Aging, Yoga & the Super-Ager Science

In this episode of The Youthful Older Yogi, MJ dives deep into what it really means to age well — not just in years, but in purpose, vitality, and joy.

She shares the latest science on healthy aging, what researchers look for when predicting long-term wellness, and how optimism can help you live not just longer, but better longer.   You’ll hear about:
🧘‍♀️ Why it’s never too late to start yoga — and how simple movements can improve your balance, strength, and independence.

 🌍 The Blue Zones — what researcher Dan Buettner discovered about the world’s longest-lived people and how connection, purpose, and movement make all the difference.

 🧠 The Science of Optimism — how studies show that a positive mindset can lengthen lifespan by up to 15% and support healthy aging markers like grip strength and mobility.

❤️ MJ’s personal story — from pain and double hip replacement to recovery, renewal, and rediscovering optimism through yoga, visualization, and community.

💬 Why optimism isn’t naive — Optimism isn’t pretending everything’s perfect — it’s believing you can keep moving forward, even when things are hard. That belief changes everything. It’s a practice, just like yoga, and it can be cultivated one thought (and one breath) at a time.

Whether you’re in your 50s, 70s, or beyond, this episode reminds you that aging well isn’t about chasing youth — it’s about building resilience, joy, and connection in every stage of life.

🔗 Resources

 https://danbuettner.com/                                                                                                                          Boston University study on optimism and longevity (PNAS Journal)                            Best Possible Self Exercise