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To know how to grow old is the masterwork of wisdom, and one of the most difficult chapters in the great art of living.

Henri Frederic Amiel

But the godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon.

Psalm 92:12 (NLT)

When they are old, they will still produce fruit; they will be healthy and fresh.

Psalm 92:14 (NCV)

Hitting the half century mark can be a scary proposition in life for most people, but it doesn’t have to be for you. As someone who just turned 25 earlier this year, I look up to people who are able to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle past the age of 50. Although our bodies do slow down with age, we can still enjoy a high quality of life by prioritizing our spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional health. Here are some tips that will help you lead a healthy and happy lifestyle.

1. Short, but Sweet Workouts

Finding something you can do at least 3-4 days a week for 30 minutes each time will help your physical health tremendously. With such a busy life, it’s important to work these exercise times into your current schedule and lifestyle. There’s nothing wrong with short workouts, as long as they’re consistent. Whether it’s a lunch break run, morning push-ups, or evening bike ride, these workouts will help keep your physical, mental, and emotional health sharp.

2. Diversify Your Diet

Eat many different types and colors of fruits and vegetables. And make sure that at least half of your grains are whole grains. According to the National Institute on Aging, you should also drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Making these changes will be sure improve your energy level and give you confidence that you’re treating your body well.

3. Spiritual R&R

As life goes on, you take on more and more responsibilities. With all the added anxiety and stress, it’s vital that you give yourself time to let down with God. Praying will relax you and clear your mind. You can even do something you enjoy while you pray. Whether it’s a nice prayer walk or shooting hoops as you pray, getting creative with prayer will combine and increase your spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional well-being all at the same time.

4. The Dr. Is Your Friend

While doctors appointments aren’t the funnest things in the world, they are an important part of staying healthy as you age. Regular check-ups and screenings for specific body levels such as cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cancer will protect you from being caught off guard by many diseases that can come with age. And don’t forget to talk with your physician about any vaccines you may need.

5. Friendship Time

Life can get so packed with work, kids, and responsibilities that personal friendships go out the window. This doesn’t have to happen to you. Connecting with friends on your journey to better health will create bonds that lead to a higher likelihood of sustained physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

6. Boost Your Brainpower

Keeping a sharp mind is one of the biggest components to aging well. Activities such as reading books (the bible is a great place to start), playing thinking games (chess or Scrabble work well), and doing word puzzles (such as crosswords or Sudoku’s) strengthen your mind and improve your memory. Engaging in any of these activities with other people will add even more value to these brain exercises.

7. Soak Up the Sun

Spending 15-20 minutes a day in the sun can help you generate all the vitamin D you need, though you should ask your doctor if you need a supplement. Getting your share of the sun first thing in the morning can boost your serotonin level as well, which will brighten your mood.

Don’t worry if you aren’t able to incorporate all of these lifestyle changes at the same time. Do your best to work them into your schedule and feel confident that you’re on the road to a happier and healthier life!

Written by

Bay Area Christian Church

This was created by a member of the Bay Area Christian Church team.