We are almost at the end of January. How did you do? Although the date has come and gone, are you aware that the second Friday of January is referred to as “Quitters Day?” The initial enthusiasm of making resolutions fades rather quickly and it becomes apparent that many abandon their resolutions.
ATTAINABLE
We hear it repeatedly every year. Dry January, keto, more gym time, less social media time and making time for things that are truly important. Failure occurs when we don’t make our goals attainable, then we feel defeated when we don’t measure up. If we set goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely, we might enjoy greater success.
GYM RAT
I’ve been going to the same gym for over 35 years. This is not a new resolution for me. It is a large facility and over the years I’ve seen many of the same old faces and even more new ones. I’ve acquired friends from different generations and all fitness levels which I appreciate.
BENEFITS FOR ALL
John and I have a fairly large social network. We get together with some people in their young 20’s, we have friends deep into their 80’s along with many in between. There is so much to learn from intergenerational friendships. Often when making friends, we tend to look for people in our own age group because we assume they will share common views and experiences.
NOT
This is not always true. Connections are made when like-minded people, regardless of age find each other fun, interesting and enjoyable. You don’t need your birth year tattooed across your forehead when deciding who you like spending time with. The older generation brings often forgotten social skills, wisdom and experience while the younger generation might be more adept in the digital age and technology.
BETTER HEALTH
Whatever age group you work or socialize with, keep in mind the those with strong social connections may have a lower risk of many health problems including depression, high blood pressure and unhealthy weight. Friends can boost your happiness, lower your stress, improve your confidence and help you cope. Www.mayoclinic.org says studies have shown that older adults who have close friends and a healthy social network are likely to live longer than their peers who have fewer friends.
HAPPY AND HEALTHY
A great way to get and stay healthy and happy is to reconnect with old friends as well as make new ones. Pick up the phone, write a letter, send a text or drop them an instant message. Reach out and take time to reconnect. The fact is that when spending time with friends or loved ones, neurochemicals like endorphins, oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin are released into your bloodstream elevating your mood and optimizing your hormonal response to stress.
HDD
We invite all of our friends from multi-generations to be mindful of their physical, mental and emotional health. If diagnostic ultrasound is indicated by your healthcare provider, call your friends at HDD at 505-350-3397.