The link between long life and mental health is more complex than you might realize. Regina Koepp, a board-certified clinical psychologist, said, “Our bodies and minds are not separate, which is why mental health and physical health are closely linked to aging.”
Maintaining mental health is vital to living a long, fulfilling, and healthy life. Focus on improving your mental and physical health while improving your mental health. Koepp recommends incorporating these simple steps into your daily life to improve your mental health.
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Engage In Activities With A Purpose
Engaging in purpose-based activities, hobbies, or spiritual practices can help foster mental health. Why? Koepp says you’ll be less stressed, which lowers your likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease, heart attacks, and depression. Koepp calls this one of her “favorite tips” for enhancing mental health.
Keeping An Active Lifestyle
Koepp notes that stretching is not enough to prevent heart disease and cognitive decline. She recommends moderate activity five days a week and strength-based activities like lifting weights two days a week. As a result, you produce more serotonin and endorphins, which decrease depression risk.
Maintain A Healthy Diet
Plant-based diets are best, but Koepp recommends eating food high in fiber, along with lentils, spinach, blueberries, and nuts. Healthy diets can lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart disease risks, says Koepp.
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Sleep Well
Koepp says good sleep is good for brain and body health. According to CDC recommendations, most adults should get at least seven hours of sleep every night. Koepp recommends avoiding screen time for at least an hour before bed, keeping your room dark, and keeping your bedroom cool for a good night’s sleep.
Embrace Aging With A Positive Attitude
Koepp says negative stereotypes about aging can harm your health. She says studies show people with a positive view of aging live seven and a half years longer than those with an opposing opinion. Koepp says that focusing on the positive will increase self-esteem and lower anxiety and stress.