Bodies age. That's just a fact. But there is no set deadline for the milestones of the aging process. Turning 65 doesn't mean you have to retire. Reaching 70 doesn't guarantee you less energy or broken bones. So, while aging isn't always fun, you don't have to resign yourself to sitting back and letting it take over.
There's a lot you can do to slow the aging process!
The Number One Best Way to Slow the Aging Process
Several studies have come to the same conclusion: if you want to slow the aging process, you've got to exercise. Although the exact best exercise regimen is up for debate, researchers have shown that high levels of physical activity cause the body to be better at making new proteins. Since reduced protein productions (scientifically: lower telomere length) is linked to aging, this is really important!
If you want to slow the aging process, high levels of exercise are the way to go. More than just going for walks now and then, you need to commit to exercise like jogging or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) multiple times a week.
Healthy Tips for Staying Young
On top of committing to real exercise, these tips can help slow aging, too.
Tip #1: Stay Active in General
An active lifestyle is about more than pre-planned workouts and reaching goals like running a marathon. Staying active looks like:
- Taking the stairs
- Cooking, cleaning, and socializing
- Taking care of the garden, lawn, etc.
- Going for walks
- Stretching
Even though these moves are only mild exercise, they help your heart and body stay primed and ready for life (which is the opposite of deteriorating AKA wasting away!)
Tip #2: Give Your Mind Workouts—and Rests
Staying sharp helps your brain take better care of your body for longer. It also improves memory and other cognitive functions that help you take care of yourself. Doing puzzles, learning new things, completing crosswords, and reading are all examples of working out your brain.
On the flip side, a mind that is never calm tends to lead to a body facing tension, high blood pressure, and disease. Learn to de-stress healthily so your brain can rest well and have the power to keep you feeling young.
Tip #3: Exercise Your Eyes and Ears
Like other parts of your body, your eyes and ears age, too. It's smart to keep these important sensory systems healthy as you grow older. Be sure to consult your doctor and get regular checkups on ear and eye health. Use glasses or hearing aids as prescribed.
Tip #4: Avoid These Aging Exacerbators
Remember, aging happens because the body deteriorates over time. But bodies age at different rates depending on what influences that deterioration. Avoid common accelerators of aging like:
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Stress
- Isolation
- Unmanaged disease
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Boredom
You can live a lifestyle that is full, vibrant, and fit for enjoying for many years to come. Get started implementing some of these tips in your own life today.
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