Are We Living Too Short a Life and Dying Too Long?
Modern life presents a striking paradox. We work tirelessly to pursue success, yet often feel unfulfilled — feeling a lingering sense of emptiness. We seek comfort, the latest trendy gadgets, and convenience but endure poor health, have low resilience, and no longer use common sense. We live longer, but spend much of that time disconnected from our true purpose and others, often in fear (of mostly everything), and addicted to the news and social media.
The provocative title, “Are we living too short a life and dying too long?” captures our predicament, urging us to examine whether we are living with intention and vitality or simply drifting through life as it quietly slips away, all the while medicated — and emotionless.
So, are we living longer, only to spend more time unwell, disengaged, or unfulfilled?
I hope this article will lead you to reflect and evaluate how long we live and how fully we experience the years we’re given. Often, I have asked myself if I am making intentional choices to thrive or merely drifting through life, weighed down by routine and missed opportunities because I thought that sometimes I forgot to live, to be me and live authentically, by being a people-pleaser and giving way too much of myself, and not quite listening to my needs and looking for what would make me truly happy. For example, from 20-25 years old and 30-40 years old, I worked constantly, not once thinking I deserved a holiday. Sometimes, I would work six months without a day off, pushing through as if it would make a difference in my life.
Did it?
No, it didn’t. Those years, I will never get them back. The fun I never had, the people I haven’t met, the places I didn’t go, will I ever catch up?
To be fair, I do not resent it. It was a choice. I didn’t know any better. I thought that a chef had to break or make it. I did both… and my body remembers everything. Adrenal insufficiency at 24 should have been a wake-up call, a period in my life I do not wish for anyone.
When I reached 40, I realised I needed to live to be there for others and guide them toward health and happiness. Since then, I have practiced what I preach. I walk the path, and I stay true to myself. I have never been healthier and happier than now, more mindful and grounded.
The Busyness Trap: Mistaking Activity for Fulfilment
In our modern world, busyness has become a badge of honour. Packed schedules, endless to-do lists, and constant multitasking make us feel productive, but are we truly fulfilled? Many of us postpone happiness, thinking, “I’ll feel complete once I achieve this goal, fix this problem, or reach that milestone.” Yet, we never feel whole.
Life isn’t waiting for the perfect moment — it’s unfolding right now. We lose sight of the present by obsessing over our unachievable goals or past regrets. As a result, our days blur together — living passively on autopilot — where meaningful connection and joy are mostly absent, living a life that feels way too short.
The Paradox of Longer Lives
While modern medicine gives us the impression it has added years to our lives, how we spend them has changed. Many people now spend decades struggling with chronic illnesses, emotional distress, or feelings of disconnection while popping one to six pills a day, mainly to mask the symptoms caused by the previous pill. The time we live actively engaged and vibrant seems to shrink, while the time spent surviving — merely getting by — seems to grow far too long. Some people are so disconnected that they completely forget to live, having lost all purpose.
This invites us to reconsider what it means to live well and be well in our being. Longevity is not the same as vitality. To live fully is to experience health, purpose, and joy — not just to exist for as long as possible.
Pain: A Messenger, Not a Life Sentence
Physical or emotional pain often feels like a barrier to living a full life. Yet pain is not the enemy — it’s a messenger. Physical pain signals the need for rest or healing, while emotional pain often points to unresolved issues or unmet needs. Ignoring these signals, as many of us do, can lead to greater suffering in the long term.
Today, we’re quick to suppress pain. We take medications to numb discomfort or distract us to avoid difficult emotions and busyness to push through exhaustion. However, this often aggravates the problem, eroding our well-being over time.
True healing begins when we listen to what our pain is trying to tell us and address the root causes.
The Underappreciated Power of Relaxation
In a culture that glorifies productivity, relaxation is often undervalued. Many see it as indulgent or unproductive (similar to how too many see sleep). Yet relaxation is essential—it’s the reset button that allows our bodies and minds to recharge, adapt, and thrive.
True relaxation goes beyond surface-level rest, such as binge-watching television or scrolling through social media. It’s a deep state of calm that restores balance to the nervous system, reduces stress, and creates the mental clarity needed to make intentional choices.
6 Modalities to Live Fully
To truly reclaim your life, consider integrating these six powerful modalities into your daily routine:
1. Hypnotherapy
One of the most transformative tools for achieving this state is hypnosis. Unlike passive forms of rest, hypnosis facilitates profound mental and physical relaxation while enhancing self-awareness. It can help release the tension and mental clutter, opening the door to healing, focus, and purposeful living.
Hypnosis offers a unique opportunity to access a deep state of relaxation while staying fully aware. It helps you address stress at its root, reframe limiting beliefs, and reprogram your subconscious for positive change. Through regular practice, hypnosis can become your mental reset button, allowing you to thrive.
2. Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness teaches us to focus on the present moment rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Meditation complements this by quieting the mind and developing a sense of inner peace. Together, these practices improve emotional regulation, clarity, and overall well-being.
3. Nutritional Therapy
Your diet profoundly impacts your physical and mental health. Prioritise nutrient-dense foods rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, dietary fibre, and key macronutrients (healthy fat, carbs, and lean protein) to support energy, mood, and cognitive function. To improve digestion and increase vitality, address your gut and mental health (e.g., stress management).
4. Movement and Exercise
Physical activity isn’t just about fitness; it’s a cornerstone of mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, reduces stress, and enhances mood. Whether it’s yoga, walking, strength training, or dancing, find a form of movement you enjoy and make it part of your routine.
5. Breathwork
Breathing deeply and consciously can instantly calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and enhance focus. Techniques like diaphragmatic, box, or alternate nostril breathing help you connect with your body, stay grounded in the present and take control of your blood pressure and heart rate.
6. Nature Therapy
Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall health. Walking in the woods (forest bathing), gardening, or simply sitting in a park, connecting with nature can be profoundly healing.
Breaking the Cycle: Steps to Start Living Fully
1. Listen to Your Body
Your body speaks to you through signals like fatigue, pain, or bursts of energy. Honour these messages by resting when needed, seeking support when in pain, and fuelling yourself with nourishing food and movement.
2. Prioritise Relaxation
Make relaxation non-negotiable. Whether through hypnosis, mindfulness, or simply taking a few deep breaths, find moments to reset and recharge. True relaxation creates the space needed for clarity and healing.
3. Align Your Actions with Your Values
Reflect on what truly matters to you and ensure your daily choices reflect those priorities. This alignment helps you develop a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
4. Embrace Imperfection
Life is inherently messy, filled with setbacks and uncertainties. Instead of resisting these challenges, embrace them as opportunities for growth. Every imperfect moment is a chance to live authentically.
Life is Happening Now
Life doesn’t begin in the future; it unfolds right now.
Every decision you make shapes your present and future. Stop waiting for the perfect time or ideal circumstances. Begin by taking small steps to nurture your body, mind, and spirit today.
Relaxation is the gateway to a meaningful life. It’s not a luxury but a necessity. By prioritising relaxation and integrating intentional practices, you can break free from the cycle of merely existing and start truly living.
Ready to Start Living Fully?
Reclaiming your life begins with stress management techniques. It can lead to better choices, emotional clarity, and personal growth. If you’re ready to take the first step, explore tools and resources to support your journey.
Because life is happening now, and it’s time to start living it fully.