People have been living in the Phoenix area for millennia. One of the first groups to settle here were the Hohokam Indians, who resided in the Salt River basin for over 2,000 years. In the 15th century, the Hohokam culture disappeared for unknown reasons, perhaps due to a drought or flood. Over 400 years later, the town of Phoenix was created, with its name inspired by the legendary bird who dies and is reborn from its own ashes. Like that mythological creature, the founders hoped that the town of Phoenix would be reborn from the ashes of the Hohokam civilization.
The story of the phoenix appears in all kinds of ancient mythology, from the Egyptians to the Greeks and Romans. It’s been a favorite legend for countless cultures, and why wouldn’t it be? The idea of turning oneself from something old and decrepit into a fresh, rejuvenated young thing is certainly appealing. Luckily, you don’t have to set yourself on fire to turn back the clock a few years. Just try FastMed’s tips for feeling (and looking) young and healthy!
Take Good Care of Your Skin
Your skin is your largest organ, and it shows some of the first signs of aging, from wrinkles and crow’s feet to age spots. Taking care of your skin while you’re young can help you retain that youthful glow as you get older. And if you’re already in your golden years, don’t think it’s too late. Keep your skin in peak condition by regularly applying sunscreen whenever you’re outside. Your skin can still be damaged by UV rays even if the sun isn’t shining! Maintain a daily skincare regimen; wash and moisturize your face each night before you go to sleep, and use a loofah or washcloth when you shower to slough off dead skin cells.
Take Good Care of Your Heart
There are some organs you can live without – a kidney, an appendix, even your limbs. But the heart is your body’s engine, and you want to keep it well oiled (not literally, of course!). Daily exercise will keep your heart strong, so it takes less effort to pump the blood through your body, and your ticker may last a little longer. If you can’t exercise daily, don’t just give up; a little exercise is better than none. And with the beautiful weather in Phoenix, there’s no excuse for not getting out there and exercising – just be sure to stay hydrated!
Take Good Care of Your Mind
As we age, our brains change. The prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus can shrink, inhibiting memory, learning, planning, and other complex mental processes. Neurons may have trouble communicating with one another, and blood flow is often reduced. Keep your brain in good condition by maintaining a healthy lifestyle (which includes exercise!) and by regularly flexing those mental muscles. Try puzzles or Sudoku, play cards, or read books so your mind stays agile. Make sure you keep in touch with your friends and family members, since having a strong social group is linked to living longer. Your brain is a muscle just like your heart, so you have to exercise it!
Take Good Care of Your Stomach
What you eat matters, and not just because a healthy diet can help you maintain that svelte physique. A lot of research focuses on the Mediterranean diet, since people on this heart-healthy diet tend to stay healthier and live longer. This diet includes lots of healthy fats like avocados and olive oil, as well as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. It also limits red meats and processed foods like baked goods. If you don’t want to follow the Mediterranean diet, there are still ways to make improvements to what you eat. Food is fuel for your body and mind, so it’s no wonder it has a major impact on many aspects of the aging process.
While these tips won’t make you feel like a newborn again (which is probably a good thing – who wants diaper rash?), they will help you stay spry as you age. Those later years in your life can be an incredible blessing; perhaps you’ve retired, and have plenty of time to spend on those hobbies you used to love. Stay healthy and active now so your body is in peak physical and mental condition to do the things you enjoy.