1. REDUCE STRESS
A furrowed brow may become a wrinkle. Smoking, drinking and other unhealthy ways to cope with stress also take a heavy toll. Stress has many negative effects on our health too. High blood pressure, poor sleep, weight gain and loss. Fortunately, you can fight stress by meditation, exercise & preventative medicines. You can also keep your emotional habits healthy by practicing gratitude, self-care & keeping a healthy perspective.
2. GET PLENTY OF SLEEP
During sleep our skin cells build and repair themselves. Our cortisol (stress hormone) levels adjust and we feel renewed and rejuvenated. Practice good sleep habits by getting to bed at a consistent hour and aiming for uninterrupted sleep. Keep the room a little cooler and dark. Avoid electronics before bedtime which emit blue light disrupting sleep patterns.
3. EAT A BALANCED DIET
A balanced diet helps us ward off many aging-related effects. Getting proper nutrition also helps us prevent heart disease, diabetes and other illnesses. Lowering blood pressure prevents strokes. Nutrition also helps keep us mentally sharp and gives us more energy to enjoy activities.
4. HYDRATE
Our bodies are 50-60% water. Water flushes out toxins. Water aids in digestion. It helps us sleep better, focus better and even lose more weight. Water also helps us avoid dry, flaky skin and fine lines, which let’s face it, don’t help us look any younger.
5. REDUCE SODIUM
Once we reach a certain age, we may also notice an increase in our blood pressure. This leads to scary issues like hypertension and stroke. Decrease your sodium intake by using alternatives like spice, lemon and fresh herbs in foods. Watch for hidden sodium in processed foods such as canned goods, cereal, frozen convenience foods, deli meats and carbonated beverages.
6. LEARN SOMETHING NEW
One of the true secrets for staying sharp and young is to never stop learning. Life is full of chances to learn new skills, foster new talents and grow our abilities. Sign up for a community class. Look for a list of free online courses offered through many top universities (including Harvard, Berkeley and MIT). There are also tons of tutorials available on YouTube.
7. KEEP MOVING
Exercise keeps us young. In fact, moving more actually slows aging, plus,you’ll experience an increase in energy, flexibility and overall sense of well-being. Even as little as 20 minutes per day is good for you. Simply put on your shoes and go for a walk.
8. DRESS GRACEFULLY
Stay with fashion trend that are age-appropriate and still beautiful (and fun). Use accessories that are often timeless such as scarves, hats etc.
9. BE JOYFUL
The best way to age gracefully is to simply focus on happiness. What brings you the most satisfaction and joy? Discover those activities and incorporate them into your day as often as possible. We must learn to live in the moment. When we’re fully aware in the moment, we’re engaged, alive, connected to those around us and what’s happening in front of us. With the passage of time, we often gain perspective. We realize life is too short to sweat the small stuff. The times that truly matter are the joyful moments we spend with those we love.
10. LET GO
Probably the best advice on how to age gracefully is to simply let go of your control. Accept that your children have grown up & have a live of their own. Stop giving advice. Give them space & privacy that they need. Spend your time with grandchildren instead. You get more respect by keeping your mouth shut & minding your own business.