The 93-Year-Old Psychiatrist Still Practicing: Secrets to a Long, Active Life
At 93 years old, Dr. Lee Si-hyeong continues to actively practice psychiatry, a remarkable feat that has led many to inquire about the secrets behind his enduring career and vitality. Dr. Lee recently shared his insights on the KBS 2TV program “Problem Child in House,” revealing a combination of mindful daily habits and a profound sense of personal responsibility.
One of the most striking aspects of Dr. Lee’s routine is his choice of transportation. He voluntarily relinquished his driver’s license at the age of 75, recognizing the natural decline in reflexes that accompanies aging. “It’s not just about my safety but everyone’s,” he explained, highlighting his commitment to public safety. This decision led him to embrace public transit, specifically the subway, as his primary mode of getting around.
While individuals aged 65 and older are entitled to free subway fares in many regions, Dr. Lee consistently opts to pay for his journeys. He articulated his reasoning with a strong sense of personal integrity: “Because I’m still active… I don’t want to owe anything to the country yet.” This sentiment was met with admiration from the show’s hosts, who praised his commendable mindset.
Further demonstrating his consideration for others, Dr. Lee also mentioned his practice of avoiding senior seating areas on public transport. He explained that he doesn’t want to create an uncomfortable situation for younger individuals who might feel obligated to offer their seat. This consideration underscores his awareness of social dynamics and his desire to navigate public spaces with grace and minimal imposition.
A Rigorous Daily Exercise Regimen
Central to Dr. Lee’s sustained health and energy is his disciplined daily exercise routine. He detailed a comprehensive program that begins immediately upon waking.
- Morning Exercise (30-40 minutes):
- Calisthenics
- Stretching
- Push-ups
- Squats
- Stepper exercises
- Concluding with light meditation
This structured morning workout sets a positive tone for the day and prepares his body and mind for the challenges ahead.
In addition to his morning routine, Dr. Lee incorporates significant physical activity into his evenings. He described his apartment complex as being quite large, allowing him to complete three laps of walking, which typically takes about 30 minutes. This evening walk serves as a crucial component of his overall fitness plan.
Crucially, Dr. Lee emphasizes the importance of consistency, even when traveling. He stated that he maintains this exercise regimen “wherever I am,” ensuring that his commitment to physical activity remains unwavering regardless of his location.
Dr. Lee firmly believes that the most effective approach to exercise is to integrate it seamlessly into one’s daily life. He articulated this philosophy by stating, “The best exercise is making your daily life itself a form of exercise. That’s the healthiest approach.” This perspective suggests a holistic view of health, where movement is not confined to specific workout times but is a continuous aspect of living.
Resilience Forged in Hardship
Remarkably, Dr. Lee claims to have not contracted a cold in the past 40 years. He attributes this exceptional immunity not to any specific medical intervention, but rather to his formative experiences. He explained that growing up in extreme poverty, under harsh environmental conditions, forged a strong and resilient constitution.
Reflecting on his youth, Dr. Lee recalled the outbreak of the Korean War during his first year of high school. He contrasted his upbringing with that of those born into more affluent circumstances. “You were born in a wealthy country, but I was born in a poor one,” he remarked. He believes that the inherent hardships and struggles of his early life served as a form of nourishment, paradoxically building within him a robust physical strength and an enduring capacity to withstand adversity. This perspective highlights a profound connection between past challenges and present-day resilience, suggesting that adversity can, under certain circumstances, contribute to long-term well-being.
