Fall is here, and for some folks it is their favorite time of the year. I do love the fall foliage and the crisp but still warmish days. The beach is still great and biking the boardwalk is such fun.
My lovely daughter, Jeannie, turned 19 this week and I am on my way to 72 in two weeks. In the past, I have been asked how I stay looking so young (always glad to hear); So I am going to give some fitness tips I have learned over the years. First, fitness is a state of mind. We cannot help the deal we were given concerning DNA and hereditary factors, but we can do our best. Do not smoke, it decreases your life expectancy, contributes to and can cause serious diseases and demonstratively ages your skin. Drink moderately (if you do) as alcohol dries out your skin and is detrimental to your liver and other organs. Eat healthy foods and balance your nutrition (more fruits & veggies). Drink water. Make the effort to exercise, move and be active (a tried and true investment in your health). Do not sit too much. Try to keep your weight within a healthy range. Get plenty of sleep (I get at least 8 to 9 hours per night and when possible a power nap in the late afternoon). Attend an age appropriate fitness class. Get out in the fresh air. Commit to walk in the park, on the beach, or even around the neighborhood regularly. Bike in pollution-free environments (as is possible). Get sunshine whenever you can (use sunscreen on your face). Getting sun is very important to absorb essential vitamins that the sun creates. Take care of your skin. Wash your face before bed using a mild cleanser, not soap. Do not use hot water on your face or body (it washes away the natural oils). Do not shower or bathe too often. Spot clean between showers; and if you just worked out, just rinse off and do not use soap. I was the personal trainer to Georgette Klinger, one of the queens of skin care. She said to use a mild makeup remover (if you use makeup) with lukewarm water on your face and finish with cool water and then a moisturizer before bed. In the morning do not use a cleanser, just rinse your face with lukewarm water and then cool water and apply moisturizer. Always finish with a cool (or if you can take it, cold) water rinse for hair and body (closes the pores).
Attend intellectual, entertaining activities (Museums, concerts, plays, lectures, movies, etc..).
The most important factor in keeping your well earned overall fitness is attitude! Be grateful for the blessings you do have. “Love the one you’re with.” Socialize. Volunteer. Get behind a cause. Treat others with respect and try to have empathy for their life situations; Not just family, friends, neighbors or countrymen, but fellow humans who reside on this beautiful gift of a planet. Folks who struggle to meet their fate with dignity (or even without), as they are all part of the evolvement of all of us. Help others “rise up” in as many ways as possible, you will be helping all of humanity and increasing your own positive “karma”.
Better and Better, Every Day in Every Way, Patricia
