By being able to refocus the mind on the present moment, seniors can benefit from mindful aging practices in their daily lives. By decreasing worry, mindfulness can contribute to decreased anxiety, depression, stress and more. Once in your golden years, it becomes imperative to partake in various activities that can help promote cognitive health and wellness. Let’s take a look at some options.
1. Breathing Exercises
Breath work is an extremely important part of calming the nervous system and mind. This meditative activity can be as simple as closing your eyes and observing your natural breath. You may also want to try some controlled breathing exercises, such as box breathing. This is when you breathe in for a count of five seconds, hold your breath for five seconds and then release the breath slowly for five seconds.
2. Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Lay down in a comfortable spot, scanning the body from top to bottom. As you go along, tense each muscle individually. After a few seconds, focus on relaxing these muscles fully.
3. Crafting
By creating a scrapbook of your favourite memories or knitting a blanket, your mind will focus on the task at hand. This will keep you focused, stimulate brain activity and help you feel accomplished when your project is completed.
4. Walking
Staying active is important for aging adults. Go for a walk for 15 to 30 minutes each day. You can head outside to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, or simply stick to the hallways of your retirement residence if the weather isn’t cooperating.
5. Listening to Music
Relaxing and listening to music is a great way to bring the focus back to the present moment. Certain sounds and notes will calm the body and mind, allowing you to feel more relaxed.
If you’re looking for a supportive retirement community that can support your mindful aging practices, reach out to our team here at Emerald Gardens. Our retirement community provides supportive and independent living in the Northern Alberta.