There’s no fountain of youth or magic pill we can take to stop the onward march of time. There are, however, plenty of things you can do to stay in shape—physically and mentally—to make growing old a little less onerous.
Say ohm. Stress can cause physical signs of aging. To help you achieve a calmer state of mind, try meditating for 10 minutes a day. There are tons of apps, like Buddhify, Meditation Timer Pro and Omvana, to guide your way. Other ways to destress: a glass of heart-healthy red wine or regular yoga
sessions.
Get moving. By now you’ve heard of all the physical benefits of exercise: a trim figure, toned muscles, healthy bones and glowing skin. But the benefits extend into the mental, too. Regular movement can boost mood, improve your sleep and help you think clearly. Be sure to incorporate both weight-bearing and cardiovascular exercises to get the most out of it.
Get out and play. To ensure emotional well-being, stay socially active with friends and family. Engage in a hobby, or volunteer at local nonprofits.
Stretch it out. Over the years, muscles become less flexible. Add yoga or Pilates into your regular routine to keep limber, strengthen your core and maintain good balance.
Consume fat—the good kind. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are in foods like salmon, walnuts and seeds, deliver a host of benefits, including increased bone strength and reduced inflammation.
Brew a cup. Green tea, which is high in antioxidants and nutrients, has been shown to prevent cell damage, according to WebMD. The brew also can improve blood flow, lower cancer risks and help regulate metabolism.
Use it or lose it. Your brain needs regular stimulation to keep sharp. Engage it with crossword puzzles, sudoku or a challenging book.
Slather on the sunscreen. Your skin is your largest organ, so taking care of it should be a top priority. Use a daily broadspectrum SPF moisturizer, and eat plenty of brightly colored fruits and vegetables to maintain high antioxidant and vitamin levels.