1. Exercise
You've probably heard it before, but exercising is extremely beneficial for physical and mental well-being. Exercising regularly has been shown to lower your risk of cancer and heart disease, improve sleep and boost mood. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, adults should get 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate-intensity or 1.25 to 2.5 hours of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise a week. Aerobic exercise can include:- Walking
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Using an elliptical trainer
- Dancing
If you're an older adult, focusing on balance exercises can help reduce the probability of slips and falls and help you feel more confident when walking.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
The food you eat directly affects how you feel, which is why it's so important to eat a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, protein and fibre. This doesn't mean that you can never indulge in a sweet treat or dessert, but make sure it's in moderation. Try to stay away from eating too many processed foods, saturated fats or refined sugars, as these can raise your risk of diabetes and promote inflammation.Adding supplements to your diet is another great way to get in some extra vitamins and minerals that you aren't getting from your diet. Whether you're looking to target a specific health concern or you just want to support your overall health, there's a supplement that best fits your needs. CBD oil is a great option for older adults, as it's been shown to:
- Relieve arthritis pain and chronic pain
- Reduce inflammation
- Improve sleep
- Reduce symptoms related to Alzheimer's disease
- Heal fractures and support healthier bones
- Fight glaucoma
- Stimulate appetite
3. Engage in a Hobby
Did you know that people who engage in hobbies are happier and tend to live longer? Not only are hobbies a great way to express your creativity and passion, but they can allow you to maintain a sense of purpose and give you something to look forward to every day.Whether you decide to pick up a musical instrument, follow a new recipe or complete a challenging crossword puzzle, finding a creative outlet can improve your well-being and make you feel more relaxed.
4. Practice Meditation
Meditation is an ancient practice that's been shown to have a plethora of benefits for physical and mental health. Not only can it boost your mood, but it can also help you manage chronic pain, lower stress levels and strengthen your immune system.The great news about meditation is that you can practice it wherever you are, unlike other activities that may require equipment or space. Simply taking 30 minutes out of your day to meditate is enough to reap its many benefits.
5. Listen to Your Favorite Music
Not only can put on your favourite tunes make you feel younger by bringing back memories from your teens or 20s, but it can also boost your mood. Listening to music releases dopamine in the brain, which is the happy chemical that's associated with pleasurable sensations. The next time you're feeling down, try dancing to one of your favourite songs!6. Volunteer
Although it may seem counterintuitive, one of the best ways to feel better about yourself is to help others. In fact, a study published in Psychology and Aging discovered that volunteering for at least 200 hours resulted in an increase in participants' mental well-being, physical activity and self-esteem. This is because extending a helping hand can give you a sense of purpose and fulfilment.Ageing gracefully doesn't have anything to do with looking young. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and engaging in activities that make you happy can help you live your best life and feel young as you begin to age.
