AGING GRACEFULLY: Redefining what we think about beauty and aging“Beautiful young people are accidents of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art.” (Eleanor Roosevelt)
Did you know that if you feel old, you will probably age faster? Aging is a hot topic, no matter the day or year. It is something most of us dread and from which many of us try to hide. But, you cannot outrun the years. If you are worried or stressed about getting older, it will reflect in your countenance.
Staying healthy and feeling your best is important no matter your age. While you may not always look and feel like a 20-year-old, there are things you can do to improve your mood and how you feel about yourself.
Healthy aging means embracing the opportunity to continually reinvent yourself. It opens doors to finding new things to enjoy. Yes, with aging comes anxiety and fear, but there are things you can do to mitigate the stress that comes with such anxieties. Below are a few tips to help you maintain your physical and emotional health, no matter your current age or circumstances.
Take care of your physical health.
Many people assume that as you age, you will just experience poor health or that you will succumb to any number of diseases. While growing older does mean certain diseases are more prevalent, it doesn’t mean you have to just wait for their arrival. Get up! Get out! Get going! Preventive measures such as healthy eating, exercising and managing stress can greatly mitigate your risk of chronic disease or injuries down the road.
Focus on things for which you are grateful.
Life becomes more precious as you age. You stop taking things for granted. Look around and count your blessings. A smile on your face is a great way to add more beauty to who you are.
Accept things you cannot change.
You cannot control everything in life. However, you can control your reaction to things that happen. Instead of seeing stumbling blocks, look for the stepping stones. Approaching things with a sense of humor helps, too!
Look for the silver lining.
Believe it or not, you can always find the good in even the most challenging and stressful of situations. You just have to know where to look. No matter what type of experiences you have – good or bad – view them as opportunities for personal growth.
Pick up a new hobby or learn something new
If you have always wanted to learn a musical instrument or speak another language, do it! Such activities not only add fun to your life and joy to your years, but they also aid in brain health and can prevent mental decline.
Get involved in your community
Volunteer for something that inspires you or moves you. Find a cause that is important to you, such as the fight against human trafficking. The meaning and purpose you find in helping others can greatly enrich your life beyond measure. Plus, volunteer work is a great way to use some of the skill sets you have acquired in life.
Remember! It is important to have a twinkle in your wrinkle!
Source: helpguide.org
