How to stay looking and feeling younger as the years go by, is a question that has been asked by many of us. You may not be able to avoid ageing, but there are certainly ways to ensure it takes less of a toll on your body and mind. Try these simple, all-natural ways to slow down the ageing process and keep a youthful spring in your step.
Ways to Stay Looking and Feeling Younger
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise has a multitude of benefits, including keeping you looking and feeling younger. As well as helping you maintain a healthy weight, it will keep your bones healthier and tone your muscles, preventing some of the sagging that typically comes with ageing. The NHS recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week – which includes fast walking, jogging or cycling – and doing strength exercises on two or more days to work all the major muscles.
Try Yoga
All forms of exercise have their advantages, but yoga can be particularly beneficial thanks to its equal focus on both the body and the mind. It’ll help your body preserve some youthful strength, flexibility and balance. The results of some studies have even suggested that yoga slows down the ageing process by improving key factors in your physical health.
Consume Plenty of Healthy Fats
Good fats should be a significant part of your diet, especially omega-3 fatty acids, which are mostly found in fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines. Walnuts are also a great source of omega-3s. These healthy fats help you maintain bone strength and reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to delay some of the visible signs of ageing. They’re also great for the brain, boosting your mood and decreasing your risk of depression.
Snack on Fruit
Fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, all of which will have a real positive impact on your body. Certain antioxidants that are often found in fruit, such as vitamin C and resveratrol, can even help to keep your skin looking younger, reducing wrinkles and fine lines.
Drink Green Tea
Like certain fruits, green tea contains powerful antioxidants which protect the skin from cell-damaging free radicals that can break down levels of collagen in the skin. Try drinking a cup or two a day to help your skin maintain its elasticity and youthful suppleness.
Give Yourself a Break
Research has shown that stress can have a harmful effect on critical DNA in the cells, causing early signs of ageing. While the pressures of work and family life can be difficult to deal with sometimes, it’s important to find effective ways to de-stress for the sake of your physical and emotional health. Try meditating or practising breathing exercises in a quiet place. Alternatively, exercise can be a great way to release stress and anxiety, or you might have a hobby that you find soothing.
Keep Your Body Hydrated
It is vitally important for your overall health that you keep your body hydrated. One of the fastest and easiest ways of doing this is by drinking water. Make it a habit to carry a bottle of water around with you when you are out and about and take regular sips. Keep a bottle or glass to hand at home and get into the habit of drinking small amounts at regular intervals. Remember that some foods also contain large amounts of water and can contribute to your daily fluid intake. Good examples include yoghurt, soups, stews, fruit and vegetables so try to include these in your diet.
Slather Your Skin with Supplements
Retinol – a type of vitamin A – is considered the most effective over-the-counter anti-ageing skincare treatment. It rejuvenates the skin by enhancing cell growth, which plumps the skin, making it look smoother and brighter. It reduces fine lines, improves skin texture, tightens pores and generally gives your complexion a boost of radiance. Next time you’re shopping for face creams, look for products containing retinols and see the effects for yourself.
Do Mental Aerobics
Unfortunately, ageing can come with cognitive decline for some. The good news is that studies have shown brain exercises can help to prevent or delay mental decline. Try to fit in a little mental training each day with exercises such as crossword puzzles and Sudoku. There are also an increasing number of brain training apps becoming available, so see if you can download some on your smartphone.
You don’t need to make radical changes to your lifestyle to reduce the signs of ageing – small alterations to your daily routine can have a surprising impact. The best way to stay looking and feeling younger is to keep your body and brain active, and there are plenty of ways to do this. Find mental and physical activities you enjoy and they’ll be easy to fit into your routine, and remember the importance of a healthy, nutritious diet.
