A few weeks ago, I had a conversation with one of our friend and long-term customer on the subject of aging and living successfully. The following week she was kind enough to present me a list of ten tips for living successfully written by Dr. Roger Landry. Dr. Landry is a preventative medicine physician and a published author. He has been featured nationally and internationally on radio and TV and written exclusive articles, being called and expert in in the field of aging. I found his tips quite interesting yet simplistic, and felt they were important to share. Read through and see how many of these tips you do daily.
- Use It or Lose It
We must challenge and grow our physical, mental and social abilities. As we age we can’t just coast, we must keep moving, learning and staying engaged with life.
- Keep Moving
Physical activity is the closest thing to a fountain of youth. Staying active (even just 30 minutes per day) can prevent heart disease, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, and dementia. The best results come from a commitment to strength training, endurance, flexibility and balance.
- Challenge Your Mind
Most mental ability lost with age is due to lack of use, but by continuing to learn throughout life, we can grow new connections in our brains. How do we do this? By learning new things.
- Stay Connected
Cherish family, rebuild old friendships, join clubs and be open to meeting new people. We need human interaction to thrive and to build resilience.
- Lower Your Risks
By knowing your health risks and working with your doctor to lower then, you can function at very high levels for decades. Don’t skip on regular physicals and be proactive about your health.
- Never Act Your Age
Age is an attitude, not a number. Following your heart and active how you feel will keep you dynamic, creative and living life to the fullest.
- Wherever You Are…Be There
Don’t let your chattering mind take you from this moment, which is the pure joy of life. Find pursuits like music, art, writing, meditation, or just enjoying mature. Keep your mind from the negative thoughts that lead to stress and higher risk of disease.
- Find Your Purpose
We never stop needing meaning, passion, or just a reason to get out of bed in the morning. Life without purpose is merely existing.
- Have Children In Your Life
They bring a sense of meaning, wonder and renewal. The Russian novelist Dostoyevsky said “The soul is healed by being with children.”
- Laugh
In studies on centenarians, the most commonly displayed traits by these individuals are humor and optimism. Laughter stimulates the immune system, protects us from disease and definitely makes the journey more fun.