Are you looking for ways to energize and refresh your perspective? As we grow older, life can sometimes seem to lose some of its brilliance. If you could use a little boost, here are a few ideas for putting more zest into your days.
Try a New Supplement
As our bodies age, Sharon Basaraba at Verywell Fit points out we tend to need fewer calories than when we were younger. This can make it challenging to meet our nutritional requirements. With that in mind, sometimes supplements can hold the keys to health and well-being. For instance, you can improve your gut health with probiotic and fiber supplements. There are also supplements to help support joint health, manage stress levels, and to help lower blood pressure.
Another idea is to take a supplement that tackles multiple issues, like CBD oil. CBD oil comes from cannabis, but it doesn’t make you feel high. However, it can help you fight inflammation, improve your sleep, feel more relaxed, and even experience less pain. It’s also a great way to improve your general wellness and outlook on life.
Stay Physically Active
There are numerous benefits you can gain from staying physically active as you grow older. Exercising helps improve your energy levels, enhances strength, and lowers your risk for several conditions, such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. It’s also good for your mental wellness, potentially reducing the risk of depression, lowering stress levels, and boosting your mood. Working out on a regular basis even appears to lower your risk for Alzheimer’s.
Many seniors are intimidated by exercising, especially if they never have worked out before, haven’t worked out in a long time, or have a health condition. You should always check with your doctor first, but there are several great options for easing into an exercise regimen. Think about something low-impact, such as swimming, stability ball exercises, or walking. You can even take a class, which has the bonus benefit of socializing. Consider aquarobics, no-fall volleyball, or gentle yoga. Pick something you’ll look forward to doing, and have fun!
Enjoy Hobbies
When is the last time you leapt into a new activity? It turns out taking up a hobby offers a number of key health perks, such as boosting creativity, broadening your experiences, helping you to focus, and encouraging a more positive outlook. Hobbies even give you a sense of control over your life, since it’s something you do for yourself; gardening, woodworking, photography, or painting are just a few ideas. Is there anything you always wanted to try? Or, maybe a buddy you want to spend more time with? Weigh your options, and dive in.
Add a Furry Friend
Having a pet to come home to and share adventures with can make a big difference in your life. As Parent Giving explains, a furry companion can actually mean improved health. Pets can help seniors stay more active, feel less lonely, and add to a sense of purpose in life. Fido or Fifi can even potentially help lower your blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and lower your risk for heart disease. To feel even better about your decision, why not consider adopting a pet in need? It’s a chance to save an animal’s life and allows the shelter or rescue to help another animal in need. What’s more, these animals often have some training and come to you with their veterinary care up-to-date. You can search online for pets available near you.
Growing older doesn’t have to mean a loss of energy, health, or happiness. If your life has lost some of its brilliance, there is much you can do to turn things around. With a few smart changes, you can bring the zest back into your life.
Jason Lewis is a personal trainer, and in 2002 he became the primary caretaker for his mother after her surgery. During this time he realized there is a special need for trainers that can assist the seniors in our community. Jason worked with his mother’s doctor, as well as other personal trainers, to create programs that are considerate to the special health needs of those over the age of 65. Visit him online at strongwell.org.
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