Contents - 3 minute read:

• Inform - What habits have you adopted that make you feel old - replace them now !

• Educate - How to use the wall to perfect your balance - exercise tips

• Motivate - Meet 2 examples of seniors living life in style

• Celebrate - Positive thinking day

Aging is a perfectly natural process and one we should be proud of. Being more advanced in years brings the benefit of wisdom and maturity that helps you manage the challenges of life, but are some of your habits making you old? We have all met people and been amazed at how young they appear for their age and I’m sure that we have all been surprised to learn that someone is not as old as you first thought. What is it that makes a person appear older than their years and how do YOU ensure that you don’t fall into that trap ? Lets look at some factors that can contribute:

• Style - The way you present yourself to the world matters. First impressions count and we all use the way someone looks to formulate a picture of who that person might be. Take a look at yourself, how are you presenting yourself to the world? The COVID pandemic resulted in a surge of people dressing for comfort as we were no longer going out to socialise. As a result we saw an increase in stay at home leisure wear. Have you dropped your style standards recently? If you have lost your direction take a look at people or friends you admire. What is it about the way they present themselves to the world that you can copy? Do a wardrobe check and pull out those old friends that you used to feel good wearing and start putting them back on. Consider a visit to the hairdresser or invest in a new lipstick. Little things count and can make a world of difference.

• Sleep - Did you know that nearly ¾ of adults in the UK do not get the recommended quantity of sleep? You should be aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Being deprived of sleep can lead to cardiac problems, dementia and diabetes. Having poor quality sleep can lead to headaches and being short tempered. Revisit your sleep routine to make sure you are ready to seize the day.

• Never trying or learning anything new - The pace of life is fast these days, so you don’t need to keep up to date with everything, but being resistant to trying new things can become a habit that leads nowhere. Life has become more screen based now and if you are resisting the change get down to the local community centre and take a computer course. Ask a friend to show you how to make life easier by considering gadgets like a self mowing lawnmower. Grandchildren will only be too happy to get you up to speed with latest technology if you invite them around for afternoon tea. The absence of mental stimulation can make a day mundane and long, broaden your horizons and reap the rewards

• Being physically inactive - Not being physically active will affect how you walk, sit and the quality of your life in general. Starting to weaken and fatigue means you start to limit your choices. You may avoid using the stairs or say no to invitations that mean you have to walk any distance. We can all get stronger and fitter no matter what our age. Don't use your age as an excuse not to be fit and strong

• Lifestyle - Sun, smoking and alcohol can all hasten the aging process both inside and out. Ensure you avoid getting sunburnt and keep smoking and drinking in check

• Isolation - Ok I know I said 5 things but this is important too. Get out in the world and meet people. Social interactions widen your perspective and can help you see the world in different ways. Consider how you can socialise with a mixture of age groups too, you will be surprised what you learn 😄 

Helen Mirren is a very stylish lady. Whether on the red carpet or in her daily routine she looks fabulous. Take a look at what you might learn from her style. Anthony Hopkins is another prime example of how to strut your stuff whatever your age

We all need some inspiration and I would like to share with you 2 examples of ladies who do it in style. Lets give a shout out to artfulcitystyle for ideas on outfits for looking good about town

Check out advanced style on instagram if you want many examples of ladies and men who rock their age and are not afraid to stand out in a crowd 😁 

advancedstyle

View more on Instagram

September 13 is positive thinking day. We can all slip into a negative mindset and if we don’t keep tabs on ourselves it can become our default. Lets look at ways we can create positivity on this day and every day .

• Compliment someone - Actively look for positive things to say about someone today. If someone has made a special effort to help you or listen to you then make a point of thanking you for it. Did you ever compliment a stranger? Make a point to try it this week, it will make someone’s day and will send out positive vibes

• Gratitude. - list all the things you are grateful for. Once you get going, the list will be never ending. Your health , pet , family , the beautiful tree in your local park. Make a point to notice and appreciate.

• Treat yourself - We are succumb to negative talk. Treat yourself today to a compliment , warm soak in the bath , put your best dress on , read a book all afternoon, whatever floats your boat but love yourself - you deserve it too.

• Take positive action - instead of looking at life as a problem, search for solutions. Tidy the garden instead of moaning about it , pay that bill you’ve been putting off paying, go out and walk if your body feels stiff . Moving towards positivity rather than the opposite can really lighten your outlook

Are you active and would like to feature here? We would love to hear from you! Get in touch, preferably with a picture so we can celebrate and promote you living your best life. Just reply to this newsletter