None of us want to get any older, but its unavoidable. However we can make a some changes to our lifestyle that keep the mind and body healthy and active, and in return reduce the rate at which we may be growing older.  Here are my 5 top tips to reduce the ageing process:

Reduce Stress: Its easier said than done but stress is one of the major contributors to ill health, including heart attacks, strokes and high blood pressure. When we are stressed we release a hormone called cortisol, which can contribute to both physical and mental illness. Take some time out and do some breathing exercises or visualization or mindfulness exercises. Just 10 minutes a day can make all of the difference.  You can find some of these online which really do help. In the new year I will be bringing a new class to my timetable to help deal with this area of our lives.

Consume more good fat: We need to avoid bad fats of course but this we should eliminate good fats. In particular Omega fats found in salmon, walnuts and seeds are needed to maintain bone strength and boost the body’s efficiency to use fat stores in our bodies and turn them into energy. Omega 3 s can also make your skin more radiant.

Get off the couch: Not only does regular exercise help you lose weight, tone muscles and boost your mood it can also help you think more clearly and keep your mind active. Walking for just 10 minutes a day lowers your risk of dementia by 40 %, that alone is a fantastic reason to keep active!

Do yoga: Yoga can give you more energy, better posture, greater flexibility, improve your mood, and leave your feeling very relaxed. All of these translate into major anti-aging advantages. My yoga class is suitable for all levels and ages as you can always work to your own level. You will see improvement in your mind and body, even after doing 1 hour a week, over a few weeks.

Drink more water: I am always encouraging my ladies in class to drink more water. After all it is the fountain of youth! Ideally i recommend 2/3 litres each day and more if you work out. Water is one of the best things you can drink to keep your skin fresh and looking young. It can also boost your metabolism and flush out your internal organs.  It is particularly good to drink a cup of warm water in the morning, this will flush out toxins that lurk in your body,  and  warm water can help improve the digestion process.  Why not try a glass tomorrow morning and try for the next few days, and see how it makes you feel?

Hope these help!

Bev x