Are we ever too old to learn new habits? Healthy lifestyle habits can be fostered at any age. At 53yrs old I am more confident than my younger self and I am pushing myself to be a better version of myself. Along with some grey hair (conveniently covered with color by the experts at the salon), some fine lines (my addiction to Sephora and Ulta Beauty as well as my dermatologist helps conceal), I have gained some wisdom and some patience (my kids are my guiding torch, strength in mind and body to move more (I love my time to exercise), and I try to practice what I preach (sometimes successfully, sometimes not so much). I believe in a balance and that staying healthy, and healthy aging have some key components:
Sleep
Exercise
Managing stress
Avoiding toxins
Building social connections
Healthy eating
Sleep- It helps to wake and sleep on schedule every day. That can help keep your body clock in sync so you get the sleep you need.
Exercise- Aim for 30 minutes every day. Regular exercise (especially if you do it briskly enough to feel a little breathless) delivers huge health benefits. It helps keep brain cells healthy by delivering more blood and oxygen.
Stay connected- Loneliness is harmful to your health. Engage in activities with others that stimulate your mind. Book clubs, walks with friends and volunteering your time allows you to meet others who share your interests.
Eat whole foods- It’s more a way of eating than a formal diet. You load up on veggies, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and low-fat dairy. Eating this way allows you to eat less fatty meats, butter, sugar, salt, and packaged foods. And a healthy diet can physically change parts of your chromosomes linked to age-related diseases.
I believe that all of these components work together to allow us to age well. And this is how: if you sleep well you have more energy to exercise. If you have more energy, you exercise. If you sleep well and exercise, you have better self-esteem and you care about what you put into your body. When you're feeling good about yourself, eating and sleeping well and exercising, you're much more interested in socializing.
As we have learned this past year, staying on top of your physical and mental health is much more than getting care when you don’t feel good. Make sure to see your doctors for regular checkups (and don’t forget about your dentist and eye doctor).
As always, I am here to help get you on your right path to wellness!