860.265.4427If you’re aging in place it may be challenging to keep your energy level where it needs to be to stay active. It can be tempting when no one is watching to skip any physical activity for the day and just relax on the couch. This can be a habit that forms quite easily and quickly as your energy gets zapped by the lack of physical activity and therefore you don’t have the energy to get up off the couch to become physically active. It is a snowball effect that builds on itself day after day.
There is plenty of research that demonstrates the positive impact that physical activity can have on your mental health, your physical health and your cognitive health. While mobility may present a challenge, in most cases it is not insurmountable and can be overcome with some tweaks to a traditional workout or set of physical activities. For instance, if you are unable to practice yoga, you can modify the typical poses to work for you if you are wheelchair bound or even confined to your bed.
For many the prospect of becoming physically active when you may not have been for quite some time can be daunting. However, if you take it slow and one step at a time you will be able to ease your way back into physical activity and you will start to see the gradual benefits of it. Believe it or not, physical activity doesn’t always start with the act of becoming physically active, it takes both a mental and physical shift in your behaviors. Here’s how to get started and maintain your energy.
1.) Start with a look at your diet. Healthy eating habits are one of the best things you can do to maintain your energy levels. A good balanced diet can provide your body with the appropriate nutrients that will keep you fueled and ready to tackle the physical activity that you are longing for to keep your life balanced.
2.) Get a good night’s sleep. This can be a real challenge especially if you are facing any medical conditions that could prevent you from getting the sleep your body needs. Sleep, however, is a critical component to a healthy energy level and can be the difference between you be ready to go when it comes time to get your physical activity in for the day or being worn down and not able to muster the strength and the energy to accomplish your goals.
3.) Keep your mind active. Playing games or reading may not seem like something that would have an impact on your direct ability to maintain an active lifestyle, but if your mind is active it will be much easier for your body to remain active.
The bottom line is that your mind, body and soul need to be working in harmony for you to maintain the type of active lifestyle that many desire while aging in place. Physical activity can keep you feeling youthful and energized even if you have other medical conditions that may be making you feel less than your best. Keep in mind that no matter how physically active you currently are you can always take small, baby steps, to get to the place where you want to be. Simple steps like standing up and walking around your home, if you’re able, will get you feeling better and allow you to take the next small step which will lead to the next and so on.
Maintaining the energy you need to be active while you are aging in place can be a challenge, but taking some of the steps discussed above is a good starting place. Before you begin any sort of physical activity you should consult your medical provider to make sure you are able to be physical in the way you’re attempting to be.
