This story is from January 21, 2025
How to stay healthy even at 75 and beyond: Singapore Finance Wizard shares 'SHIELD' formula
Have you ever wondered why some people stay healthy, active, and full of energy even as they grow older? Everybody aspires to live a long and healthy life. In a world where wellness trends come and go, one former Singapore government official has shared his wisdom in a simple yet powerful formula. Ng Kok Song is a prominent Singaporean financier and entrepreneur, known for his extensive career in finance. He served as the Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore and was. According to his LinkedIn profile, he is also the founder of an investment company in Singapore and has held high-level positions in finance and investment at several companies.
Ng Kok Song, at 76, shared a simple and powerful approach to a long and vibrant life. In a video shared on his Instagram account revealed the SHIELD approach to health. But what does SHIELD stand for? In simple everyday terms the word ‘shield’ means anything that offers protection from harm, like health measures against illness. An Ng’s SHEILD is very similar to it. The acronym of SHIELD serves as a guide for anyone looking to enhance their quality of life as they age.
Here's what SHIELD means:
S: Sleep- Sleep is fundamental to good health. Ng stresses the importance of getting seven hours of quality sleep each night. Adequate sleep helps rejuvenate the body and is crucial for cognitive function and emotional stability. Individuals who prioritize sleep often experience improved concentration during the day and better mood regulation. Moreover, consistent sleep patterns can enhance overall productivity by allowing the brain to rest and recover effectively.
H: Handling Stress- Handling stress is essential for both mental and physical health. Ng promotes meditation as an effective method of handling stress. The mind can be soothed and anxiety levels reduced by regular meditation. Taking just ten minutes each day to meditate will lead to considerable improvements in one's ability to cope with the pressures of everyday life. Additionally, mindfulness activities may promote peacefulness and clarity of thought, allowing a person to move through the obstacles in life with much more ease.
I: Interaction- Interaction with people plays a vital role in our well-being. Ng highlights the importance of engaging in conversations and nurturing relationships with others. Building connections can provide emotional support and enhance feelings of belonging. Participating in several group activities like joining a book club or a painting class or simply having regular chats with friends can boost happiness levels. Furthermore, meaningful interactions can stimulate mental sharpness as discussions often involve sharing ideas and experiences.
E: Exercise- Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining health as we age. Ng incorporates various forms of exercise into his routine such as playing tennis, walking while golfing, swimming, and gardening. Exercise helps in improving cardiovascular health while enhancing muscle strength and flexibility. Daily walks improve stamina, while activities like gardening offers physical exercise as well as mental relaxation through the interaction with nature.
L: Learn- Another pillar in Ng's health philosophy is lifelong learning. He believes that continuing learning at even an older age keeps the mind active and engaged. Ng gives the example of how he is currently learning video editing. Learning new skills helps in maintaining flexibility in life as the world is constantly changing, and it aids in person's development.
D: Diet- According to Ng's formula, a well-balanced diet is required for good health. He advises moderating carbohydrate intake while focusing on low sugar consumption and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. This keeps energy levels in check while avoiding chronic diseases due to unhealthy eating habits. Consuming healthy fruits and vegetables ensures that there is an adequate amount of vitamins and antioxidants in the diet for healthy living.
Ng Kok Song's SHIELD formula offers practical guidance for improving health as people age. With the right mindset and habits, one can dance through life with energy and enthusiasm and literally 'shield' themselves from harm.
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Here's what SHIELD means:
S: Sleep- Sleep is fundamental to good health. Ng stresses the importance of getting seven hours of quality sleep each night. Adequate sleep helps rejuvenate the body and is crucial for cognitive function and emotional stability. Individuals who prioritize sleep often experience improved concentration during the day and better mood regulation. Moreover, consistent sleep patterns can enhance overall productivity by allowing the brain to rest and recover effectively.
I: Interaction- Interaction with people plays a vital role in our well-being. Ng highlights the importance of engaging in conversations and nurturing relationships with others. Building connections can provide emotional support and enhance feelings of belonging. Participating in several group activities like joining a book club or a painting class or simply having regular chats with friends can boost happiness levels. Furthermore, meaningful interactions can stimulate mental sharpness as discussions often involve sharing ideas and experiences.
E: Exercise- Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining health as we age. Ng incorporates various forms of exercise into his routine such as playing tennis, walking while golfing, swimming, and gardening. Exercise helps in improving cardiovascular health while enhancing muscle strength and flexibility. Daily walks improve stamina, while activities like gardening offers physical exercise as well as mental relaxation through the interaction with nature.
L: Learn- Another pillar in Ng's health philosophy is lifelong learning. He believes that continuing learning at even an older age keeps the mind active and engaged. Ng gives the example of how he is currently learning video editing. Learning new skills helps in maintaining flexibility in life as the world is constantly changing, and it aids in person's development.
D: Diet- According to Ng's formula, a well-balanced diet is required for good health. He advises moderating carbohydrate intake while focusing on low sugar consumption and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. This keeps energy levels in check while avoiding chronic diseases due to unhealthy eating habits. Consuming healthy fruits and vegetables ensures that there is an adequate amount of vitamins and antioxidants in the diet for healthy living.
Ng Kok Song's SHIELD formula offers practical guidance for improving health as people age. With the right mindset and habits, one can dance through life with energy and enthusiasm and literally 'shield' themselves from harm.
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Top Comment
D
Dr Badrinath
119 days ago
Although a well known wisdom, the acronym is pretty catchy! Practising this diligently at any phase in life is indeed a big “plus” for health and longevity.Read allPost comment
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