Joyful Aging
As you age, your body changes, both physically and mentally. You begin to slow down and may not be able to do the same activities as when you were younger. Perhaps you cannot move as fast, jump as high or concentrate with same intensity. Rather than feeling frustrated by these limitations, it’s important to find new or modified versions of activities that stimulate you. It’s all about creating joy in the moment. Participating in both physical and mental activities can transform your whole outlook on life. To ensure you’re living life to its fullest, it’s crucial you are active, not just physically, but mentally as well.
Take Care of Your Cognitive Health
Cognition, the ability to clearly think, learn and remember, often changes as you grow older. Many adults experience changes in memory as they age. Research shows that healthy eating, staying active and learning new skills may help keep older adults cognitively healthy.
Improve Your Physical Health
Some individuals have exercised and been active their entire life while others have not. No matter your situation, it is important to get moving and be as active as you can. Find a fun sport or activity that you enjoy and will be consistent with. It may be dancing, golfing, walking, hiking, swimming, playing pickle ball, lifting weights, or yoga. There are so many fun activities to choose from and you shouldn’t be afraid to mix things up – our bodies and brains love change. Be sure to vary the pace, the mood and the environment. It keeps you interested and does more for your mind, body and spirit.
Enjoy Leisure Activities and Hobbies
Hobbies are not only fun, but they may also be good for your health. Research shows that people who participate in hobbies and social leisure activities may be at lower risk for some health problems. Music, theater, dance, and art are great examples of activities that can improve your quality of life because they enhance cognitive skills, alertness, self-esteem, and happiness.
One of my favorite activities I recommend for older adults is dance. I have danced since I was nine years old and I have a passion to share my love and knowledge for dance with others. Incorporating dance and movement into your life can help you achieve a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle. As you move to music and rhythm, your spirits will lift and a sense of joy will ignite within you. Dance also is a great way to improve balance, posture, coordination, strength, alertness and energy.
Healthy Tips for Summer
- Stay hydrated – drink water before, during and after you exercise.
- Wear light-colored, lightweight clothing.
- Apply sunscreen regularly.
- Add more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet.
- Get moving to stay fit, incorporating full body workouts into your routine.
- Get outside to breathe the fresh air and get some Vitamin D.
- Join a walking group and schedule walks for early in the day to avoid the heat.
- Attend outdoor gatherings with family and friends. Activities that interact with others are so important.
- Have fun, be happy, and soak up the longer days of summer.
Movement is Life
Are you interested in starting or joining a dance class? For exciting, active and fun dance classes and videos, contact me to learn more about my “For the Young at Heart” Adult Dance and Fitness program.
This article originally appeared in the Coastal Breeze.
