ÔLONGEVITY: PLANNING
AHEAD FOR A QUALITY LIFEÕ
Of all the
priorities you have in your life, what could be more important than promoting
the quality of your life? Statistics show that we are living much longer than
just a few decades ago- no one wants to live an infirmed life devoid of
quality. Here are five proven steps that will help you accomplish this.
Improve Your Attitude Toward Life
Sometimes life has a
way of throwing us one curve ball after another. The attitude you bring to your
troubles will not only help you resolve them but keeps your body from producing
unwanted high levels of stress hormones that are a known factor in the aging
process. A habitually cheerful outlook can actually boost your immune system
and reduce the probability of contracting various chronic degenerative
diseases.
Quality Longevity Through Quality Nutrition
Cutting calorie
input is probably one of the most important factors in improving health and
longevity. Obesity is a leading cause of high blood pressure, heart disease, increased
incidence of cancer and diabetes- all killers. A diet rich in fruits and
vegetables, quality whole grains, minimal amounts of meat along with a pure
clean source of water will add life to your years and years to your life.
Reduce Unnecessary Everyday Stress
Most of us are aware
of what pushes our buttons. When you detect yourself becoming stressed, step
back and examine the situation.
Some of them we can
do something about, others we canÕt. CanÕt lock the kids out of the house, but
you can work on an accepting attitude that will help you deal. Just being aware
of your stressors is a major step in reducing or eliminating them.
Develop the Habit of Daily Exercise
Physical inactivity
causes muscle loss- including loss of heart muscle, poor oxygenation of the
tissues and brain, lack of energy and vitality and a weakened immunity. All of
these factors lead to a shorter life with less quality. You donÕt have to be a
body builder, regular walking and some sort or aerobic exercise with resistance
training 3 times weekly will keep all of your muscles toned and conditioned,
reduce weight and bring quality to your years.
ItÕs Time To Give Up Those Nasty Habits
Eliminating smoking
is one of the single most important factors in reducing the risk of serious life
altering disease. The average smoker lives a life 5-10 years shorter than a non
smoker and will spend 18% more time sick and spend 25% more money in end of
life medical care.
More than moderate
alcohol consumption contributes to some 3% of all deaths. Over use of alcohol
has been directly linked to colon cancer, liver disease, stomach ulcers,
depression and social isolation.
Reckless and fast
driving a habit many us formed in our youth needs to be replaced with defensive
safe driving techniques. Reaction time and sensory input slows as we age
leaving us with less time to react and more vulnerable to serious injury due to
automobile accidents.
In planning out your
older years remember that what you do in this decade will add up in the next,
be they good or bad habits. These simple habits can bring you more joy, quality
and peace in your aging years. Till next time, Rebecca