys refers to this secret as the “juice” or “purpose.” She sites Blue Zones research regarding the power of purpose and how it can impact our lives, creating more happiness and well-being.

Secret #2: All life needs to move. Life itself is always in movement, so aligning with our lifeforce means that we must always look for flow within us.