It's Graduation Time: Healthy Living Tips for Seniors
By Genevieve Cunningham
The end of spring and beginning of summer is such an exciting time for so many people. Vacations and time off and nights spent outdoors are certainly something to look forward to. But this time of year is probably the most exciting for those who will shortly walk across the stage and grab a diploma: seniors! Unfortunately, it’s also a time when many seniors change their habits and notice their health decline. To make sure that this significant change is also met with better health, take a look at these tips to incorporate right away.
Metabolism Slows Down With Age
Many high school seniors graduate feeling on top of the world. Many are surprised that their current health status changes rapidly after walking across the stage. In school, your metabolism likely ran like a freight train. You could eat whatever you wanted and that weight barely budged. Unfortunately, this is unlikely to continue, which often leads seniors to that dreaded freshmen 15 pounds. In order to counteract this normal happening, scale back on the calories and increase the activity level before you ever step foot on campus or on the job.
Life is Changing as You Know It
Along with physical health, this is a really important time in life to watch over mental health. Life, as you have always known it, is changing in a big way. Make sure to take time for yourself, spend time with loved ones, and always reach out if you’re feeling overwhelmed. The uneasiness of the big change will pass, but it’s OK if assistance is needed through the transition.
Indulgence is Best in Moderation
This tip can benefit both mental and physical well-being. Many teens tend to indulge quite a bit after graduation. Keep in mind that all things are best in moderation. If you feel that now is the time to experiment, that’s OK, but do so responsibly. Excessive alcohol use or drug use is bound to harm your health in multiple ways. Find healthier avenues to explore, be they new hobbies, trips across the country, or a complete overhaul in personal image. Keep moderation in mind, and you’re going to be much better off when the new rebellious stage passes.
Graduation from high school (or college or technical school or whatever!) is one of the most exciting times yet! Enjoy it, but keep in mind that your health will still matter in 10 or 15 years and beyond. Be smart, use these tips, and make this transition to adulthood healthy and successful.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.