Humans are complex beings. We are influenced by circumstances, others and ourselves. We are much more than the sum of our parts as we interact with the world around us.
Our biology impacts how we think, feel and believe and the opposite is also true. Diet, exercise routines and how much sleep we get every night can also have a significant effect on our mental responses and emotions.
Examples of the mind, body and spirit at work
If you pay attention, it becomes easier to see how the three elements intermingle naturally. A change in one area will cause a reaction in another. One example is how the practiced act of meditation can result in destressing, lessening chronic pain and even lowering blood pressure and heart rate. Other examples include:
- If you exercise regularly, you may notice your positive feelings dip or you feel a little down if your routine is interrupted or stopped due to an injury or illness.
- If you are under stress, you may find your body responds by feeling hungry or you become irritable.
- If you have a really good day and feel in control and strong, you may see a quick turn-around in your mood or confidence.
- Those who participate regularly in their faith’s community, may feel more hopeful and secure about the future.
The key to life is balance
As with almost everything in life, maintaining balance seems to help keep us in check. Researching on-line sites reveals many suggestions for addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit, as well as how to open up new possibilities and beliefs.
If you find yourself feeling off-center, consider these suggestions to help realign:
- Meditate regularly to improve memory, attention and moods.
- Practice yoga to build strength and coordination.
- Get at least 15 minutes of exercise each day.
- Make sure to spend time outside daily.
- Increase the amount of plant-based foods to your diet.
- Volunteer for an organization that supports your passion and cause.
- Take time to acknowledge what you have and express your gratitude.
- Slow down, rest and relax every day to replenish and renew.
- Nurture your passion, whether it’s painting, singing, dancing or working in your garden.
- Strive for laughter and love in your life.
Five strategies to find the right symmetry
The lives of most people today are filled from morning to night, leaving little time to reset areas where we might have become unbalanced. We often wait to respond only when we’re in crisis, but there is a better way.
Review these 5 strategies, recommended by Patricia Flanigan, who promotes healthy aging and is the founding director for Smart Strategies for Successful Living.
1. Make time for yourself
People often mistakenly think this strategy is selfish but it’s critical for you to make yourself a priority. You still care for others, but you structure your life to prioritize your health and well-being.
2. Be responsive to change
One of the best steps you can take is to accept that your body and mind will undergo inevitable changes as you grow older. And the behaviors that may have worked when you were younger no longer are as effective.
3. Keep up to date on healthy living’s best practices
There are numerous resources available to you regarding the latest in diets, exercise or other actions you can take to positively affect your health.
4. Take control of your healthcare
Be proactive with your healthcare and keep regular medical appointments and check-ups. Make sure your doctors listen to your concerns and take the time to be partners with you concerning your health.
5. Find the joy in living
It’s easy to forget that so much we feel in life is by choice. Keeping a positive attitude and distracting yourself from negativity and daily concerns can make all the difference. Meet new people or reconnect with old friends. Enjoy nature and be grateful.
How independent living can help keep your mind, body and spirit in check
If you choose to move into an independent living community, you may discover it easier to find balance for your mind, body and spirit.
You’ll find life in the right community will be supported by engaging activities and enrichment programs that offer you a chance to expand your mind but also socially interact with your neighbors and new friends.
Communities also place a priority on the physical health of their residents. They will usually provide a fitness center, opportunities for exercise activities and offer nutritional meal selections.
Most communities will also provide a place for their residents to spend time in a worship service of their choice, on-site. And for those who find their spirituality fed more by a quiet walk or while expressing what they feel in their heart by painting on canvas, you’ll find those spaces too.
Ingleside at Rock Creek Independent Living
At Ingleside, we recognize that all of our residents are more than one dimensional. Our amenities, services and activities are all designed to help you reach a healthy balance for the mind, body and spirit.
We place a high priority on wellness for our residents, which includes physical, spiritual, emotional, social, vocational, environmental and intellectual dimensions. From our quality homes, chef-prepared meals, first-class fitness center and health facilities, you’ll find launching your retirement couldn’t be easier as you create and continue a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to engage and embrace your retirement life, we invite you to visit our independent living community at Rock Creek.
Call (202) 905-0018 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personalized tour today.