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Be Your Best: Body, Mind and Spirit

April, 2007

We may all be growing older, but we are no longer just "actively aging." Now, thanks to new research and modern advances, we are "aging actively."

Aging actively is a choice. By making certain life style choices, we can indeed be our very best in body, mind and spirit.

Body - Studies prove that, if we eat right and exercise, we can remain active and vibrant as we age.

• Diet. A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as well as lean meats, can help lower your cholesterol level and decrease your chances of developing heart disease and diabetes, while giving you more energy.
• Exercise. For older adults who want to stay healthy and independent, studies recom-mend four types of exercise: strength to build muscles and increase metabolism; balance to build leg muscles and help prevent falls; stretching to increase range of movement and cardio to increase your endurance. Check with your doctor before you begin any exercise program.
• Smart Choices. Don't smoke, drink excessive alcohol or use illegal drugs.

Mind - We are always learning and recent research shows that it's good for us to do so. Studies have proven that an active and sharp mind can help maintain our well-being. Keeping your brain active and engaged through formal, or just plain fun, activities increases its vitality and builds reserves of brain cells and connections.

• Have Fun. Work on your favorite hobby or start a new one. Read, write, play games, do puzzles - whatever you enjoy.
• Go to School. State supported colleges and universities allow Ohioans age 60 and older to attend classes at no cost. Lifelong Learning Institutes meet the educational interests of older adult members.
• Other Learning Opportunities. Senior centers, state parks, local park and recreation programs, local high schools and career centers offer various classes.

Spirit - We are all so much more than just a body and a brain. We need to develop and nurture that unique spark that makes us individuals in order to be our personal best. Research confirms the health benefits of a positive state of mind, connection to others and spirituality.

• Volunteer. Each year, older Ohioans give more than 350,000 hours of their time to help people of all ages. Ohio is rich in volunteer opportunities to work with other older Ohioans, children, families or nature.
• Meditation. When meditating, your heart rate and breathing slow down, your blood pressure normalizes and you use oxygen more efficiently. Your mind also clears and your creativity increases. People who meditate regularly find it easier to give up life-damaging habits like smoking, drinking and drugs.
• Community Involvement. Studies prove that people who are involved in community and social organizations benefit from these types of support systems and tend to be healthier, live longer, become less depressed and handle stress better.

May is Older Americans Month and Ohio's theme is "Be Your Best: Body, Mind and Spirit." You can find other activities to help you be your personal best on ODA's website at: www.goldenbuckeye.com/OAM

Barbara E. Riley