5 Ways to stay healthy after 40: Plan ahead and act on it so you age gracefully and happily

Age may be just a number, as some say. And that time and tide wait for none, is not challenged as well. But how we live those years will show on us in the years of appearance of the first strands of grey hair and the peeping of wrinkles on the face.Here's how to take stock of your health and other matters and revise your roadmap as you scale the age of 40, so that the years that follow are full of life, vivacity, good health, security, and joy.

1.)Don't skip the breakfast

While it is true that our appetite wanes in terms of volume of consumption, we tend to begin neglecting our dietery needs. Metabolism slows down 2% each decade so eating breakfast is essential as it catches the time of the day when our metabolism is at the peak. This becomes the driver of the active paricipation in activity that you may find yourself doing throughout the day.

2.)Dont skip the exercises: 

Just 30 minutes of brisk activity a day will help your bones and muscles stay agile and avert chances of injury in later years. No need to join a gym. Simple squats for the thighs, a Surya Namaskar regimen, stomach crunches  and you are set.

3.)Develop hobbies:

 In fact, do not wait till you are 40 to start developing hobbies. When you are 30-something, it helps to begin on this idea and remember that there is a beautiful life outside of your work. Find non-work activities that you can pursue for the rest of your life. Practicing a hobby could help you live longer and healthier as studies prove that those indulging in meaningful activities might be at lower risk for serious health problems. According to the National Institute on Aging, older adults who participated in activities they found important were reported to be healthier and happier

4.)Care for your eyes: 

Just as you take care of the rest of the body, be sure to take care of your eyes and vision, too. Book a comprehensive baseline eye exam with an ophthalmologist periodically. You need not have an eye problem, to begin with. Doctors will look for issues like glaucoma, cataracts, “dry eye” due to shifting hormones or staring at a computer screen all day. In fact, have all the tests that a normal 40+ person must have, perhaps every six months or one year, as the doctor advises. Breast cancer and cervical cancer screening for women, bone density and muscle mass screening for both sexes and any other nagging health issues you suspect.

5.)Dont miss out on sleep: 

To help improve sleep, doctors recommend sticking to a sleep schedule — going to bed and waking around the same time every day — even on weekends. Your body clock is sacred. Respect its role. For better and sound sleep, keep your bedroom dark, noise-free and cool.