TORONTO, June 9 -- Too many people are more than aware of the aging process and all its telltale signs, from physical evidences (stiffness and aches, tight waistbands, and furrowed faces) to emotional ones, like the erratic highs and lows, bouts of anxiety, lack of sleep and chronic stress.
But then there are those of us who move into different phases of life with vim and vigor. So how do we do it? Focus on and commit to these few simple solutions.
1. Cultivate healthier food choices.
Review your meals and food choices. Pick an area or two to improve. Up your veggie intake by two or three servings a day. Bypass the pop and juice. Opt for herbal tea or a glass of water with fresh squeezed lemon or lime. Bake and broil meats rather than frying.
Starting the day with a cup of coffee and a bagel? Ditch it. Take three minutes out of your day and make a breakfast smoothie (whey protein, milk and fresh/frozen fruit) to ensure you start the day off right. It provides a nutritious, quick breakfast to kick start your metabolism, support health and immunity.
Kick it up a notch with a daily supplement of omega-3 fish oil rich in EPA and DHA. The essential fatty acids have a plethora of health benefits. They improve mood, support brain and cognitive health, cardiovascular health and vision. And they're anti- inflammatory in nature which can also aid joint health (arthritis, aches and pain) and support weight loss.
2. Cultivate a stress-free lifestyle.
Chronic stress creates havoc in our life and on our body. Effects include irritability, lack of sleep, and loss of sex drive to name only a few. Furthermore, research reveals that greater life stress and stress reactivity can contribute to central (abdominal) fat. Consider a few supplements to improve symptoms of stress. They may include theanine, GABA, 5-HTP, passionflower, St John's wort.
3. Cultivate laughter.
Find it. Develop it and use it. It works. Laughter reduces the level of stress hormones. It's invigorating and energizing! Research shows laughter can improve general health and strengthen the immune system, reduce pain levels and food cravings. So much more, but those few benefits alone are a great start.
4. Cultivate body movement.
Forget exercise as we know it. Become active. Garden. Go for a walk, cut the lawn, walk your neighbor's dog.
5. Cultivate a healthy attitude.
Consider your cup half full. And always try looking on the bright side.
