We’ve heard it all before. “Do This, Don’t Do That” or “Stop That. It’s Bad for Your Health.” Well, who said?! If everything is so bad for us, then what exactly should we be doing? Here are a few everyday things that can actually improve your health. So read on to see what bad habits or surprising activities that you actually get to keep doing.
Activities
1. Surf the web
Are you the type of person who sits down after dinner and pulls out their phone or tablet and starts browsing Facebook or searching for the newest celebrity gossip? Well then here is some good news. Researchers in the US have found surfing the web helps boost brain health in people who are middle-aged or older and could even prevent some of the effects that aging has on the brain. A study found that browsing the internet stimulated the areas of the brain that control language and memory as well as helping to improve decision-making and complex reasoning. So keep browsing!
2. Become Picture Perfect
Like to spend your time behind the camera instead of in front of it? If you spend your days and nights capturing the moment, you may actually be helping yourself and others be happier and healthier. Research suggests that recalling good memories and reminiscing about pleasing events can actually boost happiness levels and health. Other studies suggest that recalling good memories is actually more difficult than recalling bad ones. So use your photography skills, put together some photo albums and share on social media to help you and all your family have an instant heath boost.
3. Do the Dirty Work
Dish duty? Really? A recent study revealed that older adults who keep their homes tidy and clean feel better physically and emotionally once the everyday chores have been completed. Sweeping, vacuuming, clearing the table and, yes, washing dishes not only keep you happier, but can also even burn some calories. So, keeping your home clean and tidy could help you stay fit and healthy and keep off those extra pounds. The average person walks more than 22 miles and burns off 50,000 calories a year while cleaning their home, making housework a great alternative to the gym.
4. Stress Out
Believe it or not, stress is not always a bad thing. In fact, moderate stress levels can improve performance, a phenomenon you may have experienced you may have experienced while working under a tight deadline or in a high pressure environment. While it is true that too much long-term stress can lead to more serious health problems, research indicates that temporary stress can motivate us, make us feel more alert and mentally sharper and actually strengthen our immune system.
5. Sing at the Top of your Lungs
Do you sing in the shower or wail a tune in your car? Singing actually has physical, psychological and social benefits. Singing can be an excellent form of exercise for the elderly, disabled or injured by targeting muscles for respiration, coordination and improving posture. Singing can give your lungs a work out and help to pull in greater amounts of oxygen, which can increase your aerobic activity and stamina. It has also been shown to improve the immune system, lower stress levels and improve mental alertness.
6. Play Fetch with Fido
Pets have been shown to reduce blood pressure and stress levels in humans and can actually help lower cholesterol, fight depression and help protect against heart conditions. Pets provide a comfort system and actually produce a chemical chain reaction in the brain that helps lower levels of the stress-inducing hormone called cortisol and increases the production of the feel-good hormone called serotonin. Pets have been shown to have a positive effect on seniors mental well being. Learn more about some of the best dog breeds for seniors.
7. Be Single and Ready to Mingle
Research shows that people who never married exercise more than any other relationship status. Although marriage is linked with plenty of positive health outcomes, married men are 25% more likely to be overweight or obese then there unmarried peers according to a 2014 study. Being single and going on dates can allow you an opportunity to seek a more active lifestyle by experiencing new adventures and trying new activities, which can rev your heart muscles both physically and emotionally.
8. Become a Crybaby
If laughter is the best medicine then how does crying help? Researchers in Florida found that almost 90% of people feel better after crying. It is suggested that shedding a few tears can help release chemicals that build up in our body during times of stress. So the next time you feel emotionally exhausted or find yourself watching a sappy movie, give yourself permission to let it all go and have a good ugly cry to help boost your mood.
9. Party, Party, Party
Let the Good Times Roll! Loneliness and social isolation have been associated with increased risk for depression, high blood pressure and mental decline. Visiting with your family and friends not only helps to strengthen bonds and create emotional connections, but also results in increased happiness. Spending time with your loved ones doing activities such as golfing, playing cards or dancing can combat senior isolation and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
10. Lay Back, Relax and Just Breathe
If you ever get to feeling overwhelmed or too stressed out, stop and take a moment to yourself. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth, and repeat until your heart rate slows. Using meditative breathing can help you relax tense muscles and lower your blood pressure. Following the principles and practices of yoga, coupled with meditative breathing, can also reduce hypertension and stress levels as well as help us to strengthen bones and build balance.
Just when you thought life had to be boring, along comes the news that just maybe those bad habits you’ve grown accustomed to, might actually be good for you. Keep in mind that almost everything is OK in moderation. Making daily choices to keep yourself healthy can be the difference between a life you love and a life you loathe, but not all decisions have to be difficult one. Life is what you make it. Keep your chin up, a smile on your face and a positive attitude and your health will follow your lead!
The information you need to know . . straight Up!
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