Retirement can mean exchanging a busier working lifestyle for one which includes leisure and approaching life at a slower pace. While there is a lot to be said for taking the time to slow down and appreciate your new surroundings, your retirement does not have to be sedentary. In fact, one way to help ensure you have the good health to enjoy your retirement years is to be active and attendant your well-being. Fortunately, there are many ways to remain healthy during your retirement years.
Exercise Your Mind
Leaving the working world can mean no longer engaging in the intellectual stimulation which a job requires. However, this does not mean that you should allow your mind to remain unchallenged. In fact, choosing to engage in thought-provoking activities can help prevent brain cell loss and contribute to overall cerebral health. Finding an activity which you enjoy such as reading, completing puzzles, or taking a class in the community can be informative while supporting healthy brain function.
Remain Socially Active
When you retire, you will probably not maintain as much contact with the social networks you built while working. For some, their working relationships may have been their primary social contact. However, spending too much time alone can lead to cognitive decline, depression, and have other health consequences. Therefore, once in retirement, it is essential to make a concerted effort to connect with friends and loved ones and establish new relationships. Taking action to engage in social activities such as going to lunch, attending an event, or playing games with others can help you maintain community connections and decrease your chances of experiencing some of the adverse health conditions which can come with social isolation.
Be Physically Active and Eat Well
While retirement may mean being restful, this is not the time to stop being active. Engaging in physical fitness can help prevent injuries and illness as well as cause the release of mood-improving chemicals in the brain. Find an activity which you enjoy and can safely perform such as walking, dancing, or gardening and make it a regular part of your routine.
Another critical component of healthy living at any age is eating well. As we get older, it becomes increasingly vital that we safeguard our physical health by making smart choices about the foods we eat. Choosing nourishing whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins over sugary and processed foods is a significant part of maintaining a healthy body. By giving your body nutritious meals, you are enabling it to resist illness and provide you with the energy you need.
Manage Stress
While many people associate stress with their jobs, stopping work does not mean that stressors will not be present in your life. Chronic stress has been linked to lower immune function which makes the body more susceptible to disease. Find ways in which you can relax and control your stress level. For some, this could mean taking a yoga class and engaging in mindfulness meditation while for others, a daily walk or spending time painting a picture may be ideal. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you are taking the time you need to release tension.
Health living during retirement is an essential part of being able to enjoy your post-employment years. We have experience helping people plan for all aspects of their retirement. Please contact us by phone or online if we can help.