the happy cactus

Throughout my deep dive journey on how to optimise my next chapter in life as a marvellous middle-aged mofo, I have come across much of the same information regurgitating the same themes. Here is what I have found…it all leads to the maintenance of our body, in particular, movement, sleep and gut-health. They are separate entities yet tightly knit together, each independent but reliant on each other. They ebb and flow with how healthy each appears to be. You can’t have good mental health if your diet is crap and if you aren’t exercising such as walking daily. This is what I have found so far to maximising your health and well-being. Remember, these are just guidelines and I urge you to seek medical advice if you would like to get more information. I am not a doctor, dietician, or health expert – this is just what I have found works for me; your average plain Jane!

*Maintain a Balanced Diet: Consume a nutrient-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Aim for proper portion sizes and stay hydrated. Limit the intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, saturated fats, and less red meat.

*Stay Physically Active: Engage in regular exercise to promote cardiovascular health, maintain muscle strength, and improve flexibility and balance. Include a mix of aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable exercise routine for your fitness level and any specific health considerations. It is imperative the older we get them more essential it is for us to have strength and mobility.

*Prioritize Mental & Emotional Well-being: Take care of your mental and emotional health by engaging  in activities that reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance cognitive function. Practice mindfulness, meditation, Pilates/yoga, or engage in hobbies and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Seek social connections and maintain a support network.

*Get Sufficient Sleep: Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and practice good sleep hygiene. Avoid excessive use of electronic devices before bedtime and limit caffeine intake, particularly in the evening.

*Continue Social Connections: Stay socially active and maintain relationships with family, friends, and community. Engage in activities that promote social interaction and meaningful connections. Join clubs, organizations, or volunteer in your community to foster a sense of purpose and belonging. Be careful to extend connections beyond media platforms – it is essential for humans to be face to face for mental wellness.

*Stay Mentally Active: Keep your mind sharp and engaged by participating in activities that challenge your cognitive abilities. Read books, solve puzzles, engage in brain-training exercises, learn new skills, or take up hobbies that stimulate your mind.

*Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your overall health and address any specific concerns. Stay up-to-date on screenings, vaccinations, and preventive care measures recommended for your age group.

*Manage Chronic Conditions: If you have any chronic health conditions, work closely with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively. Follow prescribed treatment plans, take medications as directed, and make necessary lifestyle modifications to optimize your health.

*Practice Sun Safety: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, seeking shade during peak sun hours, and wearing protective clothing. Regularly check your skin for any unusual changes and consult a dermatologist if necessary.

*Avoid Harmful Habits: Minimize or eliminate harmful habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use. These habits can have detrimental effects on your health and well-being. The old saying you are what you eat is the same for what harmful things we put in our bodies.

Everyone is unique and has a different journey and what works for me might not necessarily work for you. Ageing is a natural process and we can help immensely by general maintenance every day. I will note that it is super important to listen to your body, adapt your lifestyle to your specific needs, and seek professional guidance when necessary – this is key!!

Ageing healthy is ageing happy.