Here are 10 valuable tips on living a longer, healthier and happier life.
1) HAVE A REASON FOR LIVING
You must have a reason to get up in the morning, to put your pants on, to remain active. It may be family members that depend on you, career goals, a pet, even a part-time volunteer job at the local hospital, church or civic organization. The important point is to never stop actively caring about other people.
2) DON’T FIGHT LIFE
Some people complain all the time. Every little ache or pain, every problem, every disappointment is seen as an excuse to moan and groan. The secret to happiness is to accept whatever life offers with a smile and to make the best of whatever situation you’re in.
3) DO EVERYTHING IN MODERATION
Moderation is clearly the secret for good health. Don’t allow emotions like greed, envy or fear to drive you toward excessive behavior. What you eat and drink, how you work and play – all should be done in a sensible way. Maintain a sense of balance in everything you do.
4) TRY SOAKING IN A HOT TUB TO RELAX
World-famous doctor Robert Buckley suggests soaking for 20 minutes or so in a bathtub of warm water with about 40-50 dissolved aspirin. According to Buckley, this safe, simple routine works wonders for all kinds of aches and pains. For a mini-bath, try soaking aching hands or feet for about 15 minutes in a sink or bucketful of warm water with about 10 dissolved aspirin.
5) DEVELOP HEALTHY SELF-ESTEEM
Build confidence and self-esteem by picturing yourself as successful. Working hard at anything – a job, hobby or relationship – can help you develop pride and confidence in yourself and your abilities. Remember, everyone feels frightened and insecure at times. Your’re not alone. Building up a good sense of self-esteem can help you can cope with the “down” times better.
6) TRY ACTING
Having a bad day? Put on a happy face. Smile, even if it hurts! Before you know it, your whole day will be changed around and life will look pretty good again.
7) PRACTICE GOOD POSTURE
Stand erect, sit straight and learn to move gracefully. You’ll look better and feel better about yourself.
8) AVOID FATIGUE
Fatigue rarely comes from overexertion. Underexertion is more likely the cause.
To avoid fatigue:
*Eat well-balanced meals. Don’t skimp on breakfast or you’ll get tired in the afternoon.
*Exercise more. Exercise increases energy. It also helps you sleep better if you exercise in the early evening.
*Sleep more. If you often get drowsy during the day, go to bed an hour earlier and add an extra hour of sleep at night.
*Work at your peak times. Schedule tough jobs for the time of the day you usually feel most energetic.
*Take breaks. Even if you love your job or the activity you’re performing, it helps to stop, stretch, walk or just relax.
9) MEET NEW PEOPLE
If you have a problem getting out to meet new people, try telephoning. Or read the classified ads in the local newspaper. There’s usually someone else who’s lonely and needs someone to talk to. You might even try running an ad for a companion. Most newspapers will run a “blind ad” box number. Be creative. Let your imagination run amuck. You’ll find you’re having fun again.
10) DO SOMETHING FOR SOMEONE ELSE
You’ll feel better, look better and live longer!