Young At Heart
July 4, 2024 | Events, General, Health & Wellness
Celebrate National Be A Kid Again Day This Month
Pablo Picasso famously said, “It takes a long time to grow young,” highlighting a profound truth about aging—that staying young at heart is a choice. National Be a Kid Again Day is on July 8, a time to embrace your inner child and be carefree, and Kline Galland encourages everyone to find the fun in their lives.
In that spirit, here are seven lively and scientifically supported ways to feel youthful and vibrant at any age.
1. Engage in Playful Activities
Why not revisit the games you played in childhood? Research shows that seniors who engage in play, particularly in groups, can increase their social connections, improve their confidence, and even improve their physical health. Activities like puzzles, board games, or even a friendly game of tag with grandchildren can boost brain health by enhancing memory and problem-solving skills.
2. Spend Time in Nature
Being outdoors is not just for kids. A 2019 study found that spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and well-being. Whether it’s a stroll through a park or a visit to a community garden, time spent in green spaces can reduce stress, increase physical activity, and renew a sense of wonder and exploration.
3. Learn Something New
Embrace the excitement of learning, just as a child would when discovering something new. As we age, we lose neurons, the information messengers in the brain that communicate with the entire brain. But taking up a new hobby or skill, like painting, dancing, or cooking, can literally grow new neurons in your brain. According to neurologists, this neural plasticity helps keep the brain sharp and active.
4. Foster Social Connections
Children make friends effortlessly, and there’s a lesson in that for adults too. Social interaction is crucial for mental and emotional health at any age. Research has shown that strong relationships lower anxiety and depression, raise self-esteem, and even strengthen the immune system Participating in community events or joining clubs can help maintain strong social ties, which are key to emotional support and longevity.
5. Laugh Often
Laughter truly can be the best medicine. It’s not only a stress reliever, but also has real short-term and long-ranging effects. Laughing immediately stimulates the organs, releases stress, and relieves tension. Over time, laughter can relieve pain, improve the immune system, boost self-esteem and mood, and increase personal satisfaction. Watching a comedy show, sharing a funny story, or simply reminiscing about amusing past events with friends can keep the heart light and youthful.
6. Adopt a Pet
“Can I keep him, Mom?” Animals can provide companionship, love easily, and encourage physical activity – essential for keeping a youthful spirit. If circumstances allow, consider adopting a pet. Studies have found that people with pets have healthier hearts, get sick less often, visit the doctor less, get more exercise, and feel more relaxed. Pets can also help social interactions with other people.
7. Keep Moving
Finally, physical activity is key. In addition to helping you sleep better and maintain a healthy weight, exercise can reduce the risk of dementia, heart disease, and cancer while improving bone health, balance, and coordination. Gentle exercises like yoga, tai chi, or even daily walks can be just as impactful as a hard workout. You don’t have to play dodgeball, but you do need to be active.
This National Be a Kid Again Day, we invite you to step back into the joys of youth. It’s not just about adding years to your life, but life to your years. Embrace each day with a childlike zest and watch how beautifully you grow young!
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Sources: Aging Mental Health; NIA; CBC; Better Health Channel; Mayo Clinic; National Center for Health Research; CDC
