We ARE living longer now than any other time in history…as someone who just celebrated the BIG 64 (who knew we’d ever get here!!!???) I know I have to do certain things in order to be able to travel and move as I want to. Would you believe that in the 1900’s the average American could expect to live until 46!!!
I know that I’m rabid about fitness, nutrition and staying in the game doing work I love. I’ve yet to meet ANYONE who has retired and just LOVES it…they are always bored or looking for something to do part time. Now, as you know, I love being active…skiing (goodbye snow….), golfing, running, lifting or walking with pals (you’d be amazed at the World Problems solved during these walks…). But, I don’t want to golf 7 days a week…
So, I am always on the lookout for tips and tricks to keep me in my current condition. I want to live longer and healthier.
Here are a couple of small tweaks we can all make right now to increase longevity and stay healthy.
REDUCE STRESS
Stress can really age us quickly. Though everyone has some level of stress in their lives, if it becomes chronic it can take a serious toll on our health. Even a small reduction in your stress levels can add years to your life.
CONTROL YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE
Hypertension is a common complaint. It can result from stress, diet, lack of movement and other issues. Luckily, you can reduce blood pressure with lifestyle changes. This little tweak alone can extend your life.
GIVE UP THE CANCER STICKS!
I think we all know that smoking increases your risk of heart disease (and lungs too). But, it can also speed up the aging process, especially your skin! People who stop smoking greatly reduce their risk for disease. YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO QUIT!
GET YOUR ZZZZZZZZ’s
Sleep does sooooo many good things for us. It helps us retain what we learned throughout the day and gives our bodies a chance to rebuild and recharge. Sleep is KEY to longevity. Aim for 7 – 8 hours a night.
EAT REAL FOOD
The food you eat affects your health drastically. Eat real food. Try to stay away from processed foods. Enjoy the stuff you really like! Use portion control to stay within normal weight limits. Eliminating entire food groups is not a healthy way to live. If you feel you are missing something…take a multi-vitamin. Ask your doctor or PA for their thoughts.
Of course you know I’m going to get on my usual “fitness” rant. I have so many pals who are having trouble with joints, hips, knees, etc. Many have had surgery. Try to get some sort of movement in every.single.day. It doesn’t have to be a marathon or 3 hours in the gym…it should be whatever YOU like to do and for just 30 minutes:) Start small and stay with it. I ski 50 days a season and play golf and travel all season long… I’m hoping that by eating well and staying active, I can escape the “replacement” club.
WHAT SMALL CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE TO YOUR LIFESTYLE? DO ANY OF THESE TIPS RESONATE WITH YOU? LOOKING FORWARD TO HEARING ABOUT YOUR IDEAS!
