Age Gracefully
Fear not, aging is inevitable and should be something we look forward to, not dread. That was the topic of last week’s column.
There are many experiences that we can look forward to in our later years. My parents set a great example of aging gracefully, but it didn’t come easy. I have admired their commitment to health and wellness and their determination to grow in their relationship with one another.
They read, play, vacation and take time to quiet the mind—all in the spirit of living long and living well. Conversely, if one has not prepared physically, spiritually, mentally and emotionally for what lies ahead, it may not go so well and as a result may not be an enjoyable time.
Don’t doubt the possibilities, because it’s never too late. Although there are many factors that bring worry as we grow older, there are just as many ways to rejuvenate your body and mind as you age.
Life can take its toll on our body and mind. Some factors that contribute to aging range from hormone changes, living a sedentary lifestyle and stress. Although we may have only clocked up a certain amount of biological years, these factors can actually add on more years, making us look and feel much older than we actually are. Want to take years off?
With the help of one of my favorite website—allwomenstalk.com—I have researched several ways that will help slow the clock and rejuvenate your body.
Avoid the 3 S’s
Smoking, Stress and Sun
Sound easy? Probably not for some. Still, smoking cigarettes is harmful and although it can be difficult to quit, the reasons to give up far outweigh the reasons to light up. Smoking breaks down collagen and reduces the circulation to the skin, giving you a grey pallor. One more reason to quit.
Stress has been linked to weight gain and other health problems. Try to reduce stress by exercising and spending time nurturing your creative talents.
Too much exposure to the sun is going to lead to wrinkles. If you spend time outside – do it early in the morning or late in the afternoon and slap on the sun protection.
Eat Brain Food
Remember, we are what we eat and what we put in our stomachs can have a direct effect on our minds. Try the Mediterranean diet and more vitamin B. Both have been linked with lowering the risk of dementia. According to cardiologist, Dr Aseem Malhotra, “the evidence base for the Mediterranean diet in preventing all of the chronic diseases plaguing the western world is overwhelming.” So stock up on the fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts and of course, olive oil.
Play Games
We all know how important it is to be physically active but our brains need a regular work out too. There are a plethora of brain training games that have been created over the past few years. Although the jury is still out in terms of whether they actually improve cognitive function, there are many other ways you can exercise your brain.
Just go to the app store on your phone. I recently uploaded a mapping game to polish up on my geography skills. I was hoping that the upload itself would help. Turns out it’s best to actually interact with the game.
Try Something New
Being open to new experiences and having a youthful attitude is guaranteed to make you feel great. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new each week. This doesn’t have to be anything labor intensive but could be something as simple as trying out a new recipe or watching a film you wouldn’t normally consider your ‘cup of tea’.
Of course, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you may want to do something a little more radical and sky dive or buckle up to a zip line.
Save Your Skin
Finding the right skin care will make you look and feel years younger. Cleansing and moisturizing one time a day is key, as is weekly exfoliating and monthly facials for a real treat. Use a serum at night containing retinoid as this has also been proven to be anti-aging.
According to dermatologist Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, “they are a powerful anti-aging ingredient.” Also, think about skin supplements such as co-enzyme Q10 and omega 3’s which have been credited with fighting wrinkles.
Be Socially Diverse
Take a minute to look at your social circle. Do you have friends from a range of professions and ages? Mixing it up can make you feel open-minded and keep you interested in life and all it has to offer. Consider throwing a party and inviting the neighbors or joining a local club.
I had the privilege of playing bridge with some of Monticello’s finest matriarchs. It was a learning experience on many levels. Because we have all had different experiences, our knowledge ray expands in various directions. Diversifying your circle will expose you to a deeper love and understanding of yourself and others.
Give It Away
I know your time is valuable—but nothing feels more amazing than giving it away so that those in your community and in your world can benefit. Volunteering will introduce you to a range of people and make you feel as though you’re making a valuable contribution to society, which has been proven to improve mental and physical health.
According to researcher Hannah Schreier, of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, “people who volunteer show an increase in empathy, altruistic behavior, mental health and cardiovascular health.”
Move It
Start or continue an exercise regimen. You didn’t really think you would get out of this one, did you? You should be exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week. This doesn’t mean you have to be sweating it out at the gym. There are hundreds of ways to stay active. Not sure about where to start? Read the last 150 articles in The Monticello News archives.
Finally, one of the best pieces of advice shared with me that can be applied to almost any situation, was to “show up, shut up and let go.” My interpretation, as it relates to the inevitability of aging, is to make healthy choices, embrace the change—then let it go.
Questions or comments email: suzannemcginnis@me.com