Healthy Aging

Healthy Aging

For those of us that are nearing or in retirement, healthy aging is certainly a concern. Listed below are 10 tips to stay healthy as we age. I borrowed the tips from an article in a recent issue of WebMD.

1. Embrace healthy thoughts – In my mind the number one tips to staying healthy is thinking happy thoughts – you are what you think about most the time. Embrace healthy thoughts to live longer.
2. Relaxation – Take 15 to 20 minutes per day out of your busy schedule to do a bit of meditation or relaxation exercises. Deep breathing and yoga helps to minimize stress.
3. Exercise – 20 minute walk each day will do the trick, averaging at least 6,000 to 10,000 steps per day is great exercise and will relieve stress as well. If you are younger than 50, try to set 10,000 steps as your minimum.
4. Create – learn a new skill such as a foreign language or new hobby to keep your mind active. You are never too old to learn.
5. Quit bad habits – If you smoke or drink to frequently, try getting down your alcohol intake and absolutely quit smoking today.
6. Be social – Stay friendly with friends and family to maintain good mental health. Less stress when you are on friendly terms with other family members.
7. Don’t take life so seriously – be forgiving and let go of resentment and hostilities.
8. Avoid loud noises – protect your ears by wearing ear plugs if you cannot avoid loud noises.
9. Avoid unprotected sunlight – avoid prolonged sun exposure with clothing and sun screen to protect your skin.
10. Medical checkups – don’t forget to visit your doctor and get the proper medical care you need including your shots.