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“Aging gracefully isn’t about trying to look like a 20-something — it’s about living your best life and having the physical and mental health to enjoy it. Like a bottle of wine, you can get better with age with the right care. It’s natural to worry about the challenges that aging can bring, so don’t hesitate to speak to someone about your concerns.

Use these tips to help you age gracefully from the inside out.

Be kind to your skin

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. If you treat it with care, it can better protect your body from the elements, regulate your body temperature, and provide sensation. To keep it looking and functioning at its best:

• Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when outside.
• Get yearly skin cancer screenings.
• Stick to gentle products in your anti-aging skin care routine.
• Stay hydrated.

Stay physically active

Some options to stay active are going on walks and hikes, taking vacations, and participating in group exercise classes. Regular exercise significantly lowers your risk of diseases, such as heart disease and cancer, and helps you retain your mobility longer. Exercise also lowers stress and improves sleep, skin and bone health, and mood. Older adults should also focus on activities that include balance training in addition to aerobic and muscle strengthening exercises.

Mental health matters

Being happy and keeping your stress down goes a long way in helping you live and age well. To keep your mood elevated:

• Spend time with friends and loved ones. Meaningful relationships and a strong social network improve mental and physical well-being and longevity. Don’t forget your furry loved ones as having a pet has been linked to lower stress and blood pressure, reduced loneliness, and better moods.
• Accept your age. There is evidence that people who maintain a positive attitude about aging live longer and may recover better from a disability. Aging is inevitable and learning to embrace it can make all the difference.
• Do things you enjoy. Taking the time to engage in activities you enjoy will only fuel your happiness. Spend time in nature, pursue a new hobby, volunteer — whatever brings you joy.

Lower your stress

The effects of stress on your body are vast, ranging from premature aging and wrinkles to a higher risk of heart disease. There are a number of proven ways to relieve stress, including:

• using relaxation techniques, such as meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga
• exercising
• getting adequate sleep
• talking to a friend

Get enough sleep

Good sleep is important for your physical and mental health. It also plays a role in your skin’s health. How much sleep you need depends on your age. Adults over 18 should aim for seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Getting enough sleep has been proven to:

• lower the risk of heart disease and stroke
• reduce stress and depression
• lower the risk of obesity
• reduce inflammation
• improve focus and concentration“

Read the complete article here.

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