Tips on How to Age With Ease
While the Fountain of Youth may be a myth, so is the idea that our bodies will inevitably degenerate as we age. Growing older is a part of life, but it doesn't have to be an inconvenient or painful part. While your genetic background may have some control on your path to aging, how you care for yourself now and throughout life will truly determine your health later.
Here are a few things you can do to keep yourself forever young:
Eat Well
If it isn't obvious by now, nutrition plays a key role in your overall health. Keeping yourself well nourished with fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals, will keep your body in fighting shape throughout your life. Make fresh, whole foods the primary source of your diet and imit your intake of unhealthy fats and processed foods or artificial ingredients. Pay attention to antioxidants which will neutralize free radicals that contribute to conditions related to aging. If you don't think you are getting enough antioxidants from dark vegetables and fruits such as berries, consider taking high quality supplements. Vitamin C, vitamin E are good ways to boost your antioxidant load.
Give your brain a work out
Keeping your body in shape won't do you any good if your mind is not in shape too. Challenging your brain can help prevent degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Exercising your brain is easier than you think. By simply becoming aware of your surroundings and taking notes on subtle changes to sounds and visuals will stimulate your brain. Continuing to educate yourself will also keep your brain in shape. Consider learning a new language or instrument, or reading daily to keep your mind active.
Exercise
Staying physically active is imperative for overall well being. Countless studies show that exercising reduces the effects of aging by warding off muscle weakness, increasing balance and bone density and well as keeping organs healthy. You don't have to become a slave to the gym to get exercise benefits. Choose activities that you enjoy like hiking, bike riding, or even dancing. The key is to keep your body agile throughout life.
Connect to Spirituality
Research suggests that being involved in spiritual or religious practices can have positive and stress reducing effects on your health. Spiritually active people may be happier and less depressed, as well as more social when they are actively involved in their respective beliefs. Medical research shows that a connection between body and spirit can bring about positive changes to the body. Simple actions such as meditation, prayer, and forgiveness can aid in adding years to your life.
Sleep
A majority of people are not getting the recommended eight hours of sleep every night. If you are one of these people, you may want to consider reworking your sleep schedule. Studies show that those who get less than six hours of sleep have higher risks of heart attacks and strokes as well as impaired mind function. If you are not sleeping enough you are more likely to be irritable and more susceptible to viral infections. Try getting to bed earlier and adopting relaxation exercises before bedtime, such as gentle yoga.
There is no magic pill to prevent aging, but caring for your body and mind while you're younger are the keys to a longer and more fulfilling life.
Speak to your doctor or primary care physician before starting new exercises or changing your diet.