Everyone ages differently depending on our lifestyle, genetic makeup, careers, race, and environment. Some ethnic groups age faster than others. Men and women age differently too. So what is "normal" for some people, country or group of people, may not be "normal" for others. Let's talk about the aging process for Middle Aged Americans.
When you are in between the ages of 35-65 some people may notice a slow physical decline. You notice you can't play sports like you did when you were in your 20's. You start to see, and feel the effects of the lifestyle choices you made when you were a teenager and young adult. Yikes! You begin to have a "Mid-Life Crisis". For some life is great! Your career is moving alone as planned. Your family is healthy, and happy. The perfect family in your eyes. For others, you're wondering what to do with your life. Your job/career sucks, and your stress is at an all time high.
About this time in Life having good nutrition and regular exercise are both essential for all adults, no matter how old you are, or think you are. As your body start to decline, you start to notice a decline in your mental powers as well. So you'll start a new exercise program and eat foods lower in calories to care for your physical needs and concerns. But wait! What about your mind ? What will you do to keep your mind healthy?
Many health enthusiasts will do a lot of things to keep their bodies looking good and feeling good, but they forget to do the same for their minds. People will work on improving their "Spiritual" walk, but forget to work on improving their cognitive functions. As we get older, we start to make poor decisions every now and then. This is "normal". We may forget to pay a bill once in a while. Forget the time, date or day, but will remember later. Some of us may forget words or how to spell certain words. And how many of you have forgotten where you placed your glasses, sunglasses, keys, wallet, comb, or even the remote. All of these are signs of a normal aging process, so you don't need to panic. These are not signs of any form of dementia.
What you should do to decrease dementia is to exercise your mind and feed your brain. Exercise your mind every day by being social. Do cross word puzzles, word problem games, and play Wheel of Fortune and or Jeopardy. Feed your mind with nutritious foods and snacks on a regular basis. Take vitamins and foods high in vitamins B & E. Watch your blood pressure, and do things to keep you feeling young and vibrant.
I encourage any one to add a comment and link to their blog or website to further educate people on having a healthy lifestyle.
Cool post Sharron. I try to learn something new every few months to keep my mind sharp. Right now I am cooking vegan meals and learning a lot about different proteins. I also love to play sudoku puzzles and scrabble.
ReplyDeleteGreat article. Your body starts to lose muscle mass after the age of 30 so that's one reason more exercise is needed. Exercise also helps keep your mind fed. Haven't you noticed that you think more clearly after going on a walk. The old saying "I'm going to take a walk to clear my mind" is accurate.
ReplyDeleteI have a few websites. One is just for health tips and has a page with mind exercises on it. It has a link to an amazing site with really fun mental games. You can access it from my website www.getrealfit.org or go straight to it www.realwomensfitnesstips.com
Great Article. I've been going through a "Life Style Change" for a year and a half, and have learned much about my body, including what it really needs and does not need. I'm 58 pounds closer to my goal.
ReplyDeleteNot only internally, emotionally but on the outside. I've got some great TIPS for overall body skin care on my blog: http://CathyJELadyNews.blogspot.com
Another great site for those interested in safe weight loss, exercising tips, tracking, goal setting and so forth might want to try http://www.sparkpeople.com
Leah, thanks for leaving a comment. I would like to know more about how certain diets can boost brain power.
ReplyDeleteLynn, thank you for the information. It is true about clearing the mind and walking. I try to walk 3 times a week.
ReplyDeleteThank you Cathy. I'll check those sites out.
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