If you’ve ever tried to talk your parents into going to the gym with you, it is likely that the response was something along the lines of “I’m too old to do that shit”.
Previous generations have grown with the belief that age is a terminal illness that inevitably deprives you of the ability to do anything body-care related. While this is relevant and valid for individuals who believe it is so, it is not really the ultimate truth.
The truth is, if you are of an older age and don’t have any severe physical/health issues, here are some facts for you:
- You can still exercise
- You can still eat well
- You can still treat your body right
In most cases, it’s only your mindset and false beliefs that are holding you back.
Self-Care In The Older Years
It is true that there are certain physiological and mental changes that occur as we age, but one thing still remains true - You can CHOOSE to take actions and adopt health-nourishing habits.
Here are our best tips for adults who are looking to improve their lifestyle and habits:
#1 Exercise!
The older we get, the more muscle mass we lose and the less active we become. Nevertheless, engaging in low & high-intensity physical exercise, is one of the best anti-aging therapies you can have during your older years. Exercise and especially resistance training can help you maintain your muscle mass over the years, leading to significant improvements in metabolism & how you look. Since the body is more prone to injuries during the older years, it is a good idea to mix low and high intensity training and avoid over-exertion.
Think of it this way - What can you do for your body in the next 10 years, given that you are 55 years old now? 10 years is a lot of time and it will certainly yield results if you put in the work!
#2 Eat well
As older age creeps in, people become more likely to ditch their body-care habits altogether.
Whether you are 20 or 55, one thing remains true: your body needs certain essential nutrients, in order to sustain healthy functioning of all bodily components and systems. For this reason, it is a good idea to be mindful of your nutrition, even at an older age.
Include quality animal products, fish, fruits, vegetables in your daily nutrition plan and try to eat the least amount of junk food possible. Quality whole foods will keep you satiated and will in turn make it much less likely for you to overeat and gain excessive weight. What does this mean? Better health and body composition even in your older years!
#3 Manage Stress
Stress management is an important aspect of body/self-care and your anti-aging habits. There are lots of different ways to do that, and many self-help books, but it mostly comes down to one very important realization. Most stress responses are AUTOMATIC - You don’t choose to be stressed, stress takes over you. It’s at this time that you have to think outside of the box and ask yourself questions like:
“Why does this make me feel this way?”
“Is this issue worth my time and health?”
“Is there an adequate way of dealing with this without feeling stressed?”
“Is this going to matter in 5 years?”
All of these questions can lead to certain behavioral models that will guide you to the right decision in the situation and therefore, reduce stress. Internal self-regulation is important!
In conclusion, contrary to popular belief, your older age is not a terminal illness that you can’t escape. The fact that certain changes happen in the body during your older years, should push you to become more aware of your habits and improve them, in order to nourish your body.
Remember that as long as you are alive, you have the opportunity to take powerful decisions and choose actions and habits that will ultimately improve your quality of life. Stay active, eat well, rest enough and manage your stress and you will be surprised how fit you can look during your older years!
