How a Near-Death Experience Changed Jane Seymour's Outlook on Aging

Embracing Aging Gracefully

At 75, Jane Seymour embodies a refreshing perspective on aging, which she attributes to a life-altering event. The English actress shares how a near-death experience from anaphylactic shock in her 40s transformed her outlook on health and longevity.

Rather than viewing aging with dread, Seymour views her life as a precious opportunity, stating, "I'm happy to be doing it." This incident taught her to treat her body with the same care she would give a vehicle, emphasizing, "I remember looking at my body from above… that's your vehicle. I am responsible for taking care of this car."

A New Approach to Wellness

Seymour's mindset shift led her to adopt a more nurturing attitude towards her health. Rather than trying to reclaim her youth, she focuses on making the most of her present age. "I'm not going to pretend I'm 20 when I'm 70. I'm going to be the best I can be at the age I'm at," she explains.

Four Longevity Rules

Curious about her approach to aging? Here are her four longevity rules that have guided her:

1. Attitude is Everything

Seymour's experience instilled in her an unshakeable positive outlook. "Getting up and not giving up is important," she asserts, reflecting a tenacity that resonates through her life and work. Her boyfriend, musician John Zambetti, even penned a song inspired by her resilience, highlighting her belief that it’s not how you fall, but how you get back up.

2. Exercise Within Your Limits

Physical activity is vital for Seymour, but she emphasizes the importance of listening to her body. "I’m not going to overdo it," she says, committing to at least three workouts a week. Seymour focuses on strength training and mobility exercises, using reformers or bodyweight exercises when equipment isn’t available. She acknowledges the necessity of weight-bearing activities as age increases, reinforcing the significance of maintaining physical fitness.

3. Nourish Your Skin

Seymour believes skincare plays a crucial role in her self-perception. "Taking care of my skin is probably the most important thing I can do—not just for me, but for how I come across in the world," she says. After years of using specific products, she credits her glowing skin to her consistent skincare routine, emphasizing that confidence is paramount to attraction.

4. Find Purpose in Helping Others

Serving others is a cornerstone of Seymour's mental wellness. Through her Open Hearts Foundation, she finds fulfillment in supporting those in need. "My mother said there's always someone worse off than you, and you can find purpose by being of help to someone else," she recalls, showcasing her commitment to community well-being. For her, a fulfilling day involves both self-care and helping others, enriching her sense of purpose.

Ultimately, Seymour believes that wellness is a holistic endeavor that encompasses physical, emotional, and community aspects of life. By prioritizing these aspects, she crafts a life that remains fulfilling and vibrant, proving that graceful aging is about attitude and action.