I (Litsa) found this list of “10 Golden Rules of Successful Aging” in an issue of Martha Stewart Living and was instantly drawn into reading it. I must say that I agree! Thus, I’m sharing the list with you and my personal notations (in parentheses) next to each rule!
Genes account for only about 15 percent of your health and longevity; the rest is influenced by where and how you live. These are two factors that you can control, starting now! The following rules for healthy living will help you achieve optional health.
1. Eat well. (Fruits, vegetables, protein—I strive for less than 10% of processed foods!!)
2. Maintain a healthy weight. (Look for how you feel—not numbers! I am at an ideal weight right now but it’s not enough to see a good number on a scale. I need to feel healthy—glowing!)
3. Stay physically active. (Walking, running, kicking the ball around, dancing, yoga, jumping jacks—just move! These are a few of my movements throughout my week as a mom of a five year old. Two years ago, I quit waiting for someone to move with me—I started strolling my toddler and found inner peace in my own rhythms with nature! I can’t live without my time outdoors!)
4. Get quality sleep. (At least 8 hours—love to sleep in a cool, dark room snuggled under the covers….and this summer while traveling in Greece, I get a siesta hour or more each day. Naptime for adults too! Who’s complaining? Not me.)
5. Wear sunscreen. (Spray it on. Smooth it on. Keep a tube nearby—don’t forget the tops of your hands while driving.)
6. Collaborate with a good primary-care doctor regularly. (I must make a checklist for myself. I never miss an appointment for my five year old but sometimes I tend to skip my own appointments due to time restraints in my own schedule. Nearing 40 now…..thus, a MUST to keep better tabs on myself!)
7. Find your passion. (I love writing, reading, creating, savings/deals & more——-family time and, and, and….life is so full of possibilities!).
8. Connect with others. (…..and people! I love to connect and collaborate with others. I love the give and take between two people—-lunch with a friend, walks, talks, coffee-time—I’m in always especially if I’ve had my alone time (which I need and desire too).)
9. Stop complaining—change what you can, and accept what you cannot. (I’m working on this rule. My husband has helped me focus on this over the years. In living in the moment (not planning), I find the most contentment and the older I get, I tend to accept. I voice that what I don’t like aloud and/or silently but then move on—-I don’t allow anything to slow me down.)
10. Stay curious. (Questions! They pop in my head about everything! I want to know it all and learn it all even though my brain stays on overload!)
How about you? Do you like these 10 golden rules of successful aging and what are your own thoughts on each? Start where you are and embrace the golden rules—–
Together, let’s age successfully!
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