4 Ways To Look And Feel Young

It’s on the mind of every person over 45, and somewhere in the back of the mind of every person who will someday be 45 — the effects of getting older. Lines around the eyes, failing health, changes in physique and figure — the results of getting older are not necessarily appealing to most men and women.

Other than hunting down the fabled fountain of youth or seeking after a magical elixir of immortal life, there are a few simpler and easier things you can do to help keep you looking and feeling young.

Exercise

Sitting on the couch and being lazy might make you temporarily happy and relaxed, but it won’t add any years to your life. On the contrary, being sedentary can likely take a significant chunk out of your life expectancy. If you want to stay young and still live a long life, you need to get up and get moving. Your options range far and wide: look into getting a gym membership, go for a walk around the neighborhood, buy a pair of rollerblades, browse the Internet for Yoga or Kickboxing videos, do lunges around your living room, etc. Get your body moving and your heart pumping and you’ll be less likely to feel and show the effects of aging.

Eat Well

It really is true that you are what you eat. If you eat junk and fill your body with junk, your body is going to look and feel like junk. Eat less fast food and more vegetables. Drink less soda and more water. Choose whole-grain instead of white or refined products.

Overall, cut back on processed foods and avoid anything fried. Opt for a salad now and again instead of a greasy slice of pizza and your body will thank you. Not only will you feel and look younger longer, but you’ll feel better now.

Protect Your Skin

Wrinkles and aging spots are one of the most immediately obvious ways our bodies show the effects of age. How can you avoid this common issue? First, put sunscreen on! Cover your face, lips, neck, ears, arms, and any other commonly exposed skin if you’re going to be outside for any amount of time in the sun.

If you’re participating in water activity, reapply sunscreen every couple hours. When possible, wear a hat or clothing that shades your face and arms from direct sunlight. And at all costs, avoid tanning beds — not only will it make you look older, but the cancer risk isn’t worth a tan.

Practice Good Hygiene

It’s pretty simple: brush your teeth, clean between your toes, wash your hands, etc. Keep the germs off your body and you’re less likely to get sick. And when you do get sick, rest! Take it easy, take the appropriate medication, and let your body heal. Avoiding illness and keeping your immune system in good order is a great way to avoid the effects of aging.

And don’t forget to floss — poor gum health contributes to poor heart health, which is the leading cause of death in the United States.