New Page 1

1. Value Your Daily Diversions -

When you're adding items to your to-do list, don't forget the good stuff. Do you look forward to reading in bed, going out to breakfast, taking long walks, listening to music, or just sitting quietly outside?

Make sure some of your favorite diversions happen every day.

Chores:
Ditch 'em!

Not enough time to indulge? Consider crossing out the pesky items on your list that you keep saying you're going to do, but haven't gotten to in over a year, like alphabetizing your bills or organizing your sock drawer. Or cross out a bigger item that is consuming too much of your time but isn’t enhancing your life.

1. Build Your Strength and Independence –

We all have low-energy days, but if you can resist the urge to skip your daily workout, you'll be rewarded both now and later. Try telling yourself that you need to do only 10 minutes of exercise. Once you're up and moving, it's likely that you'll want to finish your workout. Even if you can't push past the 10-minute mark on bad days, you can feel good about doing at least a little something. Sticking with an exercise plan will help you feel good about yourself, and also strengthen your immune system and enhance your body's production of mood-boosting hormones. Keep a notebook with short summaries of how you feel after really good workouts. Refer to these notes when you need inspiration.

3. Squash Your Stressers -

Don't let stress sap you of joy. Diffuse daily hassles by practicing stress-reduction strategies. Try taking little deep-breathing breaks throughout the day, inhaling through your nose and then exhaling slowly through your mouth. Repeating this action 3 or 4 times allows more oxygen to get into your blood stream, resulting in a greater feeling of calm.

In addition to controlled breathing techniques, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, and massage all have been documented as effective means of reducing tension, stress, depression, and anxiety. Taking a brisk 10-minute walk will do far more to dissipate your stress and lift your spirits than eating the sugary and salty snacks you might crave when you're feeling frantic.

4. Celebrate and Share Your Skills -

Thumb through the local newspaper or phone book and identify a school, club, or organization with whom you'd like to volunteer or participate. Not only will sharing your unique talents and expertise benefit others. Research also shows that volunteering can improve your wellbeing. Feeling engaged and involved in your local community is good for your emotional health. It is also an opportunity to learn some new skills which can keep your mind sharp.

Show Your Stuff

5. Appreciate the People Around You -

Unwind and share a few laughs with your family or friends at least once or twice each month. The openness and trust you share with these important people can help give you the perspective you need to cope with everyday challenges. These regular connections also will have a positive impact on your health, especially when you share a good laugh. Laughing lowers blood pressure and releases endorphins that can ease pain. Also, don't neglect relationships at work. Colleagues and co-workers can provide valuable support and keep your blood pressure under control during stressful situations.

Feeling satisfied and fulfilled with your life is an essential part of your emotional and physical well-being. As you grow to appreciate your time, your independence, your self-assurance, your skills, and your relationships, you will be amazed at just how good you feel, both in body and spirit. RA

Reviewed by RealAge staff: April 2004

How to Get an “A” in Aging…At Any Age

Psalm 26