HOMILY - SHELIA MORGAN

SUNDAY 27TH JULY 2025

Secrets of a Long Life

What is the secret to a long, vibrant life? The question has enchanted philosophers, scientists, poets, and the everyday person for centuries. From the fabled fountains of youth to the blue zones of the modern world, humanity’s quest for longevity is as old as time itself. Today, science and tradition converge, revealing that the secret to a long life is neither single nor simple but a tapestry of habits, attitudes, and choices woven together.

Nutrition: The Foundation of Longevity

We are what we eat as the saying goes, and we are so lucky to have so much available good food around us.  Take a moment to review your food habits – are they supporting your health and wellbeing, what can we do better.

Physical Activity: Movement as Medicine

You don’t have to be a marathon runner as long as you move, do what you love, for me that is walking, swimming, Qi Gong, Chair Yoga. But I cannot do them all the time there are such pressures on us but consistently doing 30 minutes 3 times a week will be an easy commitment for most of us.

Social Connections: The Heart’s Medicine

Well done you are here and now using the power of Community to make you well.  Other forms are every time you reach out to a friend or family member or say yes to an invite you are helping your Heart Chakra to blossom.  Why not make the first move who is a friend or family member you haven’t talked to in a while. By reaching out you are enlivening both of your energy fields.

Mental Attitude: The Power of Purpose and Positivity

Turning our attitude and thoughts towards the good.  It is too easy in our society to get caught up in doom and gloom and yet we are living very fortunate lives, and we can appreciate and have gratitude for everything and everyone around us and that means all the lessons and the blessings. I find journaling so helpful for this being honest and authentic in what I write down and having that feeling of letting go of the old and getting excited about the new, adapting to change which is the only thing we can rely upon all things do change.

Restorative Sleep: The Undervalued Elixir

At least 10 minutes of daylight before 9 and regular Activity: Exposure to natural light during the day and regular exercise promote healthy sleep patterns. The old saying was one hour before 12 is worth 2 hours of rest.  How are you doing?

Environmental Harmony: Living in Sync with Nature

Being aware of the Seasons I often think our gardens with their seasons showing us how nature takes care of itself in the best way possible, and our animals show us how to live in Sync.  My cat Opal is perfectly happy to spend most of the days indoors at the moment on my bed as it captures the afternoon Sun.  She has a lot to teach me about slowing down too.  Every time I sit in the evening, there she is on my knee getting cross if I have to move her to do something. 

Moderate Indulgence and Habits: The Art of Balance

Whatever you are passionate about remember moderation is the key we can all get carried away from time to time but it is good to regulate ourselves and not go too far overboard.  But treating ourselves every once in a while, is such a good thing. 

Continuous Learning and Curiosity

A mind that never stops exploring and learning seems to keep itself young.  I feel this is such a big key, to never stop learning and being curious about life.  Again, being here at our Services and the Workshops we provide definitely helps us to find things to explore and maybe even learn a new passion or modality.

Cultural and Spiritual Connection

Prayer, meditation, or communal gatherings provide comfort, guidance, and a sense of peace.  How lucky are we.  Stand up and greet your neighbours I will bring you back in about 3 minutes listen for the bell.

Conclusion: The Tapestry of Longevity

The true secret of a long life is not hidden in a single habit, diet, or philosophy. Rather, it’s a symphony—a harmonious blending of body, mind, spirit, and environment. It’s in the laughter of family dinners, the quiet moments of gratitude, the daily walks in nature, and the resilience to greet each new dawn with hope.

In the end, longevity is both a gift and a craft—a legacy shaped by countless small decisions, joyful connections, and an enduring sense of wonder. As we learn from those who have walked the long road before us, we are reminded that the pursuit of a long life is, above all, a celebration of life itself.