Maintaining stable mental health is essential as one ages, given how good mental health has been strongly correlated to good physical health. Mental health and well-being are especially crucial as an individual ages. Here are some ways to help you maintain your mental health and well-being as you grow older.
Fuel the Brain
A good diet is important to achieving mental wellness, given that diet not only impacts your body physically but also affects your mental health. Having a balanced diet that consists of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and greens, lean proteins as well as healthy fats has been proven to promote brain health, and even has the capacity to reduce depression as well as the risk of dementia.
Stay Active
Exercising can also bring about many mental health benefits, asides from its obvious physical benefits. It helps to boost your mood by inducing endorphins as well as other chemicals that provide feel-good reactions. It also helps to reduce the production of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress, proving to be a perfect remedy for managing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. It would be wise to aim for a minimum of 30 to 60 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. You could include various types of physical activity ranging from cardio to resistance training. Group exercise is also another fun and interesting method to achieve 30 minutes or more of physical activity per day, plus it can help motivate you to work out on days that you do not have the motivation to.
Head to the Great Outdoors
A short nature outing can often help to instantaneously boost mood and energy levels by providing the individual with vitamin D. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, and a deficiency of it has been linked to increased rates of depression as well as cognitive impairment. Therefore, exposing yourself to more nature and sunlight can help to prevent mental conditions.
Pick up a New Hobby
Retirement is the ideal time for you to check off your “to-do list” and pursue goals and dreams that you have been putting off. Learn something new, like, sewing, gardening, painting or dancing! As you learn, neuronal connections are forged and strengthened. You will gain a new sense of purpose and comfort and ultimately improve your mental health.
Remain Involved in Your Relationships
Sustaining meaningful connections with your loved ones has been shown to contribute to a number of physical and mental benefits. Being actively involved in healthy relationships with friends and family can help to boost serotonin and uplift your mood in general. Do try to find time to participate in recreational activities like cycling, hiking, hiking, or simply going out for a movie with your loved ones to keep your relationships well-connected.
Head Over to Discovery Commons At Bradenton
Discovery Commons At Bradenton is proud to offer exclusive senior living programs that will meet your loved one’s every need and ensure that they are healthy, both physically and mentally. In our Dimensions Health & Wellness program that emphasizes healthy living, we offer a variety of activities, ranging from physical wellness programs, educational lectures, and specialized therapies to help your loved ones to live their golden years to the fullest. Contact us now to find out more.
