The process of growing old is not something most people look forward to, but it is a reality of life. Aging is bound to happen and cannot be avoided. However, it is not necessary to have a negative or sad outlook toward the process. 

Healthy aging is possible for each one of us. The key is to choose a positive attitude and enjoy every bit of growing old. The mentality we have towards aging is the deciding factor of our health and happiness in our golden years. Many studies have shown that being positive can help us feel younger longer and keep us healthy. 

Tips for Aging Well 

Researchers have revealed that people in certain parts of the world that live a longer life compared to others. These areas are collectively called the Blue Zone. They are Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Ikaria, Greece, and Loma Linda, California. The people in these zones have been found to follow a certain lifestyle that promotes healthy aging. Here are a few tips borrowed from these areas that each of us can follow:

Find a Purpose 

You might not be having an active work life after retirement, but that doesn’t mean your life doesn’t have purpose. Look for something you can do that keeps you excited to get out of bed each morning. When you have a purpose in life, you live longer and age gracefully. Find a new hobby that can keep you occupied without adding too much stress. People engaged in religious services or social welfare work are seen to be aging happily with a more positive outlook. 

Focus on Stress Reduction

It is not possible to escape negative or stressful experiences in life, but we can always make attempts at reducing unnecessary stressors, when possible. The negative impacts of stress are far-reaching and can affect overall health. Stress management can be done in several ways. Different people benefit from different techniques. Meditation, yoga, walking, group activities, breathing exercises, and reading are some common activities to indulge in for reducing stress levels. 

Be Socially Active

Isolation should be avoided at all costs. Connect with old friends, make new friends, meet people… whatever it takes to keep you socially engaged. Your physical and emotional well-being depend on maintaining regular social connections. It is always easier to go through the aging process with same-aged friends or partners. 

Eat Well

The first rule to follow is to stop eating before you feel full. The last meal of the day should be the smallest and should be completed in the early evening hours. Our digestion system becomes weaker with age. So, it is important to eat accordingly. Moving to a more plant-based diet will be helpful for easing digestive issues and allowing your body to absorb the most nutrients possible. Eat healthfully and eat enough to maintain energy and vitality. 

Be Physically Active

Exercise is recommended for people of all ages. It is the key to a healthy aging process. Regular exercise will keep the body posture intact, maintain bone and muscle strength, and boost your confidence levels. Consult a trainer or your physician to learn about the best type of exercise for your unique needs. Physical activity is beneficial to both the body and mind and should be something prioritized every day.

The joys of growing older are plentiful, if you only take the time to look. Adopt some of these healthy habits to make sure you continue to feel young, vibrant, and healthy for as long as possible. 

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