..to Not Feeling Old

Everyone ages, it’s just a part of life. But this doesn’t mean you have to feel old. In fact, you are only as old as you let yourself feel. And the number one way to keep yourself feeling young is to stay active.

In Sweden, a study found that the number one way to prolong life is by exercising regularly. And the crazy thing was, even those who started exercising late in life for the purpose of the study, still lived longer than their counterparts who didn’t exercise at all. So, if you want to live longer, there is no such thing as starting too late, and the sooner you begin exercising, the longer you are likely to live.

Elderly adults can often be afraid to start exercising, as they think it may raise their risk of injury, however, doctors have found the opposite to be true. Regularly exercising, no matter what your age, actually lowers your chances of falling, fractures, and other exercise related injuries.

A number of medical studies have shown that physical movement which raises your heart rate for 30 minutes a day, five or more days a week, can help prevent a number of age-related illnesses such as high cholesterol and heart disease.

Physical movement, no matter what type it is, not only boosts your physical health, but it also gives you more energy, manages symptoms of illness and pain, as well as nurtures your mental mindset. Exercising releases endorphins, as well as vital destressing hormones, both of which help you feel happier, and manage stress more effectively.

Numerous people have also found that exercising helps them sleep better at night, and quality sleep is a crucial part of looking and feeling young.

Find an Activity You Like

A number of people don’t exercise because they claim that it is no fun or they don’t like it. And this can be true, but there are so many ways out there to exercise that this shouldn’t be true. If going for a jog, or going to the gym just isn’t for you, there are a number of other ways to stay active.

You can take something such as a yoga class nearby, play Frisbee with your furry friend in the park, or purchase a plot in the community garden. No matter what your interests, there is an active activity out there for everyone.

Consider joining a local club of an activity you like to enjoy, such as a hiking or biking club. You’ll probably enjoy meeting like-minded people who are also working to remain active. And even after all of this, if you have yet to find an activity to engage in, then perhaps it’s time to try something new.

This will not only help keep you physically fit, but it will also give you a feeling of excitement as you attempt the new activity which will do wonders to keeping your mind youthful and young.

It is important to find an activity which is safe for you. If you have any questions about a physical activity which would be appropriate for your age and capabilities, discuss your options with a doctor or personal trainer.

Staying active, no matter how you look at it, is truly the fountain of youth. And even if you are just learning this now, and you already have a few years behind you, it is never too late to start. Just make sure you find an activity that you enjoy doing—that suits your body and lifestyle—and chances are you’ll reap all the benefits of exercise without even knowing that you are exercising.