09-05-17

With advances in technology and modern culture we are in a time where it is seen as weird and almost wrong to age or appear older. While we can’t stop the aging process, many are turning to cosmetic surgery to rid the wrinkles and visiting the hair stylist to cover up the grays. However, we all know that looking younger does not equate healthy aging. So, in honor of healthy aging month let’s dive into healthy aging tips and how we can help our bodies age gracefully.

1. Watch what you eat
   Our fast paced life and convenience-based food system are making it harder than ever to get the nutrients we need. Fast food and pre-packed foods are helping to increase calorie and sodium intake and are often the culprits of many health complications we see today.
   
   Tips: Focus on fruits and vegetables. We know that the longest living people on the planet keep a plant slanted diet. Limit or eliminate processed and synthetic foods. If it was made in a lab it doesn’t belong in your body. Supplement the nutrients you are missing or finding hard to consume. New Earth has an amazing line of real food supplements that feature some of the most nutrient dense foods on this planet, with a focus on Earth’s First Foods™.
2. Exercise your brain
   We are seeing more and more aging adults being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or experiencing a significant cognitive decline. All are very difficult to witness and experience.
   
   Tips: Exercise your brain. Never stop challenging your mind and learning new things. Just because we get older doesn’t mean we have to stop learning. You can try a new language, take music lessons, go back to school, or simply read.
3. Live an active life
   Regular exercise or movement throughout the day is key to both mental and physical health. The old saying “use it or lose it” holds true with muscle and joint health as we age. By living an active life you help maintain your strength, keep your joints lubricated and most importantly help maintain your independence to go where you want when you want.
   
   Tips: Do something you enjoy and make it part of your routine. Some people enjoy hitting the gym while others prefer the great outdoors. Do what keeps a smile on your face and works best for you. Just keep moving.
4. Focus on relationships
   As we age, there are many factors that can lead to social isolation: retirement, the loss of a spouse and so on. It is more important than ever to develop and maintain strong relationships with family and friends.
   
   Tips: Create time for you and your family to be together. You can schedule a dinner once a week (or more frequently), schedule a vacation once a year or find time to be active together. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what you do as long as you do it with loved ones and friends. The key here is making time for one another.
5. Kick the stress
   Stress occurs at all stages of life; it’s part of being human. The problems arise with chronic and excess stress. When stress is ignored and not dealt with it can weaken the immune response and lead to a whole slew of illnesses, especially in the elderly. The key is handling the stress.
   
   Tips: Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation. Be sure to take care of yourself by exercising, eating nutrient rich foods and getting plenty of sleep. Spend some time in nature (without your cell phone).

At the end of the day, it’s about practicing the habits we know to be healthy and making them a part of our daily routine.