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Ever seen someone who's no longer young, but still looks fresh and energetic like a college student? Tight skin, fit body, and a really positive aura. I often think, what's their secret? Did they perhaps find a fountain of youth on Mount Gede? After researching here and there, I finally found 7 simple habits that are apparently powerful in making the body feel 10 years younger. Let's uncover them together!
1. Sufficiently Provide Your Body With Antioxidants
"Eat colorful food to be healthy!" You've probably heard this advice often. But, do you know why colorful fruits and vegetables are so important for staying young? Here's the thing, each color indicates a different type of antioxidant. These antioxidants are like the body's guard troops, fighting free radicals that cause aging.
For example, tomatoes and watermelons that are bright red are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that keeps skin firm. Spinach and kale that are fresh green are full of lutein, which is good for eye health. Carrots and pumpkins that are golden yellow are rich in beta-carotene, which makes the skin glow.
"But, it's so complicated to have to eat so many colors?" Relax, it doesn't have to be difficult. Making a fruit and vegetable smoothie, or a colorful salad is enough. Or, just buy cut fruit at the market. Simple, right?
2. Move for at Least 30 Minutes at a Time
Our bodies are like machines, they need to be warmed up so they don't rust. Light exercise like walking, yoga, or aerobic exercise is very effective in keeping the body fit and young. Don't like heavy exercise? Try dancing around in your room while listening to your favorite music. Guaranteed to make you sweat but your heart happy!
According to my family's regular doctor who is 75 but looks 55, exercise doesn't just make the body healthy, but it also makes the mind fresh. This is because exercise improves blood circulation, increases collagen production (the protein that makes skin supple), and reduces stress.
3. Make Your Sleep Quality
"Beauty sleep" isn't a made-up term, you know. When we sleep, our bodies repair themselves, regenerating damaged cells. If you get enough sleep (7-8 hours), your skin becomes more radiant, your eyes aren't puffy, and your mind is clear. I once accidentally saw a neighbor's mother who is a career woman and already 50 but her facial skin is very well-maintained, I was surprised when she said her secret is enough sleep.
A foolproof tip, turn off the lights and gadgets an hour before bed. Make the bedroom atmosphere as comfortable as possible. Guaranteed you'll sleep soundly!
4. Use Sunscreen to Protect Your Skin
Sunlight is indeed a source of vitamin D, but too much can make the skin age quickly, cause dark spots, and even skin cancer. So, never forget to wear sunscreen every day, even if the weather is cloudy. Choose one with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every 2-3 hours.
I once read an article about a study in Australia. Apparently, people who regularly use sunscreen have a 24% lower risk of wrinkles compared to people who rarely use it. Crazy, right?
5. Drink at Least 8 Glasses of Water a Day
Water is like a "magic potion" for our bodies. Drinking enough water (at least 8 glasses a day) keeps the skin moist, supple, and radiant. Don't like plain water? Add slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint leaves. Very refreshing!
There's an interesting story. An old woman in the village where I once lived, she always looked fresh and healthy, and apparently one of her secrets was always consuming enough water.
6. A Calm Mind is Key
Stress is the sworn enemy of staying young. Try, starting now, to practice "mindfulness". Praying, meditating, doing yoga, or just taking walks in the park are very effective in calming and relaxing the mind. Believe me, a calm soul makes the face shine too.
I used to be very stressed out because of work. But, after regularly meditating, my life became more relaxed and happy. And, apparently, my face looks younger too!
7. Laugh to Relax Your Body
Who would have thought that laughing can make you stay young? When we laugh, our bodies release endorphins, which make us feel happy and relaxed. Besides that, laughing also improves blood circulation and reduces stress.
Try watching comedy movies, reading funny comics, or hanging out with hilarious friends. Guaranteed your life will be more colorful!
"Wow, it turns out the secret to staying young is so simple, huh?" Yes, indeed! The key is to be consistent and
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