Aging is an inevitable part of life. And it’s easy to think we have little control over it. But the everyday choices we make and even how we think about aging might actually play a huge part.
It’s also rarely too late to start building small, consistent habits that may help support your body and life for years to come. And no, you don’t need to be as precise as Bryan Johnson to live longer and better. Below are our top tips for improving your health and wellness at any age.
1. Try Exercise “Snacks”
Of all the habits that shape how we age, physical activity might be the most powerful and the most within your control. Yes, we’ve all heard this before. Yet, a mostly sedentary routine, maintained over time, is linked to poorer physical and mental health later in life. This means movement should never be overlooked.
The good news is that every little bit adds up. You don’t need to run a marathon or anything overly complicated. Small, regular changes actually compound in your favour. These may include:
- Walking for 5-10 minutes every hour you sit.
- Taking the stairs instead of the lift.
- Cycling to work instead of driving (if within a reasonable distance).
- Getting off public transportation a stop early.
- Performing 5 squats every time you go through your office doorway.
- Doing a minute of jumping jacks.
- Dancing to your favourite song.
Again, every little bit counts! It might not seem like much, but tiny movements here and there matter.
2. Remove or Limit the “Bad” Habits
A 30-year study tracked smoking and heavy drinking alongside inactivity; researchers found that the longer these habits persisted, the stronger their link to poorer outcomes, including lower well-being and increased metabolic risk factors.
While this might seem obvious, drinking or smoking may often feel manageable until the years accumulate. However, if you make a persistent effort to cut back early, you may add years to your life. Not only that, but you may also make room for more healthy habits.
3. Rethink What You Believe About Aging
Did you know your attitude about aging might impact how you age?
A large Yale study following adults aged 65 and over found that those who started out with more positive beliefs about aging were significantly more likely to improve their mental and physical health. In turn, this is likely to have a positive impact on longevity and overall well-being.
So, the takeaway here is to challenge any negative perceptions you may have about aging. For example, instead of thinking you’re not able to do a push-up, you could decide that you’re not able to do it yet. In turn, you’re telling your subconscious mind that it’s possible for you to be able to perform this skill in the future, and you may be more likely to work toward that end goal, no matter your age!
Another really easy mindset shift is where you place your attention. Instead of dwelling only on what’s changed, notice what your body can still do and keep building on that.
It’s Never Too Late!
Perhaps the most reassuring theme is that the benefits aren’t reserved for the young. The researchers behind the 30-year study concluded that addressing these habits in adulthood and midlife is one of the most powerful things you can do to protect your future health. But still, starting any time will likely lead to some benefits.
After all, aging is the sum of many small, consistent choices. However, stiffness, aches, or nagging pain are often the very things that may keep you from moving toward your health goals. At Posture & Wellness, we’re here to help. Book your FREE discovery call with our Finsbury Park team today. BOOK NOW.