It is inevitable that people grow old and develop aging– related symptoms. Your skin will wrinkle, your hair will turn gray, and despite your best efforts, a new candle will be added to your birthday cake every year. However, you don’t have to feel old just because you’re getting older. It seems like a big deal when you turn 40, and that’s because it is so. In fact, this could be the start of your best decade. When you’re in your 40s, your career is taking off, you’re aware of your goals in life, and you may even be most confident about yourself. The important thing to remember is habits, thoughts and your lifestyle determines your results, not your age. (Also read: Health tips for women over 40: Change your lifestyle and diet to make sure your 40s are 20s )
Won Dolegowski, Certified Health Coach and Nutrition Consultant, recommended eight ways to look and feel your best in your 40s and older, in her recent Instagram post.
1. Weight lifting
This goes beyond aesthetics and “good looking”. It’s about being strong so you can be healthy and independent as you get older. This is the Fountain of Youth.
2. Walking
Walking is so underrated but so important and beneficial. This requires no special equipment, can be done anywhere, and is low-impact. This is one of the best things you can do to improve your longevity and health.
3. Prioritize sleep
Every aspect of your life improves when this is optimized. Every aspect of your life is affected when this is sacrificed. Exposure to sunlight in the morning to optimize your sleep. Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night.
4. Reduce/eliminate alcohol
Alcohol has far-reaching effects on your brain, body and health. It impacts sleep, performance, mood, cognitive function, gut health, hormones, blood sugar and more.
5. Eat nutrient-dense whole foods
It’s not all about “if it’s right for your macro”. The quality of your food is very important. How you supplement your diet matters. Watch your sugar and snack cravings subside. Have a protein-focused meal with a balance of carbs, fats, and micronutrients. Aim for 14 grams of fiber for every 1000 calories.
6. Stop obsessing about scale
Once you can ignore this number, you will discover that there are more important and meaningful things in your life. Allow your body to change and grow. Find other ways to measure progress that have nothing to do with how you look or how small you are.
7. Don’t think it’s too late and you’re too old
This is one of the biggest things holding you back. You can achieve some pretty amazing things in your 40s and beyond. You just have to be willing to do things differently and do it even when you’re scared.
8. Practice Gratitude
Instead of being fixated on the things you don’t have or can’t do, or be bitter about the things you can’t control, be grateful that there are countless good things in your life. Acknowledge the blessings you have. Be grateful for how your body shows you every day, not just for how it looks.
