Taking care of your physical and mental health is an excellent idea at any age, and it’s never too late to develop good habits. Research from Chan School of Public Health shows that people who stuck to healthy habits extended their life expectancy by 14 years. By focusing on a nutritious diet, exercise, and fulfilling activities, you can live happier and longer. Yogaaah lists six tips to try today.
1. Try a New Activity
Whether you’ve never found an exercise you enjoy, or you’re bored of the same routine, it may be time to try something new. As Yoga Journal shares, activities like yoga are low-impact with incredible benefits. Not only does yoga increase flexibility, but it also reduces anxiety and increases whole-body strength. You can sign up for in-person
Many people have trouble sticking to a routine because they attempt to do too much at one time. By following a reasonable schedule, you can prevent burnout and reap the benefits of consistent movement. Don’t stress and throw out your whole week if you get off track. Get back on track by being gentle with yourself and picking up where you left off.
2. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Caring for your mental health is important regardless of your age. However, mental wellness becomes even more important as you age, as seniors often face depression, feelings of isolation, and loneliness. Fortunately, there are many ways you can look after your mental health. This can range from things like breathing exercises to calm your anxiety, mindful meditation to help you refocus, or spending time outdoors if you suffer from depression.
However, sometimes natural options simply aren’t enough, and there’s no denying the effectiveness of depression meds. But if going to the doctor’s office isn’t doable, online solutions exist that make the process safe and easy. When you consult with a board-certified doctor online, you can receive antidepressant prescriptions within minutes and without having to leave home. What’s more, many leading insurance plans are also accepted.
3. Start a Business
If you have a hobby you can monetize, or a dream company you’ve always wanted to start now is the time to do it. Around 400,000 small businesses are created each year, so you have plenty of companions when looking for advice. You can go as big or as small as you want to. Have some sewing skills you want to put to work? You can open an Etsy store and sell your wares online. Or, if you have the expertise you want to share, start a coaching business and help others with your knowledge.
If you start your own business, you need to get an EIN (tax ID number), which will identify your business and make paying taxes easier. This is how the IRS will track your payroll taxes, whether quarterly or annually.
4. Revamp Your Diet
Eating healthy can be confusing with conflicting information on the internet, but some dietary changes have been proven to greatly increase health outcomes. Lowering sodium intake, increasing vegetable consumption, and lowering the amount of meat you eat are great places to start. If you have any specific health concerns, speak to your doctor about the diet that will benefit you the most.
5. Express Yourself
Even if you’ve never been the creative type, expressing yourself through art or writing can be enjoyable and great for your mental health. Books like “Steal Like an Artist” can help you get through creative blocks and make things you like. Whether you want to learn to paint or start journaling every day, there are many ways to get your spirit onto paper or canvas. Even coloring in adult coloring books allows you to get into a meditative state and enjoy expression through color.
6. Learn To Meditate
Some of the activities above, like yoga and coloring, have the added benefit of getting you into a meditative state. Regular meditation has been proven to grow the part of your brain that helps you relax and handle stress. Even five minutes per day can reduce your anxiety. Try these simple meditation tips and set a timer, so you know how long your session will be.
By trying some of the tips above – including trying out new activities, going online for antidepressant meds, revamping your diet, and practicing meditation – you will be on your way to a happier, healthier life. Remember that motivation often follows action, so just get started and be gentle with yourself.
Yogaaah is your source for online yoga videos and classes, as well as yoga teacher training. Connect today to find out more!
Written by Julie Morris