GrownUps New Zealand

How To Feel Better, Live Longer, Feel Younger

5833 1

The Baby Boomer Generation was born 1946 to 1964. As we get older, our children leave home, our parents or a spouse pass on, and we age numerically. But, that does not have to mean we are going to age quietly. No way! We want to have fun, dance and remember the good times. 

Once we are 40-something plus that special magical thing happens. We leave our inhibitions, former clicks and attitudes back in high school – now we just want to have fun.

Don't get me wrong, we want to have fun but our body may say something else, like you're not 25 anymore. But, that is okay. We are not afraid of aging, but we are realistic. We know there are certain things we need to do have fruitful lives.

Like what?

First and foremost, everything we do to our bodies has some kind of impact, whether it is positive or negative. But what we eat can sometimes help us to improve our quality of life, and make it possible to add several years to our lives. Good nutrition is significant, because it can release antioxidants for heart health, or help us to feel more energized so we engage in more activity throughout the day. 

As long as we are practicing good nutrition, the next step would be to exercise. Whether you go to the gym every day of the week, or simply walk a mile a couple of days a week, physical activity has proven its benefits, especially to people over the age of forty. 

Getting the body moving increases blood flow for heart health, releases endorphins for mental health, and allows the body to sweat, releasing toxins that are extremely bad for the skin and other organs.

Another element that the Baby Boomers should consider is the impact of cigarettes and alcohol on personal health. This generation grew up in an era where nothing much was thought about smoking several cigarettes a day, and imbibing alcohol was a regular occurrence in many homes. It seems like such obvious advice, but giving up smoking, and limiting the amount of alcohol you consume can really add years to your life. But really, the way you feel will improve one hundred percent.

The last element of a healthy lifestyle for Baby Boomers would be a good night's sleep. So often, working adults feel that they can get through the day on only a few hours, and be fine. Yet, what they do not realize is that, even though they may be able to function at the office that does not mean that this behaviour is healthy. 

Looking and feeling great involves taking care of your body, and taking the time to relax and fall asleep in a timely fashion often falls to the wayside. But many people of this generation are beginning to realize the need for sleep, and taking steps to ensure they fall asleep quickly at a decent hour, to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. 

By combining all of these positive behaviours, the Baby Boomer generation will demonstrate that they will far outlive the average age of their parents and grandparents.

By 

Sherry Harris