by Teresa Feil

Created on: May 05, 2008

ANTI-AGING
Age is just a number; it isn't the end of living. Sometimes when I look at myself in the mirror, I have to wonder where time has gone. What happened to the rich color of my hair and where did those extra wrinkles come from anyway. Then I must remember that I am only as old as I feel. Age is a state of mind but for many that can be a hard concept to master.

Aging gracefully will require some extra effort on your part. By staying active, you can ward off many illnesses. Walking is a good form of exercise for anyone. It requires only good shoes and the effort of going. It also keeps our moods in check by producing the endorphins that elevate our moods. The sun and fresh air are great for increasing your immunity. It also is important to have regular check ups with your Doctor. After working many years in the medical field, I have seen that it is possible to have diseases yet live an active, productive life.

There are as many lotions; potions, pills and promises for staying young as there are stars in the sky. But beauty is not necessarily found on the outside of us. Our emotional health and spiritual health will create an inner beauty that surpasses any facial lift. It is necessary to cultivate relationships with others that have the same interests. If you have friends or family that are negative and tend to put a damper on everyone's spirits, it may be time to distance yourself from them. Positive thoughts and laughter will erase many wrinkles.

Hobbies and passions are a great way to keep us going. If you have something that truly gets under your skin, you need to consider this a passion that was placed in you heart. Maybe you have wanted to learn a new skill, now is time to go for it. At 54 years of age, I am learning to write. Go back to school or volunteer for any group that you please. The secret is to stay active, stay involved. Don't retreat to the recliner and expect to stay healthy or happy. Join a gym; this is a time in our lives that strength training is necessary for our bodies.

Sharing your life with someone is a great way to slow down aging. If you have no family available, there are many places to start looking for a family. Nursing homes are over loaded with lonely elderly that need a friend. Big brothers and big sisters can connect you with a child that is begging for someone's time. Give your time and heart to someone else. When we are busy doing for others we don't dwell on ourselves.

To put it all together, just follow a few simply steps.

1.Remember that age is only a number.
2.Stay active by using your mind and your body.
3.Rekindle relationships.
4.Pursue your dreams.
5.Love and laugh a lot!
6.Take care of your emotional and spiritual health.
7.Above all else, love yourself, just the way you are.

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