How to Reverse the Aging Process
----------
Getting old is part of the natural course of living. More balanced cultures equate a long life with good fortune. One almost gets the impression that life ends at forty, at least judging by the popular media, and often women feel the pressure to keep looking young. There is a time for everything and we must learn to enjoy all seasons of life.
It's fine to want to look our best, and we should do so. Looking older than our years may be related to genetics, but it is in more cases caused by unhealthy habits and decisions. There is no genetic predisposition for donuts, pizza, or not getting enough rest. Staying informed and making decisions that get you on the best possible track early is key to a life of health!
Making some small changes can make the difference in looking and feeling old beyond your years. Take heed of these easy ways to prevent premature aging — ones under your control.
Keep up to date with regard to the known side-effects of prescribed medications you are taking. There is no way that the interactions caused by them can all be predicted. Pharmacists and other practitioners can assist you, and don't neglect online forums where you'll find people are discussing them.
If you smoke, quit. Smoking is one of the major causes of premature aging in women — to list just one consequence. Smoking will infest your system with poisons that build up over time, and it will show in your skin.
Rest is essential so that your body can rebuild itself. We can expend only so much energy, and can't use it all up without paying steep price. Most experts recommend six to eight hours a night, and it’s widely suggested that the more sleep you get earlier than midnight, the more effective your sleep will be.
Trim those portions. Most Americans way over eat. Digesting food is hard on the body. It uses a lot of energy. The more extra weight we carry , the more we wear down our bodies. Eat intelligently for your metabolism and needs — in moderation. It has been proven that occasional fasting is good for your system.
Let water be your beverage of choice. If you already know you don’t drink sufficient pure water, make sure to start. Fluids move nutrients into the system and take toxins out. Good hydration is good for your looks.
Avoid those tanning beds at all costs. The skin is your largest organ - treat it with care. It's normal to have a light complexion in the winter months. Get tanned outdoors, and go easy on it.
Exercise! If you are fit and trim, you'll look years younger. So get active. Start a regular walking routine, or start toning, or get a low impact aerobics DVD and use it regularly and you’ll delay the aging process. If you play golf, walk, don't take a golfcart. There are several programs created for those with physical limitations. Check with your local health care facilities. You will look better and the improvement in the way you feel will be even better.
We understand there’s no miraculous Fountain of Youth, and each one of us is going to pass out of this world one day, but let's don't hasten the process or wind up looking and feeling beyond our years. Wise actions can extend our youthful days.
----------
Debra Thompson is the head of the Natural Health Co-op, an online health co-op.
Debra runs a regular podcast titled A Healthy New Year.
