Guest Blog by: Dana Brown of Health Conditions
We live in a society that strongly values youth and beauty, so getting older can be a difficult process. While you might not be a carefree 20-something anymore, there are still things you can do to feel younger and healthier. Exercising regularly, eating more healthy foods, and even caring for your skin can help prevent you from feeling older than you actually are. Use these tips to feel confident and fulfilled at any age.
Avoid fads
While you can’t stop or wind back the clock, there are plenty of research-backed ways to gain back energy and feel younger than you are. It’s important to watch out for predatory schemes that promise to change your health overnight: while the following tips might not be quick fixes, they are proven to help you feel great.
Healthy eating
While it’s not a quick fix, eating healthy will help your body repair itself and allow you to feel younger over time. Focusing on nutrition is foundational for self-care, and will enhance both your mental and physical health.
To adopt healthy eating habits, remember a few important guidelines: processed food should be avoided at all costs, and sugary or salty foods should be eaten in moderation. A healthy diet is all about balance: rather than following a stressful or rigid diet, allow some flexibility to include treats every once in a while. You won’t derail your healthy eating with the occasional cookie, and your mental health might benefit from a sweet treat.
As you make a healthy eating plan, incorporate pantry staples that you already have on hand to help you save money. Staples such as beans, rice, and other dried goods can be used in healthy and affordable recipes such as spinach tortellini soup, legume quesadillas, or a soup and sandwich. Keep an open mind as you go through the pantry, and look up healthy recipes online if you need inspiration.
It’s also important to avoid fad diets as you start eating healthier. Many won’t work, and some are actually dangerous: be sure to do plenty of research and talk to a nutritionist if you’re thinking about trying a trendy diet.
Instead of trying the latest fad diet, look to weight-loss apps. These apps allow you to track your daily habits including exercise and calorie intake, which can help you shed pounds. In order to get the most out of these apps, you will need a high-functioning smartphone. If you’re working with an older and slow model, check in with your wireless carrier for seasonal deals and offers.
Skincare tips
Almost every beauty expert will tell you that hydration is the key to keeping your skin looking young. Along with drinking plenty of water each day, using a daily face moisturizer with SPF will help prevent premature wrinkles. Find a body lotion that you can slather on the minute you get out of the shower: by applying lotion when your skin is damp, you’ll be able to lock in moisture and keep your skin looking great.
Another way to keep your skin looking young is by running a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep. If you live in a dry climate, this can help combat the moisture-zapping dryness and help your skin stay hydrated. It’s also important to get plenty of sleep each night: sleeping at least eight hours has been proven to help fight premature skin aging. Also, try to keep your bedroom organized so that you can cut down on the anxiety and stress that clutter can cause. By keeping this area clean, you can also avoid trapping any negative energy.
While getting older has its perks, it’s not usually a welcome process for many. Use this resource to keep your energy levels high and to feel great at any age. Exercising, eating well, and focusing on skincare will go a long way to helping boost your overall health.
Need help achieving complete wellness? Ali McWilliams life and fitness coaching can empower you to be stronger and healthier and live with purpose. 608.712.7545 or ali@alimcwilliams.com
Image via Pexels
