Living Well Into Our Older Years

healthybygeorge

I'm Mary Catherine George, PhD (MC), a dedicated health and well-being coach with over 20 years of experience in medical research. Through my journey of overcoming the challenges of aging and maintaining a healthy mind, body, and spirit, I’ve learned what it takes to create a vibrant and sustainable life. Now, I’m here to share those lessons with YOU! Healthy by George is all about helping individuals in their 40s, 50s, and beyond take control of their health and live their best lives. Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, balance nutrition,or nurture your mental and emotional well-being, this channel will provide the practical advice, motivation, and inspiration you need. 💪 Join me for health tips,fitness challenges,nutrition insights, and more as we work together to achieve sustainable health and well-being. Let's embark on this empowering journey toward a better, healthier YOU!🌱 Don’t forget to subscribe, and let’s thrive together! www.healthybygeorge.com

  1. 8h ago

    The Movement Secret Neurologists Don’t Talk About

    Qigong for Healthy Aging: Calm Your Nervous System, Sleep Deeper, and Support Vagal Tone After noticing Qigong classes at work and hearing a science-minded colleague say it calms her nervous system like nothing else, the host begins exploring this ancient Chinese movement practice to address chronic low-grade stress, poor sleep, and aging concerns. He explains Qigong as slow intentional movement combined with rhythmic breathing and meditative awareness, and connects its effects to the autonomic nervous system, the HPA axis, cortisol, and the vagus nerve. He describes how extended exhales can stimulate the parasympathetic system and improve vagal tone, which declines with age and is linked to inflammation and cognitive decline. Citing recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses, he notes reported benefits for stress reduction, clinically meaningful sleep improvements, cognitive function, and reduced frailty, while emphasizing it complements—rather than replaces—resistance training. Use Qigong for healthy aging to maintain vitality as you get older. Learn how to treat your body like a garden to stay active and mobile. This guide explores simple, holistic wellness practices designed for older adults who want to improve their daily movement. We focus on gentle Qigong for healthy aging techniques and effective stretching routines that you can easily perform in your own living room. Whether you are looking to increase flexibility or support long-term physical health, these routines offer a practical approach to maintaining your well-being. Aging is a garden that requires consistent care and attention. By integrating these holistic wellness habits, you can support your body through the natural aging process. We look at how consistent movement, such as yoga and Qigong, impacts your physical state and longevity. This video is for anyone seeking sustainable, low-impact ways to nurture their body and improve their quality of life. Subscribe for weekly healthy aging breakdowns, and comment below with which stretching routine you want to see next. 00:00 Curious Discovery 01:09 Why I Need It 02:41 Qigong Basics 05:11 Aging Nervous System 06:05 HPA Axis Stress 08:49 Vagus Nerve Power 10:37 How Qigong Helps 11:50 Research On Benefits 14:49 Frailty And Strength 16:09 How To Practice 17:45 Garden View Of Aging 19:04 Beginner Invitation 19:25 Final Sendoff 📥 FREE DOWNLOAD: Your Health Change Navigation Guide A beautiful 2-page printable with the Three Questions, your Navigation Team roles, trusted health resources, and more. → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/shop 💌 JOIN GLOWUP — Dr. George's free newsletter on healthy aging, mindfulness & intentional living: → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/#news... 🎙️ ABOUT DR. MARY CATHERINE GEORGE: Dr. Mary Catherine George (MM PhD) is a health psychologist and Director of Clinical Research at a major academic medical center in NYC. She is the host of Healthy by George — a YouTube channel dedicated to intentional healthy aging, where science meets soul. She is also a classically trained singer, former improv performer, and the creator of GlowUp, a newsletter on healthy aging and mindful living. 📲 CONNECT WITH DR. GEORGE: YouTube: @HealthyByGeorge Newsletter Website: https://www.healthybygeorge.com/ ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical guidance.

    21 min
  2. 4d ago

    Your Hearing Loss Is Stealing Your Memory | Here’s Why

    Protect Your Hearing as You Age: Brain Health, Dementia Risk & What to Do Now Health psychologist MC shares her family experience with hereditary hearing loss and explains why hearing loss is common with aging and affects not just the ears but the brain, mood, and relationships, including links to isolation, depression, and cognitive decline. She cites statistics on prevalence and highlights research from the 2024 Lancet Commission and a large Danish study showing increased dementia risk, then outlines evidence-based steps to protect hearing: reduce noise exposure (including earplugs and the 60/60 headphone rule), stay physically active to support blood flow, eat a nutrient-rich diet (omega-3s, folate, beta carotene, magnesium) from whole foods, manage blood pressure and blood sugar, and get annual hearing tests. She also notes new AirPods Pro 2 hearing health features and the NIH-funded ACHIEVE trial finding hearing aids slowed cognitive decline and reduced loneliness. Join us as we explore crucial health topics, featuring global statistics and discussions on personal well-being. This video offers valuable wellness tips and doctor advice to support your journey towards healthy aging and longevity. We emphasize proactive self improvement to enhance your overall quality of life. Our latest video, presented by a medical doctor, dives into crucial healthcare topics, offering essential health tips for everyone. We explore various aspects of the human body and provide valuable nursing education, ensuring you have the knowledge to maintain optimal well-being. This information is designed to support your journey towards a healthier life. 00:00 Why Hearing Loss Matters 02:03 How Common It Is 03:17 Sneaky Early Signs 04:14 Brain And Dementia Link 06:54 Isolation And Mood Effects 08:22 Protect From Loud Noise 12:46 Exercise For Ear Bloodflow 14:24 Nutrition That Protects 17:25 Blood Pressure And Sugar 19:04 Tests And New Tech 20:17 Hearing Aids Slow Decline 22:11 Final Takeaways And Next Steps 📥 FREE DOWNLOAD: Your Health Change Navigation Guide A beautiful 2-page printable with the Three Questions, your Navigation Team roles, trusted health resources, and more. → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/shop 💌 JOIN GLOWUP — Dr. George's free newsletter on healthy aging, mindfulness & intentional living: → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/#news... 🎙️ ABOUT DR. MARY CATHERINE GEORGE: Dr. Mary Catherine George (MM PhD) is a health psychologist and Director of Clinical Research at a major academic medical center in NYC. She is the host of Healthy by George — a YouTube channel dedicated to intentional healthy aging, where science meets soul. She is also a classically trained singer, former improv performer, and the creator of GlowUp, a newsletter on healthy aging and mindful living. 📲 CONNECT WITH DR. GEORGE: YouTube: @HealthyByGeorge Newsletter Website: https://www.healthybygeorge.com/ ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical guidance.

    24 min
  3. Jun 5

    These Eye Exercises Won’t Cure Everything—But They Help

    Can Yoga Help Aging Eyes? What Research Says About Glaucoma, Dry Eye & Eye StrainMC, a health psychologist and researcher, discusses common age-related vision changes—presbyopia, dry eye, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration—emphasizing regular eye exams and early detection. She explains that yoga and eye exercises cannot reverse presbyopia or cure structural eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal conditions, but research suggests yoga may serve as a complementary approach, especially for glaucoma via stress reduction and improved vascular regulation. She cites studies showing yoga-based interventions (breathing, gazing) can reduce intraocular pressure and improve visual field measures, and that eye exercises may improve functional near-vision performance and reduce eye strain without changing prescriptions. Techniques covered include Trataka (with cautions), palming, structured eye movements, and pranayama (slow exhale, alternate-nostril breathing), alongside general wellness and medical guidance. In this video, we explore aspects of eye health and the importance of regular eye exams for maintaining clear vision. Focusing on healthy aging, we discuss how these practices contribute to overall longevity and personal health and wellness. Join us to learn more about keeping your eyes healthy for a longer, more fulfilling life. Our vision is an essential part of overall health and wellness, and regular eye exams are vital for maintaining good eye health. Understanding optometry can help you proactively manage your medical needs as you focus on healthy aging. Remember to prioritize your vision for a brighter future. 00:00 Aging Eyes Wake Up Call 02:50 What Changes With Age 04:58 Dry Eye And Other Risks 08:37 What Yoga Cannot Fix 11:23 Yoga Research For Glaucoma 13:48 Presbyopia And Brain Training 15:17 Dry Eye Trataka Basics 16:25 Eye Yoga Techniques Guide 19:14 Palming For Eye Rest 21:09 Eye Movements Routine 22:41 Breathing For Eye Pressure 24:26 Putting It All Together 27:39 Final Takeaways And Goodbye 📥 FREE DOWNLOAD: Your Health Change Navigation Guide A beautiful 2-page printable with the Three Questions, your Navigation Team roles, trusted health resources, and more. → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/shop 💌 JOIN GLOWUP — Dr. George's free newsletter on healthy aging, mindfulness & intentional living: → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/#news... 🎙️ ABOUT DR. MARY CATHERINE GEORGE: Dr. Mary Catherine George (MM PhD) is a health psychologist and Director of Clinical Research at a major academic medical center in NYC. She is the host of Healthy by George — a YouTube channel dedicated to intentional healthy aging, where science meets soul. She is also a classically trained singer, former improv performer, and the creator of GlowUp, a newsletter on healthy aging and mindful living. 📲 CONNECT WITH DR. GEORGE: YouTube: @HealthyByGeorge Newsletter Website: https://www.healthybygeorge.com/ ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical guidance.

    29 min
  4. Jun 2

    What Happens When You Follow Medical Advice? | Real Results

    Why Men Avoid the Doctor: Prostate, Testosterone, and Getting Him to Book the Appointment The host and nurse practitioner Mary Katherine discuss why many men avoid medical care—citing a study where 72% of surveyed men would rather clean toilets than see a doctor—and how women can encourage partners and family members to prioritize checkups. They compare how women are socialized into healthcare earlier, while men often delay visits until marriage or symptoms become severe, and note men may minimize or struggle to communicate symptoms. The conversation covers common midlife issues including weight gain, diabetes denial, benign prostatic hypertrophy (urinary frequency/nocturia, weak stream), the need for prostate cancer screening before certain BPH medicines, and testosterone decline affecting erections, fatigue, metabolism, and bone health. They emphasize baseline physicals (BP, labs, cholesterol, liver enzymes, thyroid, possible EKG), morning testosterone testing, lifestyle changes, avoiding unregulated OTC supplements, and establishing a trusted primary care relationship despite access barriers. Building a life that truly serves you involves a journey of self improvement and personal development. It's about cultivating a strong mindset and embracing wellness tips to foster genuine happiness. Your past experiences act as your compass, guiding you toward a fulfilling existence and healthy aging. 00:00 Why Men Avoid Doctors 01:11 Healthcare Socialization Gap 03:07 Wellness vs Illness System 06:30 Prostate Changes and Urinary Signs 09:47 Testosterone Symptoms and Testing 11:40 Lifestyle Fixes and Scam Supplements 13:58 Safe ED Meds and Heart Risks 15:13 When Men Should Get Checkups 18:23 Finding Primary Care Access 20:50 Partner Support and Takeaways 22:21 Wrap Up and Subscribe 📥 FREE DOWNLOAD: Your Health Change Navigation Guide A beautiful 2-page printable with the Three Questions, your Navigation Team roles, trusted health resources, and more. → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/shop 💌 JOIN GLOWUP — Dr. George's free newsletter on healthy aging, mindfulness & intentional living: → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/#news... 🎙️ ABOUT DR. MARY CATHERINE GEORGE: Dr. Mary Catherine George (MM PhD) is a health psychologist and Director of Clinical Research at a major academic medical center in NYC. She is the host of Healthy by George — a YouTube channel dedicated to intentional healthy aging, where science meets soul. She is also a classically trained singer, former improv performer, and the creator of GlowUp, a newsletter on healthy aging and mindful living. 📲 CONNECT WITH DR. GEORGE: YouTube: @HealthyByGeorge Newsletter Website: https://www.healthybygeorge.com/ ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical guidance.

    24 min
  5. May 29

    I Stayed on GLP-1 Despite Heartburn, Plateaus & Constipation—Here’s Why

    When the life you're living stops serving you, it's time for self improvement and personal development. This isn't about dramatic changes — it's about cultivating a strong mindset and discipline to create a life that feels good. Your decades of lived experience are your compass for personal growth and finding genuine fulfillment. When the life you're living stops serving you, it's time for some self improvement and a shift in your mindset. This isn't about dramatic changes, but about finding discipline and knowing what brings you genuine fulfillment. Your decades of lived experience are your compass for personal development and making positive life changes. Building a life that truly serves you involves a journey of self improvement and personal development. It's about cultivating a strong mindset and embracing wellness tips to foster genuine happiness. Your past experiences act as your compass, guiding you toward a fulfilling existence. Subscribe: https://youtube.com/@healthybygeorge3425 Instagram: https://instagram.com/myhealthybygeorge TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@healthybygeorge 📥 FREE DOWNLOAD: Your Health Change Navigation Guide A beautiful 2-page printable with the Three Questions, your Navigation Team roles, trusted health resources, and more. → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/shop💌 JOIN GLOWUP — Dr. George's free newsletter on healthy aging, mindfulness & intentional living: → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/#news...🎙️ ABOUT DR. MARY CATHERINE GEORGE: Dr. Mary Catherine George (MM PhD) is a health psychologist and Director of Clinical Research at a major academic medical center in NYC. She is the host of Healthy by George — a YouTube channel dedicated to intentional healthy aging, where science meets soul. She is also a classically trained singer, former improv performer, and the creator of GlowUp, a newsletter on healthy aging and mindful living.📲 CONNECT WITH DR. GEORGE: YouTube: @HealthyByGeorge Newsletter Website: https://www.healthybygeorge.com/⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical guidance.

    19 min
  6. May 25

    The One Thing You’re Not Doing to Live a Longer Life

    The Science of Silence: How Quiet Heals Stress, Boosts Creativity, and Protects Your Brain as You Age Dr. Mary Catherine George explores why silence is powerful, especially in a world engineered for constant noise and stimulation. Drawing on research, she explains how chronic sound activates the HPA axis, raises cortisol, and contributes over time to inflammation, high blood pressure, damaged blood vessels, and increased risk of heart disease and stroke, with the WHO ranking environmental noise as a major health stressor. She shares findings that even two minutes of silence can lower cortisol and improve cardiovascular relaxation more than soothing music, shift brainwaves toward calmer, more creative states, and that longer periods of silence may stimulate new cell growth in the hippocampus. The episode also links chosen boredom and the brain’s default mode network to insight and creativity, and invites listeners to practice small pockets of daily quiet to support memory, anxiety, resilience, and aging well. Our modern lives are often consumed by the constant hum of the digital interface, leading to widespread digital addiction. This video explores the benefits of a digital declutter, emphasizing the power of silence in reclaiming our mental space. Consider a smartphone detox or social media detox to improve your well-being. 00:00 A Moment of Silence 01:37 Why Silence Matters 03:30 Noise Is Making Us Sick 06:25 The Science Surprise 07:54 Silence Heals the Body 08:35 Brainwaves and New Neurons 11:15 Boredom Sparks Creativity 15:58 Why We Avoid Quiet 19:13 What Silence Feels Like 21:39 Silence and Aging Well 23:04 Try This This Week 24:38 Closing Thoughts and Goodbye 📥 FREE DOWNLOAD: Your Health Change Navigation Guide A beautiful 2-page printable with the Three Questions, your Navigation Team roles, trusted health resources, and more. → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/shop 💌 JOIN GLOWUP — Dr. George's free newsletter on healthy aging, mindfulness & intentional living: → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/#news... 🎙️ ABOUT DR. MARY CATHERINE GEORGE: Dr. Mary Catherine George (MM PhD) is a health psychologist and Director of Clinical Research at a major academic medical center in NYC. She is the host of Healthy by George — a YouTube channel dedicated to intentional healthy aging, where science meets soul. She is also a classically trained singer, former improv performer, and the creator of GlowUp, a newsletter on healthy aging and mindful living. 📲 CONNECT WITH DR. GEORGE: YouTube: @HealthyByGeorge Newsletter Website: https://www.healthybygeorge.com/ ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical guidance.

    26 min
  7. May 22

    Can You Afford to Retire? What Most People Get Wrong

    Retirement Anxiety, Financial Uncertainty, and the AI Economy (What the Research Says) A health psychologist and director of clinical research shares her growing uncertainty about whether she can retire in the next three to four years amid an unstable economy, rising costs, and rapid AI-driven change. She describes retirement anxiety as being fueled less by concrete facts than by not knowing what will happen with Social Security, Medicare, taxes, inflation, healthcare costs, and longevity, noting surveys and reports showing many older Americans are delaying retirement and many workers expect AI to transform work soon. She discusses the value of working with a fee-only financial planner, the risk of a post-retirement identity crisis for people strongly identified with their work, and reframing paralysis into possibility through shorter planning windows, mindfulness, and addressing avoidance. She emphasizes planning for meaning and purpose beyond work, staying curious, and building supportive teams. 00:00 Retirement Fear Confession 01:47 Why It Feels Uncertain 03:14 Retirement Anxiety Research 06:28 AI Economy Shockwaves 07:54 Start Planning Anyway 08:46 Money Questions and Advisors 10:02 Identity After Work 13:18 Hopeful Mindset Shift 16:52 Mindfulness for Anxiety 18:51 Meaning Purpose and Wrap 📥 FREE DOWNLOAD: Your Health Change Navigation Guide A beautiful 2-page printable with the Three Questions, your Navigation Team roles, trusted health resources, and more. → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/shop 💌 JOIN GLOWUP — Dr. George's free newsletter on healthy aging, mindfulness & intentional living: → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/#news... 🎙️ ABOUT DR. MARY CATHERINE GEORGE: Dr. Mary Catherine George (MM PhD) is a health psychologist and Director of Clinical Research at a major academic medical center in NYC. She is the host of Healthy by George — a YouTube channel dedicated to intentional healthy aging, where science meets soul. She is also a classically trained singer, former improv performer, and the creator of GlowUp, a newsletter on healthy aging and mindful living. 📲 CONNECT WITH DR. GEORGE: YouTube: @HealthyByGeorge Newsletter Website: https://www.healthybygeorge.com/ ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical guidance. #RetirementAnxiety #FinancialStress #RetirementPlanning #LongevityFear #MoneyWorry #FixedIncome #RetirementMindset

    23 min
  8. May 18

    Financial Stress Waking You Up at Night? Here’s Why

    Retirement Anxiety, Financial Stress & Aging: Reframing the Fear (A Health Psychologist’s Guide)Retirement Anxiety: Reframing Financial Stress, Longevity Fear, and Fixed-Income Worries Dr. Mary Catherine George, a health psychologist, shares how an upcoming retirement party triggered her own late-night anxiety about whether she can afford to retire in New York, where skilled living facilities can cost $7,000–$12,000 a month. She explains that financial stress in aging is widespread and often driven by uncertainty, citing a University of Michigan poll showing 53% of adults 50+ felt financial stress, over half cut back on daily expenses, and one in three fear their money won’t last; stress was highest among those ages 50–64 who haven’t decided to retire. She outlines three common forms of financial stress—fixed income amid rising costs, longevity anxiety, and life transitions like retirement or widowhood—and describes how chronic financial stress harms sleep, immunity, heart health, and cognition. She recommends reframing money worry, building financial literacy, getting specific with numbers, asking for help, and using mindfulness to regulate the nervous system, emphasizing that fear is not a financial plan. This video features a woman speaking directly to the camera, interspersed with scenes of people walking, a sunset with an outstretched hand, and volunteers serving food. It highlights the crucial role of a nonprofit organization and effective volunteer management in community efforts. The woman's expressions range from smiling to concerned, as she appears to be presenting information throughout the montage. 00:00 Retirement Math Panic 02:49 Reframing Money Fear 04:06 Financial Stress Data 06:21 Health Toll of Worry 08:03 Three Stress Patterns 12:27 Control and Mindset Shift 16:54 Get Specific With Numbers 18:26 Ask for Help 19:50 Calm the Nervous System 21:45 Nighttime Plan and Wrap Up 📥 FREE DOWNLOAD: Your Health Change Navigation Guide A beautiful 2-page printable with the Three Questions, your Navigation Team roles, trusted health resources, and more. → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/shop 💌 JOIN GLOWUP — Dr. George's free newsletter on healthy aging, mindfulness & intentional living: → https://www.healthybygeorge.com/#news... 🎙️ ABOUT DR. MARY CATHERINE GEORGE: Dr. Mary Catherine George (MM PhD) is a health psychologist and Director of Clinical Research at a major academic medical center in NYC. She is the host of Healthy by George — a YouTube channel dedicated to intentional healthy aging, where science meets soul. She is also a classically trained singer, former improv performer, and the creator of GlowUp, a newsletter on healthy aging and mindful living. 📲 CONNECT WITH DR. GEORGE: YouTube: @HealthyByGeorge Newsletter Website: https://www.healthybygeorge.com/ ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical guidance. #RetirementAnxiety #FinancialStress #RetirementPlanning #LongevityFear #MoneyWorry #FixedIncome #RetirementMindset

    25 min

About

I'm Mary Catherine George, PhD (MC), a dedicated health and well-being coach with over 20 years of experience in medical research. Through my journey of overcoming the challenges of aging and maintaining a healthy mind, body, and spirit, I’ve learned what it takes to create a vibrant and sustainable life. Now, I’m here to share those lessons with YOU! Healthy by George is all about helping individuals in their 40s, 50s, and beyond take control of their health and live their best lives. Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, balance nutrition,or nurture your mental and emotional well-being, this channel will provide the practical advice, motivation, and inspiration you need. 💪 Join me for health tips,fitness challenges,nutrition insights, and more as we work together to achieve sustainable health and well-being. Let's embark on this empowering journey toward a better, healthier YOU!🌱 Don’t forget to subscribe, and let’s thrive together! www.healthybygeorge.com