If you’re over 50, you may have given up trying to figure out how to balance your health due to the serious hormonal and physical fluctuations that come with this stage of life. Perimenopause, menopause, hot flashes, an expanding waistline, aches, and pains in your joints, wrinkles, and grey hairs may all be coming out to play as you head into this decade. But now isn’t the time to sit back and let the ravages of time destroy your health and beauty. You still deserve to look and feel your absolute best, and here are some easy ways to do just that.
Surround yourself with people you love
Find friends that make you laugh, spend time in the company of people you love. Nothing will make you feel better or more refreshed than a few hours of pure, genuine friendship. Plus, laughter is a proven mood booster, and your friends and family can be great encouragements to keep you on the track of a healthy life.
Eat right, so you feel great
Healthy, clean eating isn’t just about following the most recent fad diet so you can lose weight and then gain it all back when you inevitably quit. It is about changing your lifestyle and finally taking the time to prioritize your own health and wellbeing. Make a few simple changes such as cutting out added sugar and reducing your intake of processed bread, and you’ll be amazed at the results. Not only to your waistline but to your mental and physical wellbeing too.
Take care of your skin
Even though you may be tempted to throw in the towel and forgo your skincare routine thinking, “it’s already too late,” it is essential to maintain a healthy skin care routine throughout life. Don’t fall for “miracle” anti-aging serums that claim to shave ten years off your face. Simply keep your skin moisturized and protected with a natural mineral sunscreen whenever you go outdoors and stay hydrated from the inside by drinking plenty of water. Don’t be afraid to embrace your laughter lines as evidence of a life well lived instead of trying to cover them up.
Turn back the clock with exercise
Though old injuries may begin flaring up and you’re not quite as limber as you used to be, aging is no excuse for inactivity. In fact, regular exercise is one of the greatest ways to stay youthful and keep your bones and muscles strong. Start with a brisk walk and increase activity levels as your body adjusts.
Working out now and maintaining physical fitness will benefit your body and mind for years to come. Research has shown that women who are physically fit at middle age are nearly 90 percent less likely to develop dementia decades later, compared to women who are moderately fit. Try taking up yoga for a gentle way to keep your body healthy.
Spend time outdoors
Make an effort to rediscover the great outdoors. Break out that old camping gear from the garage and take a trip into the woods. Build a campfire and sleep under the stars. Go hiking or fishing and reconnect with nature. The fresh air will benefit your body, and the soothing, peaceful atmosphere will help restore balance and serenity to a chaotic mind.
Embrace your passion
Whether you love to cook, bike, or paint, now is the time to do it. Carve out time to spend on the things you love or try something you’ve always wanted to do. You will quickly notice a significant boost in your mood, and you’ll feel better too. Try learning a new language or musical instrument or taking a class. Anything to keep your mind engaged and vibrant.
Develop your personal style
And wear it with confidence! Dye your hair to cover the grey, or let your silver locks shine. Wear fun bold patterns, or embrace chic minimalism. Don’t let age or society tell you how to dress or do your makeup. Develop your unique style, and don’t let anyone convince you to do otherwise. You don’t have to buy into societal norms to look and feel your best.
What else can you do over fifty to look and feel your best? Let us know in the comments below!
-Susan Patterson