Building and practicing healthy lifestyle habits can help protect us from various health issues. They also give us the energy we need to stay productive, creative, and happy. But did you know that incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine is also an excellent way to ensure you’ll age gracefully?
Let’s clear it up first, aging well doesn’t mean you’ll still look like you’re in your 20s or you won’t get any signs of wrinkles or sagging. Aging gracefully goes beyond that. It’s about having the mental and physical health to enjoy and live your best life. And you can only do that with the right habits. Read on to know how you can age gracefully inside out.
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Moderate alcohol intake
One of the worst habits that could jeopardize your overall health and wellbeing is heavy alcohol consumption. It’s even associated with a high risk of premature death and serious health issues such as heart, liver, and pancreatic disease. On the other hand, several studies even found that moderate consumption tends to decrease the risk of early death.
At the same time, wine is particularly great for health since it contains high levels of polyphenol antioxidants. Research suggests that wine is beneficial for preventing numerous health issues such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, neurological disorders, and heart disease. Drink alcohol in moderation.
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Stay physically active
While it’s quite obvious that staying physically healthy is one of the keys to healthier and longer life, it’s still surprising how many people still don’t take this seriously. Experts say that 15 minutes of daily physical activity provide amazing benefits such as adding about three years of life. In fact, studies show that every extra 15 minutes of exercise can reduce the risk of premature death by 4%. While small amounts of workouts are helpful, exercising for more than 150 minutes every week is more ideal.
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Prioritize sun protection
Too much exposure to UV rays can’t just cause wrinkles and skin cancer, but also suppression of immune system and eye damage. Short-term skin damage may include blistering and pain. As for long-term unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays, you can expect to see more sagging, dryness, and wrinkles, In short, it accelerates your skin’s aging.
Protect your skin from daily exposure by using sunscreen with an appropriate SPF number. You can also take better care of your skin by using anti-aging solutions and skin rejuvenating products such as Vitamin C serums and hydration creams. Moreover, simple habits like not schedule outdoor activities between 10 am to 4 pm, wearing tightly woven fabrics, and using umbrellas would also be helpful.
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Don’t ignore mental health
Having good mental health plays a big part in aging gracefully. Avoid dwelling too much on daily stress and always find ways to elevate your mood, when you can. You can spend time with your family or friends. Strong and meaningful connections can help improve both mental and physical health and increase life longevity. Even pets can help you have a better mood and reduced loneliness. Also, having a realistic mindset and positive attitude is linked to better disability recovery. Accepting that aging is inevitable and focusing on things that bring you joy can make all the difference.
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Prioritize your happiness
Did you know that happiness can actually increase life longevity? People who feel happy are more likely to have a few more decades in their life than those who don’t. Apart from lifespan, happiness is also linked to other benefits such as a stronger immune system, improved productivity and creativity, better decision making, and promote an overall healthier lifestyle. Focus on things that make you happy, whether it’s engaging in your creative hobbies or connecting with your loved ones. Practicing gratitude and self-awareness can help a lot in staying happy.
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Be more conscientious
According to studies, people who are more conscientious have a low risk of psychiatric conditions, heart problems, and diabetes. The trait of conscientiousness is the ability to be disciplined, organized, goal-oriented, and efficient. Individuals who exhibit this quality are more diligent and careful on their tasks and obligations. As result, they are also less likely to react negatively to stress or take dangerous risks. Overall, they tend to make healthier choices than others, leading to a longer lifespan.
There surely is nothing wrong with enjoying your youth. But if you want to maintain a strong and healthy body and mind, you’ll have to start practicing our recommended wellness habits here. Steer clear of health problems by taking good care of yourself and focusing on things that make you feel good and healthy!
