Everyone ages no matter what, but not everyone embraces the aging process. Many people ignore it or try to fight it instead of welcoming the changes. However, you’re never too old or too young to embrace the aging process. Here are 10 things that you can do to make the most of each passing year, from using anti-aging skincare to learning how to cope with change:
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Stay active.
Staying physically active as you age will help you to embrace the aging process. If you aren’t already active, establishing a physical exercise routine will go a long way toward improving your energy levels. Even just walking around the block will benefit your health! If you are already very active, you should keep at it, though you may need to reassess your exercise routine as you age. For instance, switching from a high impact activity like running to a low impact activity like swimming can help to ease joint pain.
Eat healthfully.
As you age, your body can’t bounce back as quickly from alcohol binges or last night’s fast food runs. While it’s fine to indulge on occasion, you might need to shift your overall diet to fend off heartburn and other health issues that can be triggered by certain foods and drinks. Eating a diet rich in protein, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables will ensure you are getting most of your nutrients from foods, though you might also need to supplement with vitamins if your doctor recommends it.
Focus on preventive care and exercise.
Most people don’t think about preventative care in their twenties, thirties, and even forties, but it can make a huge difference in the aging process. Preventive screenings and tests can help you catch potential issues early and generally optimize your health. Doing physical therapy and exercise to prevent age-related health issues like osteoporosis and knee pain will also help you to stay strong and maintain mobility as you age.
Give your skin what it needs.
Even if you had very oily skin in your younger years, you will probably find your skin becoming more dry as you age. That’s why it’s essential to use gentle cleansers, thick skin tightening creams, and other products that leave your skin feeling soothed and nourished. If signs of visible aging bother you, using wrinkle creams and dark spot removers can help to improve your appearance and make you feel more confident.
Keep learning.
It’s never too late to learn something new, even if you have long retired from the workforce. Teaching yourself a new skill or learning about a new subject won’t just give you something to focus on, but will also give you a sense of purpose and help keep your brain sharp. Taking a new class in person or online can also be a great way to meet other people and make new social connections. If you’re specifically looking to meet other people in a similar life stage, look for a class that is specifically meant for seniors.
Find a sense of purpose.
Many people feel lost after they retire, especially if they got a lot of fulfillment out of their job. Finding a new purpose is key for embracing the aging process and making the most of your golden years. Many seniors volunteer for a charity they value, go back to working part-time, or even start their own business. It may take several tries to find something that you love as much, so don’t be afraid to keep experimenting and trying new things.
Make friends of all ages.
Many people understandably want friends their own ages, but it can be really beneficial to make friends at all stages of life — both older and younger than you. Having friends of all ages gives you perspective, broadens your horizons, and can help you embrace aging gracefully. Seeking out social connections also helps to prevent the loneliness and isolation that some older adults can feel.
Practice self-acceptance.
You can’t stop aging, and you can’t always control how you age either. While diet, exercise, and cosmetic treatments can slow some signs of aging, your genetics are also a big determining factor in how you age both internally and externally. If both your parents had forehead wrinkles, for example, then you will probably develop them as well. Instead of obsessing over signs of aging that you can’t change, focus on practicing self-acceptance and staying healthy as you age rather than trying to turn back the clock.
Decide how you want to age.
Many countries and societies have a very limited view of aging, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to follow their standard beliefs. If you don’t want to retire at age 60 and move to Florida, then you don’t have to do that! Do some brainstorming and create a vision board of what you want your life to look like as you age. Instead of concentrating on what society says aging must look like, focus on your own hopes and dreams. Nobody decides how you age but you.
Learn how to cope with change.
Adjusting to any kind of life change can be tough, and aging is especially hard since it involves your own body. It’s tempting to ignore the changes and keep living your life exactly the same way. When you feel the urge to do this, try to lean into the discomfort and build your resilience for change instead. Learning to cope with change more broadly will help you embrace the aging process and make the most of the rest of your life.
Are you trying to embrace aging in the near year? What are your other tips for embracing aging? Let us know in the comments below!
