The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly: Life Wisdom from Someone Who Will (Probably) Die Before You by Margareta Magnusson

"...a book of humorous and charming advice for embracing life and aging joyfully."

Synopsis - 

In her international bestseller The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning Margareta Magnusson introduced the world to the Swedish tradition of döstädning, or “death cleaning”—clearing out your unnecessary belongings so others don’t have to do it for you. Now, unburdened by (literal and emotional) baggage, Magnusson is able to focus on what makes each day worth living. In her new book she reveals her discoveries about aging—some difficult to accept, many rather wondrous. She reflects on her idyllic childhood on the west coast of Sweden, the fullness of her life with her husband and five children, and learning how to live alone. Throughout, she offers advice on how to age gracefully, such as: wear stripes, don’t resist new technology, let go of what doesn’t matter, and more.

As with death cleaning, it’s never too early to begin. The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly shows all readers how to prepare for and understand the process of growing older and the joys and sorrows it can bring. While Magnusson still recommends decluttering (your loved ones will thank you!), her ultimate message is that we should not live in fear of death but rather focus on appreciating beauty, connecting with our loved ones, and enjoying our time together.

Wise, funny, and eminently practical, The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly is a gentle and welcome reminder that, no matter your age, there are always fresh discoveries ahead, and pleasures both new and familiar to be encountered every day.

The Gentle Art Of Swedish Death Cleaning

Official Trailer | Peacock Original

Review -

Before I start, I have to admit that while I had heard of The Swedish Art of Death Cleaning, I haven't read it yet.  Why did I decide to start with this authors second book? I can only say it as on a whim.  A connection of mine on social media shared how much she loved it and I decided to grab my copy that very moment. 

This is a shorter book - only 154 pages - with an intimate feel. The author writes as if you are both sitting at a table in her kitchen while she shares stories from her life along with thoughts about aging and parenting.  It's not really a how to age exuberantly book. It is more a look at her life both current and past paired with personal reflections.  It's an easy read with moments of humor and challenges shared side by side. Magnusson moves easily between the past and present, alternating regularly. 

While the book did not really focus in tight on the how-to's of aging, she offered ideas regularly actions that can help you age in a more positive way. I enjoyed this book perhaps partly because I am now considered a senior and the author is more than a decade ahead of me. I was intrigued to see how she worked to stay relevant and inspired creatively as the limitations that come with aging made themselves felt. 

Buy the Book: Amazon US ~ Amazon CA ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Indigo


Meet the Author -

Margareta Magnusson says she is "somewhere between 80 and 100 years old." She was born in Gothenburg, Sweden, on New Year’s Eve, and graduated from Beckman’s College of Design in Stockholm. After working as a fashion and advertisement designer, she embarked on a career as a painter. Her first solo exhibition was held in Gothenburg in 1979. Later, she exhibited in Stockolm, Singapore, and Hong Kong, and widely around Sweden. She has moved house 17 times within Sweden and abroad with husband and 5 children in tow, which is why she says, ‘I should know what I am talking about when it comes to deciding what to keep and what to throw away’. She is the author of The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning and The Swedish Art of Aging Well.

Connect with the Author: Website ~ Instagram ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads