Tips for ageing gracefully

Ever wish you knew the secrets to ageing gracefully 10, 20 or 30 years ago? Eat healthy, protect yourself from the sun, don’t smoke or drink too much and exercise regularly. But what else do the experts recommend to keep you looking and feeling younger and healthier?

Some people think that ageing gracefully involves expensive skin care products, tablets that promise the impossible, dying your hair or even cosmetic surgery. The good news is that the experts suggest there are much easier ways to access that fountain of youth.

Any time is a great time to get healthier. Don’t think that because you’re no longer in your 20s or 30s that you can’t improve your health. If you want to age gracefully, then keeping healthy includes feeding your mind as well. Increasing your intake of fish oils can help reduce memory loss in older age and keep joints and skin in good condition says Dr Majid Fotuhi, a neurology faculty member at Harvard Medical School. Recognise that your metabolism changes as you age; for most it slows down. Keep this in mind and choose a more Mediterranean-based diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, opting for olive oil over butter or margarine.

Ageing gracefully involves being aware of your health. Regular checkups help you maintain optimal wellness. Common ailments like high blood pressure and diabetes can be controlled well if detected early, helping you stay healthy longer.

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As you age, exercise actually becomes more important. Regular daily exercise keeps your heart healthy, your joints supple, your mind active and your muscles in good condition. Walking, swimming and cycling are great anti-ageing exercises that are easy on the body while providing an aerobic workout and keeping muscles flexible and toned. While you’re at it, why not mix it up a little and try salsa dancing, kickboxing or Pilates.

Sometimes we can be so obsessed with trying to stay the same that we neglect to accept change as a part of life. Everyone ages, and if you choose not to fight this, you are far more likely to stress less, embrace your future and age with elegance and sophistication. According to Cynthia Pasquella, celebrity health practitioner and nutritionist, the ultimate anti-ageing secret is to stress less and accept change.

There have been many studies conducted over the years that identify the importance of keeping broad social networks. Family and friends, social networks and special interest groups are important to maintain relationships with. They help keep your mind and body active, help you to focus on what is actually important in life and help to reduce your stress levels.

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Trying to keep up with stereotypical ideals that we are so often bombarded with about what ageing is and isn’t can simply be too stressful. It’s important to understand that ageing gracefully is not about covering those grey hairs, getting rid of wrinkles and being able to stay up late and party.

Getting adequate sleep allows your body to rest and recuperate, helping you feel and look younger. A minimum of seven to eight hours of good quality sleep each night is vital for ageing gracefully and maintaining optimum health. Getting less than six hours of sleep a night can make you prone to a range of health issues and ailments.

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