Getting older is an unavoidable part of life. When you’re young, it often feels like you’ll live forever. But there comes a point, usually in your thirties or forties, when you realise how much time has passed you by.

Aging is understandably a worry for many people. Your body is noticeably changing, in the way you look, think, and move. You realize you are on an inevitable path towards old age, and there is nothing you can do to avoid this. But this needn’t be a cause for commiseration. Getting older is a beautiful process, and there is no reason it should stop you from living your life. Plenty of elderly folk in their nineties and beyond live happy and wholesome existences. You need to learn to embrace the aging process and carry on with your life.

But also you can’t stop yourself from aging, you can slow the process down. There are several measures you can take to look, move, and think like a much younger person. The following article outlines ten great ways you can fight the effects of aging and wind back the clock.

Have a skin care routine

The best time to start a skincare routine is ten years ago. The second best time is right now. Looking after your complexion is the number one thing you can do to fight the effects of aging. Smooth, soft skin makes you look years younger but it takes a lot of work to keep it in good condition. Moisuristising twice daily is the best place to start. This hydrates and nourishes your skin, as well as creating a protective barrier to protect against moisture loss and external irritants. A sensitive face wash is also important, as is an exfoliating product such as Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant. It only takes a few minutes each day to keep up a solid skin care regime but the effects on your youthful appearance will be enormous.

Drink plenty of water

Doctors recommend drinking a minimum of two litres of water a day, but ideally a lot more. Good hydration has a benefit to almost all aspects of your health from your digestive system to your complexion. The body needs water to survive, and if you are not drinking enough you can get dehydrated. This ages the skin as well as making you more susceptible to various health concerns.

Minimise bad habits

Eating sweet treats and drinking alcohol are fine if done in moderation. But overdo it, and they can have a serious impact on your health and appearance. Keep the temptations to a minimum and absolutely avoid substances like tobacco and addictive drugs.

Stay out of the sun

Overexposure to sunlight is one of the worst things for your skin. The ultraviolet rays from the sun damage your skin, causing sunburn, dryness, and increase risk of cancer. If you live in a warm climate, make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen each day, even if it is not too hot. Try to spend more time in the shade and wear hats and shades to protect your skin and eyes.

Reduce your stress levels

High levels of stress and anxiety can speed up the aging process, damaging your mental and physical health. If you have a high-pressured job or pressing family issues, do your best to manage your stress. If you can’t get rid of the source of your anxieties, find some coping mechanisms to help you calm down. Meditation is a great way to insert some tranquility into your life, as is spending time in nature and finding time for self care.

Exercise regularly

30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each day is all that is needed for a healthy lifestyle. You don’t need to run marathons or hit the gym at the crack of dawn to stay fit and active. Find a sport or activity that you love, whether it’s running, cycling, or playing soccer with your friends. If you enjoy it, it will not only make you stronger and fitter as you get older, but it will make you happier too.

Eat a balanced diet

The food you eat plays a huge part in your body’s appearance and function. Eating a balanced diet full of plenty of carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, fruit, and vegetables, will keep you ticking over and improve your health. Try to limit your sugar intake and spend more time cooking homemade meals with fresh ingredients. When you give your body the nutrients it needs, it will pay you back by making you look and feel better.

Look after your brain

Your cognitive function is one of the things that can decline as you get older. When you hit middle age, it’s more important than ever to keep your mind active and test yourself. Mentally-challenging activities like crosswords, Su Dokus and jigsaw puzzles are all great ways to train your brain and boost your cognition. Read plenty of books and try learning new skills like playing an instrument or speaking French. The brain is like any muscle of the body - if you make it work, it becomes stronger.

Boost your dopamine

Dopamine is a hormone that is an integral part of your brain’s reward system, making you good when you experience an enjoyable activity. It is the reason we get a sensation of pleasure when we take part in our favourite pastimes. It is good for your mental and physical health, and an indicator of a rewarding life. Spend time doing the things you love and boosting your happiness levels. Socialise with loved ones, go traveling, and make pleasant memories.

Embrace getting older

Finally, there’s no point trying to fight the aging process. Although it may be initially difficult to see yourself changing when you look in the mirror, you will soon get used to it. Hopefully, you will even learn to embrace getting older and the new experiences it brings. You are only as old as you feel inside, so keep living a good life and remember that age is just a number.

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