2025 promises to be full of adventures and challenges. Are you ready to meet them? Here are five simple practices that can strengthen your body, mind and soul for everything you want to do in 2025.
JUST BREATHE
Deep breathing for a few minutes every day can help reduce anxiety, improve lung function, lower blood pressure, boost energy, and enhance mental clarity. And it’s as easy as breathing! Try the 4-7-8 method: start by sitting comfortably, inhaling slowly through your nose for four seconds, holding it for seven seconds, and then exhaling through pursed lips for eight seconds. Start and finish your day by taking time for this breathing exercise.
WALK IT OUT
Motion is lotion for your joints and salve for your soul. If you’re struggling to find the motivation to move, get a step counter for your pocket, phone, or wrist. Challenge yourself to increase your step count daily, then challenge your friends and neighbours to match you—make sure there’s a prize for the winner.
STRETCH OUT
Stretching feels good and yields excellent results! Spending a bit of time each day loosening up your muscles will improve your balance and reduce the risk of falling. YouTube offers a variety of free tutorials for seniors who want to limber up. If you’d like a live instructor to help, visit your local seniors centre or community centre to find out what programs they offer.
SLEEP WELL
Seniors sometimes struggle to get a good night’s sleep, but the benefits are significant. It’s worth experimenting with some minor changes to see if they will improve the quantity and quality of your sleep. Consider turning down the thermostat in your bedroom and avoiding daytime naps. Invest in a white noise machine or blackout curtains. Talk to your doctor about whether using Melatonin or CBD oil would be helpful for relaxation and better sleep. Explore other ideas here.
VOLUNTEER
Giving back is the gift that rewards the giver! Your social life, mental health and sense of well-being will improve when you take steps to make time to invest in something outside yourself. Don’t know where to start? Drop in at your local seniors centre, non-profit thrift store, pet shelter, hospital or community theatre for tips on how to get involved.
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