Monday, January 10, 2022
Don't Spend Too Much Time Taking It Easy
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Happy New Year 2022
The New Year is all about a new you! Now that you are retired or an empty nester, you might be thinking it is time to relax and take it easy. It's okay to sit on the couch for a day or two, but you should find ways to enjoy life and start moving again because your physical and mental health depend on it. Promote a healthy and inspiring life by committing to these three words: exercise, energize, and socialize. We can't spend too much time taking it easy...
Exercise
As you get older, your muscle mass decreases. You might not think this is a big deal, but it is. If you want to maintain your balance, strength, and mobility, exercise is a must. Physical activity on a regular basis helps you sleep better, improves your mood, and aids in the prevention and management of some diseases, blood pressure, anxiety, and stress. Even if you have never had an exercise routine before, starting today can improve your future. Bike, walk, join a gym or take up yoga. Invite your spouse or a group of friends and have fun with it. You will all reap the rewards of a longer, independent lifestyle.
Energize
Keep your mind active. You can always learn something new, including a second language, a musical instrument, or a sport. Study for that certification or college degree you always dreamed about and use it for a second career.
If continuing to work fulfills you and makes you happy, take those years of experience you gained in your career and start your own business. Research the best way to form your company and organize a business plan. Consider setting up as a limited liability company to take advantage of the flexibility, minimal paperwork, and tax benefits an LLC offers. Understand the regulations for Georgia LLC formation before you go too far in the process, and get assistance through a formation service if you don't want to pay an attorney or file the documents yourself.
Socialize
Per a recent study, 60-year-olds who frequently visit friends have a 12% less chance of developing dementia versus those who see friends only once in a while. What does this mean? Have a regularly scheduled breakfast or brunch, plan weekend cookouts, go on trips, meet for dinner, or video chat. Regardless of the distance and everyone's schedules, find a way to stay in communication with your friends and family.
Friendships can change as you get older due to relocation, divorce, or the death of a spouse. It can be difficult finding new friends, but don't let yourself become idle and alone. Research shows that loneliness and isolation put you at a higher risk for depression, heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, Alzheimer's disease, and a weak immune system. Join a club or enlist in a class that pertains to your hobby. These are great ways to satisfy your creative spirit and meet new people with the same interests.
Being a senior doesn't mean hanging up all the fun. Your quality of life can actually be enhanced with all the free time you have. Use these extra hours in your day to get physically fit, take on a new learning experience, and attend special events and gatherings with friends and family. Everyone needs time to relax — just be active while you seek happiness.
Moving365,
Thank you to Jason Lewis for contributing this guest article. He can be reached by email at info@strongwell.org.