Healthy Aging

The never-ending search for the Fountain of Youth may be as old as humanity… dating back to when we first emerged on our planet.

But why are we so preoccupied with holding on to our youth? Is it the decline of influence and power that accompanies aging? Or is it the discomfort we feel about the unknown territory ahead?

Regardless of the reason, both men and women look for ways to hold on to their youth, looking for remedies to make they look and feel younger. Sadly, many choose medical interventions when they could reach for less invasive and healthier alternatives.

While not as dramatic as procedures, there are many natural alternatives to help you look and feel younger. You don’t need to go for Botox injections or more invasive procedures like liposuction or even a facelift.

Here are five gentler ways to help you look and feel younger than you really are. Work toward integrating them into your daily routine and see for yourself what a difference they can make.

#1 – Regular Exercise

Few things are more beneficial to your overall health than regular exercise. Pick an activity you enjoy and can commit to for the long run. Regardless of the exercise you choose, moving your bones can “roll-back” years from your body and mind.

Exercise increases blood flow to every part of your body. It will keep you strong and flexible and your mind alert and sharp. Commit to regular exercise and prepare to be amazed by the results.

#2 – Manage Your Stress

Some degree of stress is a normal part of life. In a way, you might even say stress is positive; it’s healthy. It keeps you functioning at your best, helps you grow and reach for new heights.

But of course, that’s not the kind of stress we’re talking about; we’re concerned with negative stress. It’s the stress that works against you and over time will take a toll on your health.

Whatever the cause of stress in your life, don’t allow it to control you. Take steps to manage and reduce stress to a reasonable level.

You can do that in a number of ways. Engaging in ongoing exercise is your first step in controlling stress in your life. Additionally, consider taking up stress-busting activities like meditation, hypnosis, Tai Qi, Qi Gong, Yoga… to name a few.

And of course, if at all possible, go after the source of stress and get rid of it.

#3 – Improve Your Sleep

Most of us take sleep for granted until there is a problem. That’s when we realize how important it is.

When you’re younger, it’s much easier to cheat sleep and get away with it. But as you get older, the lack of sleep catches up with you; you look and feel tired and sprout bags below your eyes.

But when you get enough quality sleep, your face won’t show as many lines, and your eyes won’t be as puffy. As a bonus, getting proper rest has you feeling and functioning at your best.

So, if you’re dealing with interruptions in your sleep, start by tightening up your evening routine. Stop watching TV or stop looking at your phone or iPad one to two hours before turning off your lights.

Also, try to go to bed around the same time each night. While this may not always be possible, try to stick to a window of time you go to sleep each night.

Additionally, try drinking a cup of herbal tea or taking a supplement to help you get better sleep.

#4 – Improve Your Diet

Here’s a famous quote: “You are what you eat.” In other words, if the food you eat is of low quality, don’t expect to feel great or stay in top form.

Also, our metabolism slows down as we get older, making it easy to put on too much weight. Eating better quality food and less junk food helps you keep your weight on track and your body healthy.

Make it a point to eat as fresh as you can… fresh vegetables and fruits, avoiding processed foods. If possible, eat organic. Stay away from sugar, too much caffeine, and avoid refined foods.

By making these adjustments, you’re off to a good start, keeping your body healthy and your mind sharp.

#5 – Ditch Bad Habits

If you smoke… stop. Note, it’s not smoke less, but it is “stop smoking!”

It’s bad for you no matter how you look at it. Smoking ages your body, giving you a leathered look. Never mind what it’s doing to your lungs or the rest of your body.

If you drink too much alcohol, cut down on the amount you drink.

While there may be some health benefits to drinking alcohol, they are lost when consuming too much. Drinking too much alcohol can damage the liver, negatively impact the brain, decrease immunity, lead to malnutrition, and decrease overall health.

If you drink too much, and you know if you do, cut down or stop altogether.

In Summary

Implementing the suggestions above will help you look and feel younger. But here’s one more thing you can do…

Improve your outlook and your attitude!

Try to adopt and then maintain a positive outlook and attitude. Take responsibility for your actions and your life. Do your best to greet life with open arms, ready to learn and grow.

When you change your attitude, not only do you impact the people around you, but you also change how you respond, and how you feel about yourself.