Some of us cringe when we hear the words “the holidays". We picture ourselves drowning in a frenzy of wrapping paper, eggnog, and in-laws.
Sure, you love the holiday season - but just not so much of it! This year, you're hoping to cut the crazy out of Christmas: to trim the celebration back to one that is sustainable and calm.
Question is, just how do you do less - and enjoy it more - during the Christmas holiday season?
When my kids were growing up, Christmas was always a stressful time for me. Raising two special daughters added to the mix of craziness during this time, and I felt I could never truly enjoy the season. It seemed like I had so much to do between shopping, baking cookies, wrapping gifts, and attending Christmas gatherings.
I will never forget the time when my oldest daughter (a teenager at that time) and I were shopping right before the holidays. Christmas was always one of her favorite seasons and to see the stress in me really affected her. While we were shopping, she said to me with a kind smile, “Mom, can you please enjoy Christmas this year?” WOW!! That hit me like a rock. I never realized the impact that my stress had on her. After that incident, I changed my attitude and I have been enjoying Christmas ever since. Our kids watch us more than we know, so if you are like I was, think about the effect it is having on your kids. Changing your attitude will affect them for the good in the long run.
If you're aiming to simplify Christmas, take time to ponder ways to cut stress, save money, and tame over-the-top traditions. Setting simplicity strategies in place early will keep you from being swept up in holiday madness.
Stress is a physiological response. The part of our brain responsible for the stress response is the amygdala, an almond-shaped nucleus located in the temporal lobes that manages our memory, decision-making, and emotions. This part of our brain has been around since the stone age, back when having a stress response meant the difference between life and death in the wild. It acts as an alarm center and tends to serve as a thorough protective mechanism, leading to an overreaction to ensure that we get the message of inherent danger. The problem is that we no longer live in the wild. Living in this state of never-ending high alert no longer serves us, and in fact, fear and worry can hold us back.
So how can we stop stress in its tracks? The best way to do this is to use slow, deep breathing. It sounds simple, and it is. It is not the easiest thing in the heat of a stressful situation, but, with practice, one can reap the major benefits of this simple solution.
In addition, here are 5 other helpful tips for a stress-free holiday season:
Stress is a physiological response. The part of our brain responsible for the stress response is the amygdala, an almond-shaped nucleus located in the temporal lobes that manages our memory, decision-making, and emotions. This part of our brain has been around since the stone age, back when having a stress response meant the difference between life and death in the wild. It acts as an alarm center and tends to serve as a thorough protective mechanism, leading to an overreaction to ensure that we get the message of inherent danger. The problem is that we no longer live in the wild. Living in this state of never-ending high alert no longer serves us, and in fact, fear and worry can hold us back.
So how can we stop stress in its tracks? The best way to do this is to use slow, deep breathing. It sounds simple, and it is. It is not the easiest thing in the heat of a stressful situation, but, with practice, one can reap the major benefits of this simple solution.
In addition, here are 5 other helpful tips for a stress-free holiday season:
Take care of yourself first. Get plenty of rest, eat a well-balanced diet, do some form of activity, and carve out time for self-care. And remember to breathe. When we are stressed, we do not breathe deeply, which can amplify anxiety. If our bodies are houses, our health is the foundation. Imagine having a house without a floor. Lack of self-care leaves us vulnerable to getting sick and prone to getting more irritated by little things. Keep the foundation strong to be more effective and less stressed.
Plan ahead and do things in chunks. Do not feel the need to do everything in 1 day. Make a list and select 2 things that can be done each day leading up to the big day. This provides peace of mind. For example, purchase 3 candles for each niece or gloves for a son. If shopping in stores is overwhelming, shop online. This is what I do a lot. Break tasks down to more easily cross items off the to-do list.
Delegate tasks and get others to help. We cannot do everything alone. Can someone buy the turkey or the yams? Do the dishes? Clean the house? When we are pulled in so many directions, it becomes overwhelming. Minimize this by delegating.
Focus on experiences rather than things. So what if we get presents we do not want? Does it change the course of our lives if the mashed potatoes do not turn out perfectly? People will remember the experiences and how they felt, not the food or the fancy decorations. Take the kids ice skating and do something that does not require shopping or eating. Go for a drive and look at holiday decorations. Building memories is about the people we are with and the joy of the season.
Remember to laugh. Check out the movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Where else can we see a squirrel in a Christmas tree or the tree catching fire because of Uncle Lewis’ stogie? Being light-hearted can boost our moods, ease tension, and even improve memory, according to a recent study.
Plan ahead and do things in chunks. Do not feel the need to do everything in 1 day. Make a list and select 2 things that can be done each day leading up to the big day. This provides peace of mind. For example, purchase 3 candles for each niece or gloves for a son. If shopping in stores is overwhelming, shop online. This is what I do a lot. Break tasks down to more easily cross items off the to-do list.
Delegate tasks and get others to help. We cannot do everything alone. Can someone buy the turkey or the yams? Do the dishes? Clean the house? When we are pulled in so many directions, it becomes overwhelming. Minimize this by delegating.
Focus on experiences rather than things. So what if we get presents we do not want? Does it change the course of our lives if the mashed potatoes do not turn out perfectly? People will remember the experiences and how they felt, not the food or the fancy decorations. Take the kids ice skating and do something that does not require shopping or eating. Go for a drive and look at holiday decorations. Building memories is about the people we are with and the joy of the season.
Remember to laugh. Check out the movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Where else can we see a squirrel in a Christmas tree or the tree catching fire because of Uncle Lewis’ stogie? Being light-hearted can boost our moods, ease tension, and even improve memory, according to a recent study.
I hope this holiday season is filled with joy and peace for you and your family. Take time to pause and relax. You'll be glad you did!
So many today are talking about the importance of antioxidants for healthy living. I never really knew how important they were until I started learning more about it. Let’s dive in together and learn more about this.
What are they?
Antioxidants are molecules that fight free radicals in your body. Free radicals are compounds that can cause harm if their levels become too high in your body. They’re linked to multiple illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Your body has its own antioxidant defenses to keep free radicals in check. However, antioxidants are also found in food, especially in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based, whole foods. Several vitamins, such as vitamins E and C, are effective antioxidants. Antioxidant preservatives also play a crucial role in food production by increasing shelf life.
Many health professionals use antioxidants for treatments of stroke and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. They have also been helpful in treating brain injury and may slow and even prevent the development of cancers.
Where do we get them?
Truth be told, there's a huge variety of foods that eliminate cancer-causing free radicals and lead to better health. There are numerous choices for antioxidant-rich foods, but which ones are really the best? The USDA tested over 100 foods from all categories and developed an authoritative list of the top 20:
Small red beans
Wild blueberries
Red kidney beans
Pinto beans
Cultivated blueberries
Cranberries
Artichokes
Blackberries
Prunes
Raspberries
Strawberries
Red delicious apples
Granny Smith apples
Pecans
Sweet cherries
Black plums
Russet potatoes
Black beans
Plums
Gala apples
Dark leafy greens
Don't like any foods on the list? Not to worry. The American diabetic association has jumped on the bandwagon with their comprehensive guide to foods highest in antioxidants arranged by food groups:
Fruits
Many fruits are high in antioxidants, packed with vitamins, and beneficial in a myriad of ways. These include cranberries, red grapes, peaches, raspberries, strawberries, red currants, figs, cherries, pears, guava, oranges, apricots, mango, red grapes, cantaloupe, watermelon, papaya, and tomatoes.
Dried Fruits
With the water removed, the antioxidant ratio is higher in dried fruits than in fresh. They can easily be carried with you in your purse, briefcase, or car and they make a quick healthy snack. Consider taking along dried pears, plums, apples, peaches, figs, dates, and raisins. However, be careful of sugar content; avoid dried fruits that have processed sugars added to them to make them sweeter.
Vegetables
Didn't your mother always tell you to eat your vegetables? Broccoli, spinach, carrots, and potatoes are all high in antioxidants, and so are artichokes, cabbage, asparagus, avocados, beetroot, radish, lettuce, sweet potatoes, squash, pumpkin, collard greens, and kale.
Spices and Herbs
Using lots of spices in cooking is good. Many are loaded with antioxidants, like cinnamon, oregano, turmeric, cumin, parsley, basil, curry powder, mustard seed, ginger, pepper, chili powder, paprika, garlic, coriander, onion, and cardamom. Herbs include sage, thyme, marjoram, tarragon, peppermint, oregano, savory, basil, and dill weed. All contribute complexity and flavor to your meals but also are high in antioxidants.
Cereals and Nuts
Your morning corn flakes, oatmeal, and granola bars pack a healthy punch, as do walnuts, hazelnuts, pistachio nuts, almonds, cashews, macadamia nuts, and even that peanut butter sandwich.
Beverages
Contrary to popular belief, most of our antioxidants come from beverages. Apple juice, cider, tomato juice, pomegranate juice, and pink grapefruit juice seem obvious, and green tea has become very popular as a source, but black tea and plain tea have high levels also. Here's good news for those who love that cup of joe in the morning: coffee is high but should be consumed in moderation. Note that adding milk to coffee or tea blocks antioxidants. Speaking of moderation, red wine and especially beer (since it comes from grains) provide a big dose, and the health effects of moderate alcohol consumption have been well documented.
Remember to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables in a myriad of colors. Don't just focus on the top 2 or 3 choices. Foods with darker, richer colors like orange, yellow, blue, and red tend to be higher in antioxidants, and with all these choices, you'll never become bored or run out of delicious, nutritious options. Variety is the spice of life.
Young Living has a juice called “Ningxia Red”. This is a wolfberry juice that is very high in antioxidants and essential oils. Ningxia Red supports healthy blood sugar levels, increases energy and rejuvenates the body, helps support healthy bone structure, supports the immune system, and supports normal eye health.
Ningxia Red Ingredients: wolfberry juice, blueberry juice, pomegranate juice, aronia juice, cherry juice, plum juice, and grape seed extract. Ningxia Red also contains 4 essential oils: Yuzu, Lemon, Orange, and Tangerine. Take 2-4 oz daily.
If you want to learn more, hop on over to Freedom-n-Joy as this week I’m talking about all the benefits Ningxia Red can offer you.
When I first heard about CBD, I was curious and wanted to know more. I was interested because I heard that it may be beneficial for certain health issues. At times I deal with anxiety and joint issues, so hearing about CBD certainly had me interested. Perhaps some of you can relate. Read on to find out more!
Cannabidiol is a popular natural remedy used for many common ailments. Better known as CBD, it is one of over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis or marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis and causes the sensation of getting “high” that’s often associated with marijuana. However, unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive. This quality makes CBD an appealing option for those who are looking for relief from pain and other symptoms without the mind-altering effects of marijuana or certain pharmaceutical drugs.
CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant, then diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil. It’s gaining momentum in the health and wellness world, with some scientific studies confirming it may ease symptoms of ailments like chronic pain and anxiety. Here are seven health benefits of CBD oil that are backed by scientific evidence.
May Relieve Pain
Marijuana has been used to treat pain as far back as 2900 B.C. More recently, scientists have discovered that certain components of marijuana, including CBD, are responsible for its pain-relieving effects.
The human body contains a specialized system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is involved in regulating a variety of functions including sleep, appetite, pain, and immune system response. The body produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in your nervous system. Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters.
Several human studies have found that a combination of CBD and THC is effective in treating pain related to multiple sclerosis and arthritis. An oral spray called Sativex, which is a combination of THC and CBD, is approved in several countries to treat pain related to multiple sclerosis. One study of 47 people with multiple sclerosis examined the effects of taking Sativex for one month. The participants experienced improvements in pain, walking, and muscle spasms. Still, the study didn’t include any control group and placebo effects cannot be ruled out. Another study found that Sativex significantly improved pain during movement, pain at rest, and sleep quality in 58 people with rheumatoid arthritis.
May Reduce Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are common mental health disorders that can have devastating impacts on health and well-being. According to the World Health Organization, depression is the single largest contributor to disability worldwide, while anxiety disorders are ranked sixth. Anxiety and depression are usually treated with pharmaceutical drugs, which can cause a number of side effects including drowsiness, agitation, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, and headache.
CBD oil has shown promise as a treatment for both depression and anxiety, leading many who live with these disorders to become interested in this natural approach. In one Brazilian study, 57 men received either oral CBD or a placebo 90 minutes before they underwent a simulated public speaking test. The researchers found that a 300-mg dose of CBD was the most effective at significantly reducing anxiety during the test. The placebo, a 150-mg dose of CBD, and a 600-mg dose of CBD had little to no effect on anxiety.
CBD oil has even been used to safely treat insomnia and anxiety in children with post-traumatic stress disorder.
May Alleviate Cancer-Related Symptoms
CBD may help reduce symptoms related to cancer and side effects related to cancer treatment, like nausea, vomiting, and pain. One study looked at the effects of CBD and THC in 177 people with cancer-related pain who did not experience relief from pain medication. Those treated with an extract containing both compounds experienced a significant reduction in pain compared to those who received only THC. CBD may also help reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, which are among the most common chemotherapy-related side effects for those with cancer. Though there are drugs that help with these distressing symptoms, they are sometimes ineffective, leading some people to seek alternatives.
A study of 16 people undergoing chemotherapy found that a one-to-one combination of CBD and THC administered via mouth spray reduced chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting better than standard treatment alone. Some test-tube and animal studies have even shown that CBD may have anticancer properties. For example, one test-tube study found that concentrated CBD induced cell death in human breast cancer cells. Another study showed that CBD inhibited the spread of aggressive breast cancer cells in mice. However, these are test-tube and animal studies, so they can only suggest what might work in people. More studies in humans are needed before conclusions can be made.
May Reduce Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that affects more than 9% of the population. It is thought to be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, bacteria, underlying inflammation, and the overproduction of sebum, an oily secretion made by sebaceous glands in the skin. Based on recent scientific studies, CBD oil may help treat acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to reduce sebum production. One test-tube study found that CBD oil prevented sebaceous gland cells from secreting excessive sebum, exerted anti-inflammatory actions, and prevented the activation of “pro-acne” agents like inflammatory cytokines.
Another study had similar findings, concluding that CBD may be an efficient and safe way to treat acne, thanks in part to its remarkable anti-inflammatory qualities. Though these results are promising, human studies exploring the effects of CBD on acne are needed.
May Have Neuroprotective Properties
Researchers believe that CBD’s ability to act on the endocannabinoid system and other brain signaling systems may provide benefits for those with neurological disorders. In fact, one of the most studied uses for CBD is in treating neurological disorders like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. Though research in this area is still relatively new, several studies have shown promising results.
Sativex, an oral spray consisting of CBD and THC, has been proven to be a safe and effective way to reduce muscle spasticity in people with multiple sclerosis. One study found that Sativex reduced spasms in 75% of 276 people with multiple sclerosis who were experiencing muscle spasticity that was resistant to medications. Another study gave 214 people with severe epilepsy 0.9–2.3 grams of CBD oil per pound (2–5 g/kg) of body weight. Their seizures reduced by a median of 36.5%. One more study found that CBD oil significantly reduced seizure activity in children with Dravet syndrome, a complex childhood epilepsy disorder, compared to a placebo. However, it’s important to note that some people in both these studies experienced adverse reactions associated with CBD treatment, such as convulsions, fever, and fatigue.
CBD has also been researched for its potential effectiveness in treating several other neurological diseases. For example, several studies have shown that treatment with CBD improved quality-of-life and sleep quality for people with Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, animal and test-tube studies have shown that CBD may decrease inflammation and help prevent the neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer’s disease. In one long-term study, researchers gave CBD to mice genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s disease, finding that it helped prevent cognitive decline.
May Benefit Heart Health
Recent research has linked CBD with several benefits for the heart and circulatory system, including the ability to lower high blood pressure. High blood pressure is linked to higher risks of a number of health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and metabolic syndrome. One recent study treated nine healthy men with one dose of 600 mg of CBD oil and found it reduced resting blood pressure, compared to a placebo. The same study also gave the men stress tests that normally increase blood pressure. Interestingly, the single dose of CBD led the men to experience a smaller blood pressure increase than normal in response to these tests. Researchers have suggested that the stress- and anxiety-reducing properties of CBD are responsible for its ability to help lower blood pressure.
Additionally, several animal studies have demonstrated that CBD may help reduce the inflammation and cell death associated with heart disease due to its powerful antioxidant and stress-reducing properties.
For example, one study found that treatment with CBD reduced oxidative stress and prevented heart damage in diabetic mice with heart disease.
May Have Several Other Potential Benefits
CBD has been studied for its role in treating a number of health issues other than those outlined above.
Though more studies are needed, CBD is thought to provide the following health benefits:
Antipsychotic effects: Studies suggest that CBD may help people with schizophrenia and other mental disorders by reducing psychotic symptoms.
Substance abuse treatment: CBD has been shown to modify circuits in the brain related to drug addiction. In rats, CBD has been shown to reduce morphine dependence and heroin-seeking behavior.
Anti-tumor effects: In test-tube and animal studies, CBD has demonstrated anti-tumor effects. In animals, it has been shown to prevent the spread of breast, prostate, brain, colon, and lung cancer.
Diabetes prevention: In diabetic mice, treatment with CBD reduced the incidence of diabetes by 56% and significantly reduced inflammation.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Though CBD is generally well tolerated and considered safe, it may cause adverse reactions in some people. Side effects noted in studies include diarrhea, changes in appetite and weight, and fatigue.
CBD is also known to interact with several medications. Before you start using CBD oil, discuss it with your doctor to ensure your safety, and avoid potentially harmful interactions. This is especially important if you take medications or supplements that come with a grapefruit warning. Both grapefruit and CBD interfere with cytochromes P450 (CYPs), a group of enzymes that are important to drug metabolism.
One study performed on mice showed that CBD-rich cannabis extracts have the potential to cause liver toxicity. However, some of the mice in the study were force-fed extremely large doses of the extract.
The Bottom Line
CBD oil has been studied for its potential role in easing symptoms of many common health issues, including anxiety, depression, acne, and heart disease. For those with cancer, it may even provide a natural alternative for pain and symptom relief.
Research on the potential health benefits of CBD oil is ongoing, so new therapeutic uses for this natural remedy are sure to be discovered. Though there is much to be learned about the efficacy and safety of CBD, results from recent studies suggest that CBD may provide a safe, powerful natural treatment for many health issues.
Is CBD Legal? Hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level but are still illegal under some state laws. Marijuana-derived CBD products are illegal on the federal level but are legal under some state laws. Check your state’s laws and those of anywhere you travel. Keep in mind that nonprescription CBD products are not FDA-approved and may be inaccurately labeled.
One of the biggest reasons people resist starting to eat healthy foods is they don’t want to give up the food they love. Yep…I will admit, I’m one of them. Many of us look at “healthy” food as something that isn’t tasty, desirable, or something we would love.
I mean, the thought of never having another pizza, coke, or cheesecake again can be a very difficult concept. This is especially true if you’re changing to a lifestyle where you’re just eating carrots and celery sticks and can only have bland chicken breast for dinner, right?
Except, there’s this one thing - it’s just not true.
As humans, we like to do things we enjoy. We like tasty food, riveting movies, and vacations that make us forget we’re all grown up. We don’t need our arms twisted to do what we love.
Then there’s washing laundry, filing paperwork, and mowing the lawn. Doing things we don’t enjoy – well, that takes some serious motivation. The incentive can come from liking clean clothes, needing to keep our jobs, and not wanting to require a machete to walk through the backyard.
What about eating healthy foods? When choosing rice cakes or kale, it’s not an easy decision. We may shy away from choosing the foods we know are good for our health for a number of reasons. But, at the core, our motives are about avoiding discomfort and seeking enjoyment. We magnify the challenge of changing our diet and downplay the consequences of staying the same.
We don’t want to eat healthy foods because we:
Fear the deprivation of our favorite foods;
Dread the obligation to eat boring health food;
Feel anxious about losing a coping mechanism;
Worry about the work required to make a change;
Convince ourselves that we can avoid health issues.
Sound familiar?
Today I’m going to share the top 10 benefits of a healthy diet, as well as the evidence behind it.
You'll be more productive
Just like your car, your brain needs quality fuel to run efficiently. One study found that eating unhealthy foods puts you at a 66 percent increased risk of productivity loss. Eating a healthy, balanced diet to make sure your brain has the fuel it needs means more energy and increased productivity at work.
You'll be happier
What we eat has an impact on our brains. Did you know bananas contains 10 milligrams of dopamine, a chief mood booster in the brain? Dark chocolate, packed with polyphenol, is also known to boost serotonin, a neurotransmitter that many antidepressants also target. You should see a doctor if you're seriously concerned about your moods, but for the rare gloomy day, try a dark chocolate covered banana.
You won't be as stressed
Certain foods have the ability to moderate our body's level of cortisol, the stress hormone. Some studies have found that foods packed with vitamin C, fatty acids, and magnesium to help reduce cortisol levels. When the body is in a chronic state of stress, it breaks down protein to prepare for battle. Eating a protein-rich diet, including fish and dairy, can help replenish protein stores and keep cortisol levels at bay.
You’ll control your weight
Simple healthy choices such as replacing soda with water, choosing carrots instead of chips, and ordering a side salad in place of fries not only will help you lose weight, it also can help you save money. The average household spends about $850 a year on soft drinks, which could easily be replaced with healthier - and free - water.
You’ll eat less
When it comes to eating healthier, quality trumps quantity. Fresh foods contain fewer low-nutrient fillers that the body burns through quickly. If you are buying and eating less food, then you will have more money in your pocket.
You’ll think it tastes better
Who would trade their Big Mac for a beet burger? Although taste is subjective, healthy food can taste delicious if it's prepared well. One study showed that people perceive healthy food as tasting better even if it doesn't. In a blind taste test, participants said organic coffee tasted better than regular coffee, even though the two cups were the same. So perhaps the beet burger is better after all -- even if it's only in your head.
You'll age better
Why pay for expensive and painful Botox procedures when you can improve your skin through your diet? Fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants can help protect your skin. The antioxidants in fresh berries and salmon's omega-3 fatty acids both help improve the health of your skin's cells and slow premature aging.
You'll be healthier
Unhealthy eating - especially over the long term - can be a risk factor for chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity and heart disease. If you miss out on too much of the protein, vitamins and minerals that your body needs, your muscle mass will decrease as your fat stores increase. Some estimates say at least 30% of cancers are linked to poor diet. One study of over 6,000 women found that those who ate the most cabbage, turnips, broccoli, cauliflower and kale had a lower risk of developing breast cancer after menopause.
You'll live longer
Healthy eating can help you avoid diseases that may lower your life expectancy. One study showed that a diet of fruit and vegetables, in combination with exercise, extended life expectancy for women in their 70s. Elsewhere, researchers reviewed a group of studies that suggest vegetarian or low-meat diets could help you live a longer life. And another study points to nuts as a way to reduce your risk of early death. No matter how you cut it, a healthy diet can play an important role in how long you'll live.
You'll save money
Many of the benefits of healthy eating contribute to potential savings. If you stay healthy, you'll have fewer medical bills to pay and by cutting back on food, you'll eat less and have fewer groceries to purchase. Save your body and your wallet and eat your greens today.
There’s no better time to start this journey than today! Don’t put off changing your habits until the New Year. Make up your mind today to begin moving in the right direction, and watch your body react in positive ways. Who is with me on this?!
We all grow older.
It’s the one thing that all humans share in common. And yet, so many of us fight this inevitability—we worry about how we’ll look, how we’ll feel, what we’ll do with our time, or when we’ll die. We perceive only our youth as a time of excitement, ambition, and hope. Growing older is often seen as an inevitably slow decline. But it doesn’t have to be that way! After all, as you grow older, you have the added benefit of experience, wisdom, and perspective. When done with intention, growing older can be a wonderful and enriching experience of aging gracefully.
In my 49th year, I felt a sense of dread and I was depressed that I was soon turning 50. It seemed like a huge jump from 49. I was going to be halfway to 100. When my parents were in their 50’s, I was only in my teens. At the time they seemed so old to me so whenever I would hear of someone turning 50, it felt old to me. The night before I turned 50, I told my husband that I do not want to wake up turning 50. I wanted to stay in my 40’s. On my 50th birthday, I was almost depressed. But a funny thing happened. Throughout that day, I received all kinds of birthday messages – I felt so loved and accepted! The day ended with my kids and husband making me feel so special. I came to my senses and realized that, yes, I was older but I was still alive and healthy! I had amazing friends and a family that loved me for who I was. No matter what age you are, the age is just a number. The important thing is being thankful for what you have. That day, and every day, I am blessed!
I’m 54 now and loving my life exactly as it is. I am so content with that I have. Today I have a home business that I love, and I’m working with people I actually care about. I have a wonderful, supportive husband, three beautiful daughters, a son-in-law, and a beautiful 4-month-old granddaughter. They all give me so much joy. I’m content in my fifties – a thought that would have made me hurl in my twenties.
Contentment is great - as is calm, tranquil, easygoing, relaxed, and chilled, dude. I know how I feel about most things in my life. I have definite opinions but I still try to learn more about myself and my world all the time. I try not to be one of those know-it-all old folks who dismisses the opinions of others. I’m trying to care less about what people think of me, but that seems to be a losing battle. I’m working on that one. One minute I’m tough, then a random comment will have me in tears. Mentally, I feel more confident, smart, and comfortable in my own skin. I’m a life-long learner. So, with each added year, my world broadens as I experience new and exciting things.
Physically my hair is already mostly gray. I think. I honestly don’t know since I have been dyeing it for the last 17 years. The laugh lines and crinkles around my eyes appeared a long time ago, but they don’t bother me.
The last time you looked in the mirror what did you see? I hope you saw a beautiful person who’s learned many things over the years and has made lasting memories. We all want to look our best but as much as we try to escape it, aging is a natural part of life. Aging doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom though; it’s all about perspective. Looking and feeling your best starts with your state of mind and healthy lifestyle choices. If you want to age gracefully, get back your inner spunk, and look and feel the best you can, then check out these 10 secret health and beauty tips.
Get Your Beauty Sleep
It seems like I harp on this all the time, but it is so important. You don’t want to miss out on life by sleeping through it. However, there are many benefits to getting adequate rest. So ensure you’re sleeping well, and getting at least 7- to 8-hours of sleep a night—more when you are ill and your immune system is low.
Stay Hydrated
One easy way to remain youthful is to sip from nature’s elixir, and by that I mean drink plenty of water. Simple H20 will prevent dry skin, wrinkles, and ensure your hair, nails, and skin remain soft and supple, in addition to keeping your organs and digestive system running efficiently. Plus, those who sip water or herbal teas regularly flush their bodies of stressful, age-causing toxins.
Eat Fresh as Much as Possible
A diet rich in fresh, local fruits and vegetables is one that will keep you young and healthy. Studies show that those who consume a veggie suffer less oxidative damage (due to environmental toxins). Plus, both fruits and veggies contain plenty of antioxidants, which reverse the signs of aging.
Wear Sun Protection
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a nice wide-brimmed hat on a hot day will do wonders for your skin by protecting it from harmful UV rays. While exposure to some sunlight is healthy (offering mood-enhancing Vitamin D), simultaneously protecting your skin—particularly the eyes and face—will reduce the chances of wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer.
Quit Smoking
Smoking ages us a lot! But you likely already knew that. Not only does a smoking habit increase your chances of cancer, but it can also cause heart disease, high blood pressure, and breathing difficulties, which all considerably age the body.
Exercise Regularly
You don’t have to join an expensive gym to get a decent amount of exercise. In fact, staying active can be as easy as taking the dog for daily walks, leaving the car parked to do your errands, playing with your kids more often, or unwinding while you move with a regular yoga class. Not only will an active lifestyle increase your energy levels, but it will also keep you looking and feeling young.
Skip the Refined Sugar
A diet high in refined sugars—the sweeteners you consume in processed snacks, soda, and baked goods—will greatly reduce your energy levels and your longevity. Instead, seek sweetness from natural sources, such as fresh fruits, honey, real maple syrup in moderation, and use other spices (i.e., cinnamon) to heighten your taste sensation.
Moisturize Regularly
I make a point of putting moisturizer all over my body immediately following a shower or bath. Regular moisturizing will do wonders for the smoothness and elasticity of your skin. Moisturizers protect against wrinkles and scarring and they keep the skin soft and touchable.
Eat Good Fats
There are good fats and then there are bad fats. It just so happens that the fats you get from avocados, olive oil, nuts, coconut, and fatty fish (i.e., like salmon and tuna) are really good for you and your skin. Beneficial omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids will infuse your skin, hair, and nails with the necessary vitamins and nutrients to keep them glowing.
Focus on the Positive
There is something to be said about those who take a “glass-is-half-full” position in life—they are happy. The more you smile and focus on the positive, the more you avoid stress, banish drama, and remain looking and feeling younger than your actual number age.
Which tips will you apply for aging gracefully? Let us know in the comments below for your name to be put into a drawing! I will pull two names at the end of this week and send a special gift sent to your mailbox. Stay young!
