5 Tips to Help You Overcome Fears of Aging
Have you looked in the mirror and noticed wrinkles, dark spots and fine lines? Aging is a natural part of life, of which you shouldn’t feel ashamed. However, it’s also natural to feel a bit scared of the changes your body will ensure. Overcome the fears of getting older with these five essential self-care tips.
stay hydrated
Skin hydration is essential as you age. One study found that participants with high sodium levels in their bodies — indicating dehydration — are more likely to develop chronic diseases as they get older. They also look older than they actually are.
Drinking enough water can help clear toxins from the body. Fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cucumber and broccoli, are other sources of healthy fluids to maintain supple skin.
eat nutritious foods
Skin imperfections become a substantial worry when you reach your 30s. Proper nutrition does wonders for the skin and overall well-being. Healthy foods supply the body with vitamins and minerals to repair, stay robust and avoid diseases.
An ideal diet should contain less sugar, sodium and saturated fats and more wholesome and fresh choices. The USDA recommends three eating plans that meet health requirements — U.S. style, Mediterranean and vegetarian. They all highlight variations in fruits, vegetables, seafood, whole grains and select meats.
get moving
The health benefits of physical activities in aging people are well-documented. Doing at least 30 minutes of daily exercise can keep your bones intact, maintain body flexibility and minimize your risk for mental health problems.
If you fear aging because of losing your independence or getting a serious illness, a 150-minute weekly exercise can help minimize these concerns. Engaging in fitness can make you strong and subsequently prolong your independence and reduce the risk of ailments. Make daily training social by participating in group fitness classes.
get enough sleep
Adults need seven to nine hours of sleep, but quality and uninterrupted rest is harder to achieve as you grow old. Worries about work, responsibilities and daily life problems make it challenging to calm the mind when night comes. This leads to reduced quality and nonrestorative sleep.
Consult an expert if sleeping troubles start to impact your daily life. Establishing good sleep hygiene, such as regulating your bedtime schedule and improving your bedroom environment, helps promote deep rest.
practice gratitude
Gerascophobia is the term for the fear of aging. Practicing gratitude helps overcome distressing feelings about growing old. You allow your mind to focus on the present by activating grateful feelings. As a result, you forget your worries about the future, including aging.
Cultivating gratitude as a habit through journaling, meditation or mindfulness can also reduce stress, boost your mood and make you happier.
conquer your fears of aging and live more joyfully
Age is just a number, and aging is a natural phenomenon you should embrace happily. Growing old is a privilege for select people, so care for your body and move through aging gracefully. You face losses and downsides when you age, but life is a beautiful gift you should cherish.
Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She has a passion for writing about ways to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life, especially for new moms.