I’m sure you’d agree that life can be stressful. You may have also heard about the negative impacts of stress on both your mental and physical health. Relaxation is an overlooked activity that combats the effects of stress and improves the quality of life as you age. Let’s explore how the elderly can practice relaxation with 6 tips and strategies.
Rest and Relaxation
Rest and relaxation, or ‘RnR’, is of the most critical yet overlooked element in ageing well. When we think about ageing well and good health, we immediately look towards diet and exercise.
Many may ridicule the thought of how relaxing can help our overall health which can be a deterrent for kicking back in the sofa to begin with. RnR is in fact an essential part of fighting off the consequences of stress and ensuring longevity and an excellent quality of life. While we all need to focus on ourselves from time to time and relax, it is especially important for us all in our later years of life.
Relaxation for the Elderly
As we age, we can be more susceptible to health complications, and therefore relaxation becomes a vital part of improving and maintaining health. For the ageing adult, relaxation can help alleviate possible risk factors that lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Stress is one of the main contributing factors to high blood pressure and has been directly linked to 10% of all strokes. Whilst we may think it is simply an ‘overwhelmed mind’, stress has literally dozens of ways it can harm your physical body too.
Relaxation is a powerful tool in fighting some of the more common ailments like cold and flu. Stress on the mind and body can increase inflammation, reduce immunity, and make your body more vulnerable to germs and bacteria.
Crafty Idea
I’m an artist, and one of my greatest loves is bringing a sketch to life in front of my eyes with my full undivided attention. No external stressors impact me when I’m ‘in the zone’, I’m simply in my happy place creating something from nothing.
Creating art stimulates the mind and body to a soft degree. How can you think of all the bad things in your life when you’re wondering what colour to choose next?
How can your stress about whether the grandkids will still visit you when they are older whilst using precision to knit a blanket. You will notice your mind and body relax as you give in to it and you will really enjoy it.
Focusing on drawing objects using pencils or paint work to help those who are struggling relax and focus on positive feelings. Engaging in art therapy can help seniors better cope with these issues and provide positive outlets for their frustration. – AmeriCare
Soaking Bliss
Another easy way to relax is by simply having a soak in the bath. Lean back and soothe tense muscles, enjoying the warmth of water engulfing your body. This activity also gives you some much-needed downtime.
Of course, there are some of us who don’t have a bath at home, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the bubbles and the fragrance. A foot spa or an extra-long shower can help you a good level of relaxation too.
Natural Effects
There is nothing like a stroll through the park or the woods. I love the echoes of the birds, a possible stream ahead with water crashing against some pebbles. Getting out into nature can have some remarkably healing and restorative powers. Why not have a picnic with you and a friend or two – and make a day of it.
Awaken your senses
Have you ever had a cup of tea or coffee during a busy day and the first sip helps you to calm your thoughts and present at that moment? I have and it helps brings me back to earth and relax me. It may be a quick buzz but it is just what I need to help refocus and remember to relax. It’s even better when you share a cuppa with a loved one. We all love to chat over a cuppa here in Ireland and this could be why it helps us to relax.
Why not pop the kettle on now and have a cuppa now?
Should you or someone you know benefit from the easy pour Uccello Kettle, please feel free to view more on our website.
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