A healthy mind doesn’t happen by chance. It takes effort and intention to maintain mental wellbeing. Challenging thinking abilities and engaging our minds is necessary for everyone, but these things are especially beneficial to us as we age. Here are some ways we can be sure to do everything possible to improve and manage our mental wellness.
Remember your past hobbies and do more of what you love. It may be time for the things you used to enjoy to make a comeback! If you set aside some hobbies years ago because life was hectic, now is your chance to get involved with them again. Anything you enjoy that will also challenge your mind will benefit your health. If you already know you enjoy playing a musical instrument, painting, or other low-impact activities, do those things more often.
Try something new and different too. Brand new hobbies and interests will require extra brain power, and that could be great for overall wellness. If there’s anything you’ve previously wanted to try but lacked the time to take on, incorporate it now. Enjoy the opportunities that come your way as you learn new skills, whether those are new languages or new ways to be active.
Build more activity into your everyday life. Make it a point to incorporate activity into your routine. There’s no need to complicate things for yourself. If you already have a great routine, think of ways you can fit in extra activity. For instance, if you already get the mail every day, take a walk to the end of the street and back before opening the mailbox. Even little things can have a big impact when you do them every day.
Spend more time with friends and in your community. Your friends, family and community play important roles in your life already. Good conversation and regular check-ins help everyone stay healthy. Whether we’re making new memories or reminiscing on times gone by, it’s important to maintain relationships.
Need more ideas? Here are some choices!
- Gardening
- Fishing
- Birdwatching
- Yoga or Pilates
- Creative writing or poetry
- Genealogy
- Classes at a community college or local university
- Flower arranging
- Cake decorating
Just like a healthy body needs activity to stay well, a healthy mind needs to keep learning and growing. We challenge you to consider a new activity you’d like to try and an old hobby you might like to revive. Click here to watch a great video from AARP on the subject!
If you’d like to connect with a home health companion who could help you continue to live well and make the most of your hobbies, call Care Placement Home Health Agency at 727-787-8677.