They say that age is just a number and that old age is just a state of mind. Though there is some truth in these words, there is also a little more to it than that. As we grow older, we may find that we don’t have as much energy as we use to. This is just a natural part of the aging progress. Does this mean it is time to sit back and throw in the towel? Not at all, it just means we have to find new ways to stay healthy and active. The key to this is pushing ourselves off that couch and heading outside.
So how do we get off that couch and get active?
- Try a workout schedule: This doesn’t have to involve a vigorous routine that pushes your limits or a 200lb dumbbell. It can be something that is actually a little relaxing such as a walk around the local park or a living room yoga session. Try and make set times for these activities. It is easier to push yourself to go for a walk at 10:00 a.m. then it is to go sometime this morning.
- Recreational Activities: Staying active doesn’t necessarily mean working out. If you have children or grand children then activities such as sports, playing catch, going on hikes, or pushing them on a swing set is keeping your body in motion.
- Avoid Bad Habits: Things such as smoking, alcohol, and pills can cause us to lose energy. Smoking makes it harder to breathe during activities. Alcohol can add unsightly weight gain and pills such as pain killers can have drowsy side effects. Try and cut back on these type habits. If possible cut them out altogether.
- Massage Therapy: As we grow older, our joints can begin to lock up on us. We can begin to experience stiffness and pain in our knees, elbows, and back. Even when we are staying active these things can creep up on us. Luckily with a professional massage, the aches and stiffness can be eased away, allowing you to keep on going.
- Stretch: Some of us have a busy schedule that doesn’t give us time to get out and be active. When we get a bit caught up in life, try and take a few minutes out in the morning or at night and stretch your body. Do some basic stretching exercises. It is also a good idea to do stretches before any workout or activity to help prevent injury.
- Eat Healthy: There are a thousand and one different diet plans out there for people. It seems every month there is a new diet that will help you lose weight, feel better, and have more energy. Which do you follow? That is entirely up to you. Be careful sticking strictly to any of of these diets. Everyone is different, and a good diet is based off the individual. Do research into what foods boost energy with not a lot of fat. Seafood is a healthy dish that is good to enjoy about twice a week. Fast food should be mostly avoided when possible. Not to say you can’t indulge with a bacon cheeseburger now and then, but don’t make them a part of your everyday meals.
For more advice on healthy food choices, or to massage the stiffness out of your joints, contact Dr. Beth today for an appointment and get started on the path to better living.