We’ve all seen those individuals who seem to defy the laws of aging, still sporting a youthful glow in their 70s. It’s not just about good genes – it’s about lifestyle choices.
These sprightly septuagenarians usually have a few tricks up their sleeves; daily habits that they’ve adopted and stuck to, which help them keep their youthful appearance.
Looking young at 70 isn’t an impossible feat and I’m here to share the secrets. In this article, you’ll discover 8 daily habits most commonly found in those who still look young in their 70s. These are simple practices that you can incorporate into your life, starting today.
Ready to get started on the path to looking younger, longer? Let’s dive in!
1) They prioritize sleep
Sleep is often overlooked when it comes to maintaining a youthful look. But those who remain young-looking well into their 70s know the importance of a good night’s sleep.
When we sleep, our body goes into repair mode, working on the damage done to our skin during the day. This includes the damage from UV rays and pollution, which can accelerate the aging process.
Sleep deprivation, on the other hand, can lead to an increase in cortisol, a stress hormone that can break down collagen – the protein that keeps our skin smooth and elastic.
So, those enviable folks who still look fresh-faced and vibrant in their 70s are likely to be getting plenty of sleep each night. It’s a simple yet effective habit you can adopt today.
Remember, it’s not only about quantity but quality too. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night for optimal results.
Just like your body, your skin needs time to rest and rejuvenate. Don’t deprive it of that chance.
2) They maintain a balanced diet
Eating well is another cornerstone of looking younger. I’ve noticed this first hand with my grandmother, who’s in her late 70s but could easily pass for someone in their early 60s.
She’s always been mindful of her diet, ensuring she eats a variety of foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. She often tells me that “you are what you eat” and looking at her, I can’t help but believe it.
Her daily diet consists of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats – all foods that deliver the necessary nutrients to keep her skin glowing and body healthy.
She rarely eats processed foods, which can be high in sugar and unhealthy fats that accelerate aging. Instead, she cooks most meals at home using fresh ingredients.
Following my grandmother’s footsteps, I’ve been trying to incorporate more of these wholesome foods into my own diet. And I must say, I’ve started noticing a difference not just in how I look, but also in how I feel.
Adopting a balanced diet is not just about looking young, it’s about feeling youthful and energetic too. And that’s something we can all benefit from at any age.
3) They stay hydrated
Water plays a crucial role in keeping our skin looking young and radiant. It helps to maintain the optimal moisture level in our skin and aids in detoxification, which reflects on our skin’s health and vibrancy.
Those who age gracefully make it a point to stay well-hydrated throughout the day. They don’t wait until they’re thirsty to drink water; it’s a continuous process for them.
Hydration is not just about drinking water. Foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, watermelon, and strawberries, also contribute to your hydration levels.
Did you know that our skin is 64% water? This explains why dehydration can lead to dry, flaky skin and wrinkles over time.
So, the next time you see someone in their 70s with a youthful glow, chances are they’re keeping themselves well-hydrated. Make it a habit to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, and remember – if you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.
4) They exercise regularly
Physical activity is a key component when it comes to maintaining a youthful appearance. People who look young in their 70s are often those who have made exercise a regular part of their lifestyle.
Exercise increases blood circulation, which helps to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your skin, keeping it healthy and vibrant. It also helps to flush out toxins from your body, giving you a natural glow.
Additionally, regular physical activity can help to reduce stress, which can have a significant impact on your skin’s health and appearance.
It doesn’t necessarily mean hitting the gym every day. Activities such as walking, swimming, yoga, or even gardening can all contribute to maintaining a youthful appearance.
Remember, the goal isn’t to become an athlete, but rather to keep your body moving. So find an activity that you enjoy and stick with it. Your skin will thank you!
5) They practice mindfulness
Aging gracefully isn’t just about the physical aspects, it’s also about the state of mind. And those who retain their youthful glow well into their 70s often have a mindfulness practice in place.
Mindfulness is about being present in the moment, focusing on the here and now rather than worrying about the past or anticipating the future. It’s about acknowledging our thoughts and feelings without judgement.
Practicing mindfulness can significantly reduce stress, which we know is a major contributor to aging. It helps us to maintain a positive outlook on life, reflecting as a radiant glow on our faces.
Moreover, living in the present moment allows us to truly appreciate life and all its beauty, which in turn radiates a youthful energy.
So whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few moments each day to focus on your breath, mindfulness can be a game-changer when it comes to aging gracefully. It’s not just about adding years to our life, but life to our years.
6) They protect their skin
Growing up in Australia, I’ve seen the harsh effects of the sun on skin. My parents always emphasized the importance of sun protection, and as I grew older, I understood why.
Those who look young in their 70s are often vigilant about protecting their skin from harmful UV rays. Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature skin aging, causing wrinkles, age spots and even increasing the risk of skin cancer.
They make it a habit to apply sunscreen every day, regardless of whether it’s sunny or cloudy outside. They also tend to wear hats or protective clothing when they’re out in the sun for extended periods.
Looking at my parents now, both in their 70s, I see the benefits of their lifelong practice. Their skin is smoother and has fewer wrinkles compared to many of their peers.
It’s never too late to start protecting your skin. So grab that sunscreen, put on a hat, and shield your skin from those harmful rays. Your future self will thank you!
7) They limit alcohol
Alcohol may be a part of celebrating and socializing, but in excess, it can take a toll on your appearance. Those who maintain a youthful glow in their 70s typically moderate their alcohol intake.
Alcohol can dehydrate the skin, making it appear dull and lifeless. It can also interfere with your sleep patterns, which we’ve already established play a significant role in maintaining youthful skin.
Moreover, excessive alcohol can lead to inflammation and damage the liver over time, which can impact the overall health of your skin.
Those who age well often opt for healthier alternatives like herbal tea or infused water. When they do indulge, they ensure to hydrate by drinking water alongside their alcoholic beverage.
Remember, it’s all about balance. A glass of red wine every now and then won’t make you age overnight, but moderation is key for long-term youthful looks.
8) They embrace aging
Perhaps the most important habit of all is this: those who look young in their 70s have a positive attitude towards aging. They embrace it as a natural part of life, not something to be feared or fought against.
This positive outlook reflects on their appearance. They wear their age with confidence and grace, which gives them a youthful glow that no skincare product can replicate.
They understand that aging is inevitable but how they age is largely in their hands. They own their age, their lines, their experiences, and their wisdom.
So embrace every stage of life, every line, every gray hair. Each one tells a story of a life lived, and there’s nothing more beautiful than that.
Final reflection: It’s more than skin deep
The journey to maintaining a youthful appearance in your 70s and beyond is about more than just the condition of your skin. It’s a holistic process that involves the mind, body, and soul.
These daily habits might seem simple, but their impact is profound. They are not just about preserving the elasticity of your skin or preventing wrinkles. They are about cultivating a lifestyle that promotes overall health and well-being.
When we take care of our bodies, eat healthily, stay active, and nurture our mental health, it reflects on our appearance. Our skin glows, our eyes sparkle, and an infectious youthful energy radiates from within us.
Remember this quote by Sophia Loren, “There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.”
So as you reflect on these habits and consider incorporating them into your daily routine, remember that looking young at 70 starts with feeling young at heart. It’s about embracing life with all its ups and downs and living each day to its fullest. That’s the true secret to aging gracefully.
