10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself during “September Is Healthy Aging Month”
1. Do not act your age or at least what you think your current age should act like. Who better to decide what’s appropriate for your age than you, anyway? You’ve earned the right to be who you want to be. Some people may say this is denial, but we say it’s positive thinking and goes a long way toward feeling better about yourself. (Tip: Don’t keep looking in the mirror, just FEEL IT!)
2. Be positive in your conversations and your actions every day. When you catch yourself complaining, check yourself right there and change the conversation to something positive. (Tip: Take a break from watching the news).
3. Take a break from negative friends who complain all of the time and constantly talk about how awful everything is. As harsh as that may sound, people who do not have a positive outlook on life can stop you from moving forward. Surround yourself with energetic, happy, positive people of all ages and you will be happier too. (Tip: Smile often. It’s contagious and wards off naysayers.)
4. Walk as vibrantly as you can. Analyze your gait. If you aren’t physically limited, do you walk slowly because you perhaps have a fear of falling? Make a conscious effort to take big strides, walk with your heel first, and wear comfortable shoes.
5. Stand up straight! You can knock off the appearance of a few extra years with this trick your mother kept trying to tell you. Are you holding your stomach in, have your shoulders back, and your chin up? Fix your stance and practice it every day until it feels natural. You will look great and feel better.
6. How’s your smile? Your teeth are just as important to your good health as the rest of your body. Not only is it the first thing people notice, but good oral health is a gateway to your overall well-being.
7. Lonely? Do something about it now. Pick up the phone (landline or cell) and make a call to someone you have been meaning to reach out to. Or write that letter or email. Invite someone to join you for a socially distanced lunch or coffee. It’s also a wonderful time to sign up for an online course – anything that interests you. And then, in the (hopefully near) future, you can also consider volunteering your time or taking an in-person class.
8. Get up and out! Being active, especially outside, is a well-known key to good health. Have a dog? Getting out for a walk is good for both of you. Puttering around in the garden counts, too. Even some gentle stretching in your yard or at a beach or local park feels great. Being outdoors gives a lift to your mood.
9. Make this month the time to set up your annual physical (or annual wellness visit) and other health screenings. Go to the appointments and then, hopefully, you can stop worrying about ailments for a while or at least know you are on the right track. (To make an appointment please click HERE or call DMC at 603-537-1300.)
10. Review your diet. This doesn’t need to be a “bummer!” We all slip into bad habits. Making even small changes like cutting back on soda and adding one good thing (like blueberries or avocado) to your diet can help you feel better and get you started on a healthier path. Seek the expertise of a nutritionist if you’d like some help.
(To make an appointment with a DMC nutritionist please click HERE or call DMC at 603-537-1300.)
(Edited from an article on www.healthyaging.net )