Stephen Jones, M.D., board-certified geriatric medicine specialist says the following seven steps will dramatically increase your chances to make it to 100 in good health:
1. Take control of
stress. When you’re under stress, your body releases cortisol, known as “the
stress hormone.” Cortisol accelerates your bodily processes, speeding up aging.
Focus on relaxation in your daily life. Events themselves are not stressful –
it is your response that makes you tense. For example, if you’re stuck in
traffic, don’t spend the time whipping yourself into road rage. Instead, listen
to the radio, meditate, or pray – you’ll get there in the same amount of time,
but you won’t be stressed out.
2. Get plenty of
sleep. There is a myth that older people need less sleep. But adults need seven
or eight hours, no matter their age. However, as you age deep, restorative
sleep becomes more elusive. A few hours before bedtime, avoid caffeine or alcohol,
relax quietly, and avoid activities that are stressful or require high
alertness. Investing in a good-quality mattress and bed linens can also make a
difference.
3. Laugh a lot. A
good belly laugh reduces blood pressure, clears the lungs, and produces endorphins,
the so-called “happy” hormone that reduces pain. The average child laughs 300
times a day. Adults: 17 times. Research shows that keeping laughter alive keeps
you alive. Make it priority to look for humor in life.
4. Exercise daily.
Your body craves movement. The worst thing you can do for your health is sit
around and do nothing. Even if you’re 80, it’s never too late to start
exercising, research shows. In fact, exercise benefits “late bloomers,” even
more than people who have been active their entire lives. That’s why someone
who is 80 and starts a conditioning program can suddenly put on some muscle.
The mistake people make is in treating exercise like it’s torture. The key is
finding an activity you enjoy and making it part of your routine.
5. Find a
companion. Studies show that people live longer if they are married, part of a
couple, have close friends, or have pets. Make it a goal to meet people.
Volunteer at church or community groups. Don’t be afraid to be alone, but
beware of social isolation.
6. Use your brain. Years ago, doctors
believed that, unlike other organs, the brain could not regenerate. Now we know
this is not true. Important connections between brain cells can be
re-established. When your brain is stimulated, more connections are made, no
matter your age. Stimulate your brain by learning new things. Take up a new
hobby, learn a new language, or just break out of your routine. Take a
different route home, explore a different neighborhood, and try eating with
your left hand instead of your right.
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| May 15, 2013 |
Appreciation 4 Thickness
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| DONE |
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