As you get older, you may notice a decrease in your energy. When you reach your 50’s or 60’s, it can be quite common to notice yourself slowing down, getting a few aches, not being as quick to get up as you used too.
While this is completely normal, you don’t have to always feel like this. You mind is active, and you don’t feel your age so what can you do to help keep your body healthy? You don’t bounce back as quickly as you once did, now you need to give more attention to your lifestyle. Here are a few things to look at, to help give you that boost of energy you need and keep those levels up.
What are You Eating?
Healthy meal choices are important at any time in your life, even more so as you get older. When you’re feeling run down, take a look at what you’ve been putting into your body. Food can have a big impact on how tired we feel. It is really important to have good food even if you are now cooking only for one.
Maintain a balanced plate of food with:
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Lean meats (or alternatives protein like eggs, tofu, beans or plant based food if you prefer)
• Nuts and seeds
• Grains
Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water – roughly 2 / 3 Litres of water a day is recommended for most women.
Go to Bed and Get Quality Sleep
Are you getting enough sleep? Average sleep time is between 7 and 8 hours per night. It is important that you allow enough time in your schedule for quality sleep. Setting a regular bedtime routine can help. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day, and eventually your body will adjust.
If you’re still struggling to fall asleep – try a cup of herbal tea. Flavours like chamomile or lavender can help you relax. Reduce your caffeine later in the day and screen time before bed. Mediation is a great way to quiet your mind. Listen to relaxing music or self guided mediations
Down Time
Having mental stimulation can keep your brain sharp and give you a lift in energy. Remember it is important to incorporate some down time to. Activities like painting, colouring, drawing are great, and allow your mind an intellectual workout while not thinking about work or other stress creating situations.
Keep Active
When you are active, it helps you to stay healthy – both physically and mentally. Yes you do have time. Seriously if you can’t find 30 minutes a day then you need to reschedule one of your other activities or stop work earlier.
Use some of the easy add ins like:
- Park your car further away
- Take the stairs
- Walk at lunchtime
- Book into a regular class dancing, aerobics, swimming
- Join a walking, running group
- Get an accountability buddy, do exercise with a friend
- Get a dog
It is amazing how much energy you can get back in your day from doing some exercise even when you don’t feel like it. If you are having trouble fitting it in start by planning exercise as early as possible in your day before other things take over your day.
Me Time
Remember to prioritise yourself.
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” ~Jim Rohn