10 Habits to Slow Down Aging

For centuries, people have searched for ways to stay young. Sadly, aging is inevitable but some things can help slow down aging. It turns out, that while getting older plays a role, other factors are significant in maintaining good overall health. Whether it’s physical or mental, there are some things one can do to keep a sharp mind, a healthy body, and younger-looking skin.

1. Start Early to Slow Down Aging

Most people spend their younger years partaking in activities that can cause long-term damage, such as long sleepless nights, dabbling with substances, eating processed foods, or over-exertion during physical activities. However, we often don’t realize the damage is being done because our bodies are astonishingly resilient when we’re young. Therefore, you’ll increase your chances of slowing down aging the earlier you start a healthy lifestyle.

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2. Health Starts with Diet

Our bodies are fueled every day by what we eat. As such, it makes sense that diet would play a role in helping to slow down aging. For instance, a minimally processed and nutrient-rich diet will give skin what it needs to stay hydrated, nourished, and balanced. Essentially trying to eat a rainbow; a wide range of colorful fruits and veggies, every day will help slow down aging and improve your overall health and well-being. Moreover, a healthy diet has been shown to help maintain mental and physical health and provide much-needed energy throughout the day.

3. Stay Active to Slow Down Aging

Studies have shown that getting at least a few hours a week of exercise can reduce the risk of several illnesses. While some abilities may vary based on other health concerns, the average person should get “150 minutes” or 2 and 1/2 hours, according to Cleveland Clinic, and includes a balance of strength training and cardio. Running is often the first thing people think of when they hear cardio, and it’s not a very popular activity. Luckily, something like going for a brisk walk can substitute, but consider taking longer walks to get similar results. Additionally, stretching or doing Yoga and Tai Chi can improve flexibility and mobility.

4. Stay Hydrated to Slow Down Aging

All living beings thrive on water, ourselves included. Therefore, it’s no surprise that staying hydrated will help maintain healthy life and slow down aging. Here are a few amazing benefits of staying hydrated:

• Water helps carry oxygen and vital nutrients throughout our bodies.
• It helps maintain the skin’s barrier to prevent skin disorders and balance natural oil production.
• It cushions the joints and vital parts of the body like the brain and spinal cord.
• Water prevents the airways from becoming “restricted,” according to Medical News Today.

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5. Get Rest

Although life’s hustle and bustle makes it difficult to stay consistently well-rested, it makes a difference to help you get through the day and slow down aging. The Sleep Foundation shares several functions that improve with a good night’s sleep. Some include:

• A good night’s rest leads to improved memory and concentration.
• It helps regulate emotions and decision-making skills.
• Regulates hormone production so damaged tissues in the body can heal.
• It helps the body fight off infections and other illnesses.

6. Stress Management is a Key Aspect

Stress releases chemicals like cortisol and in high amounts, they wreak havoc on the body, having been linked to some forms of cancer. Luckily, exercise, and a solid support system including a mix of loved ones and trained counselors, are both great ways to manage stress. Other options include:

• Create a healthy work-home life balance.
• Keep a To-do list on the fridge to help you stay organized.
• Minimize taking on too many projects or agreeing to multiple commitments at a time.
• Make time to do things you enjoy to offer a few moments of renewal.
• Find new hobbies and things you enjoy.

7. Care for Your Teeth

Unhealthy teeth make you look older and more susceptible to certain illnesses, which may also make you look older. Instead, you can slow down aging, at least in appearance, by maintaining a healthy and well-maintained smile, complete with brushing twice daily, mouthwash, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist. Moreover, limiting the use of alcohol, tobacco, coffee, or tea can also help slow down aging by preventing staining.

8. Keep an Active Mind

Keeping an active mind is another great way to slow down aging because healthy brain function is essential for overall health. You can try the usual recommendations like doing puzzles or brain teasers, picking up new skills, and taking classes. Alternatively, here are some less common, scientifically-backed ways to maintain brain function and slow down aging.

• Meditation
• Visualization
• Playing cards, board games, and possibly video games.
• Socializing
• Listening to or playing music
• Hobbies that require the use of fine and gross motor skills like dancing or drawing

9. Care for Skin to Slow Down Aging

Having a proper skincare routine is another way to slow down aging. It’s important to remember everyone’s skin needs are different so trying different products or speaking with a dermatologist will help you establish a skin-care routine that works best for your specific needs. However, you can’t go wrong with a gentle cleanser and a reliable moisturizer with SPF to protect from UV damage and prevent premature wrinkles.

10. Avoid Repetition to Slow Down Aging

Making repetitive facial expressions can lead to premature aging and wrinkles. “When you make a facial expression, you contract the underlying muscles. If you repeatedly contract the same muscles for many years, these lines become permanent,” according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. “Wearing sunglasses can help reduce lines caused by squinting.”

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