Baby Boomers Health

The good news and bad news

After age 50, lifestyle has more impact than genes.

What does that mean to you? It's time to embrace a healthy lifestyle. No more coasting or procrastinating - it's easier than you think.

My husband, Bill, and I had our wake-up call several years ago. Bill was diagnosed with prostate cancer during a routine medical exam. Fortunately, it was found at an early stage. At the time, we believed we had a fairly healthy lifestyle but the diagnosis caused us to take a closer look.

What We Learned

One of the key things we learned was to take a holistic approach to health. That means nurturing your physical, emotional and spiritual well-being - as each impacts the other.

If it sounds like hard work, don't be discouraged. Small changes can make a big difference. To assist you, I've given you tips and ideas that can become part of your daily routine.

But first, let me give you an overview of the holistic approach.

Physical well-being includes nutrition and exercise. Physical exercise doesn't have to be a chore. The key is to choose an activity that you enjoy and will give you the benefit of exercise.

After age 50, fitness should include both aerobic exercise and strength training. I recently learned that it is through aerobic exercise that the body heals and repairs itself. That fact was an incentive for me to commit to daily exercise. Complete the fitness review to find your own motivation.

Nutrition

If you are like me, you probably know what you should be eating but don't always do so. Too often food choices are made for reasons that have nothing to do with good nutrition. Reasons such as eating for pleasure, for comfort, to feel better, and to reward yourself.

So how do you raise your awareness of the choices you are making? A structure I've found helpful is using the 80/20 rule.

80% of the time choose nutritious food, leaving 20% for the occasional dessert or treat. (My weakness is potato chips and chocolate - although not necessarily at the same time!)

Shifting to a healthier lifestyle gets easier - especially as you feel better, have more energy, and see the results in the mirror!

What About Your Emotional Side?

You know your emotional well-being is out of balance when you feel stressed and overwhelmed. The demands of others may leave little time for you, but it's essential to make the time.

Are you thinking "I'm supposed to fit in exercise, eat well and find time for me. Get real!" Yet consider the risk if you don't. Don't wait for a health crisis.

The other response I often hear is "taking time for me feels selfish". Try the analogy of seeing yourself as a cup. You need to fill your cup so you can share your cup with others. Stop running on empty. Take time for you and fill your cup.

Check out the simple practices that can enhance your well-being and help you handle life's daily stresses.

Your Spiritual Side

The word "spiritual" means different things to different people. I invite you to explore what it means to you.

From my perspective, it is connecting with your inner-self. Spending time in solitude and listening for the quiet inner-voice that guides and inspires you.

One spiritual practice is a daily ritual of quiet reflection or prayer, in the early morning or late evening. There are other simple practices that will nurture both your spiritual and emotional well-being. I've prepared a list of suggestions for you.

Next Step

It's never too late to embrace a healthy lifestyle. Start by completing the Health Review. Discover how to implement small changes that can make a big difference.

A health lifestyle is one part of the vision for your life. For on-going support, subscribe to the monthly newsletter "Active and Alive!". As a bonus you will receive my free e-course "Simple Self-Care Strategies".