We quote many messages from the great scholars, like that while doing the Vaidik rituals, the priests quote the Ved Mantra as prayer. These Mantra are distributed as Sookt in Ved. Wherever the appropriate prayers are to be incorporated, respective Ved Mantra are chanted. This is written in special literature known as Braahman. Braahman contain Ved Mantra and descriptions / practice of Vaidik rituals. There are more than 18 Braahman available now (some are lost forever). These Braahman are distributed in the four + one Ved. They are not easy to understand for common men. Braahman are second level Vaidik literature containing both hymns and prose, meant for performing Vaidik rituals which can be understood only through commentaries or descriptions of scholars.

 Life can begin at 60, it is all in your hands!
S. Ramachandran - Courtesy The Hindu (with some modifications)

Many people feel unhappy, health-wise and security-wise, after 60 years of age owing to the diminishing importance given to them and their opinion. But it need not be so, if only we understand the basic principles of life and follow them scrupulously. Here are ten Mantra to age gracefully and make life after retirement pleasant.

1. Never say I am aged': There are three ages, chronological, biological, and psychological. The first is calculated based on our date of birth; the second is determined by the health conditions and the third is how old you feel you are. While we don't have control over the first, we can take care of our health with good diet, exercise and a cheerful attitude. A positive attitude and optimistic thinking can reverse the third age.

2. Health is wealth: If you really love your kith and kin, taking care of your health should be your priority. Thus, you will not be a burden to them. Go for long and brisk walks daily with  friends of your age group or join Yoga classes. Have an annual health check-up and take the prescribed medicines regularly. Oh! Yes, a little bit of moderation in your food intake will work wonders. Listen to your body. U are your own doctor when you reach 60. Do take health insurance cover.

3. Money is important: Money is essential for meeting the basic necessities of life, keeping good health and earning family respect and security. Do some prudent financial planning for yourself and your spouse to take care of your basic needs of today and tomorrow. Remember what you have saved today may not be enough five years down the road as inflation is galloping faster than your savings potential. Don' t spend beyond your means even for your children and never ever part with your hardened savings before your time is up. Yes, we know that your children are your darlings but when they grow up and get married the equations change, new priorities will emerge and values imbibed may be forgotten because of the influence of their spouses or for some other reason. If you have excess wealth distribute it among your kith and kin or donate for charitable causes but always ensure adequate monetary security for yourself and your spouse at all times. You have lived for your kith and kin all through and it is time you enjoyed a harmonious life with your spouse. If your children are grateful and they take care of you, you are blessed. But never take it for granted.

4. Relaxation and recreation: The most relaxing and recreating forces are a healthy religious attitude, good sleep, music and laughter. Have faith in God, learn to sleep well, love good music and see the funny side of life. Indulge in new hobbies - start painting, write poetry or stories, browse internet  or join a social service organization etc. Don't allow mental stagnation to creep in at any cost. Yes, it is true, as senior citizens, we often talk about the past and less about present; remember that adage "no fool is like an old fool" and don't fall into that trap.

5. Time is precious: It is almost like holding a horse's reins. When they are in your hands, you can control them. Imagine that everyday you are born again. Yesterday is a cancelled cheque. Tomorrow is a promissory note. Today is ready cash ­ use it profitably. Live this momentsiz.Down  size your desires and urge for new acquisitions. U may not require a new expensive gadget every time u see one, like a new car, LCD TV or a latest lap top after all. Remember that ur children have no value or regard for these soon to be obsolete things you have  left behind but only valuable assets  in cash and kind are prized by them.

6. Change is the only permanent thing: We should accept change  is inevitable and nothing is static  or permanent in this world. The only way to make sense out of change is to join the dance and go with the tide. Change has brought about many pleasant and not so pleasant things. Don't crib about generational changes and attitudes and make ur life and others miserable in that process.

7. Enlightened selfishness: All of us are basically selfish. Whatever we do, we expect something in return. We should definitely be grateful to those who stood by us. But our focus should be on the internal satisfaction and happiness we derive by doing good to others, without expecting anything in return.

8. Forget and forgive: Don't be bothered too much about others' mistakes. We are not spiritual enough to show our other cheek when we are slapped in one. But for the sake of our own health and happiness, let us forgive and forget them. Otherwise, we will be only increasing our BP and developing ulcers.

9. Everything has a purpose: Take life as it comes. Accept yourself as you are and also accept others for what they are. Everybody is unique and right in his own way.