You’ll be surprised to learn that there are everyday bad habits that age you faster without you noticing it! It’s pretty safe to say that just about everyone wants to look younger, with the possible exception of teenagers. That’s why the age-defying industry is so huge! People spend their hard earned cash to make themselves appear younger. And they are willing to try the weirdest spa treatments in the name of vitality. While expensive creams and beauty procedures do their bit, the biggest anti-aging secret lies in the adjustments we make in our lives and daily routines.
Here are some everyday bad habits that age you faster without you noticing it!
If you usually say yes to dessert and other treats, such as pastries and candy bars, you may find yourself aging prematurely. With that said, crash dieting is never a good idea either. And if your exercise plan starts every January 1st and lasts only until you’re able to fit back into your jeans, you may be cheating yourself out of longevity. Let’s not forget about those harmful UV rays! It pays to wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days, because clouds only block about 20 percent of UV rays. And UV rays cause free radicals that can damage your collagen, elastin and skin cells.
When was the last time you took time for yourself – perhaps an evening, or even just an hour?
While this sounds impossible to many of us, the fact is, no one is ever going to make the time for you. It’s something you must do for yourself, and it’s an important way to prevent premature aging. And be sure not to skimp on sleep! But that’s not all! The way you sleep matters too. Sleeping with your face smashed into a pillow can make you look years older. Over time, as collagen breaks down, this trauma aggravated by the friction of a cotton pillowcase can create permanent creases in your face.
It’s time to stop sweating the small stuff
It is evident that stress accelerates the aging process by causing a chemical imbalance in the body. The effects of stress are not visible right away because they are more internal, but gradually, if we are consistently stressed, we will see it! While a glass of wine a couple of times a week is certainly not an issue, using alcohol as an escape from daily troubles might be making you old before your time. Since we’re talking stress, many people reach for a cigarette to cope. But smoking is one of those bad habits that age you faster without you noticing it! Just one more reason to quit today!
Picture yourself five, ten, twenty years from now
Will you be vibrant, strong, and aging gracefully? Or will you be looking older than what your age would suggest? That the choice is in your hands. It’s those little habits that you do every day that can determine how healthy and happy you’ll be down the road. Fortunately, the choices and habits that promote wellness as you age are also great ways to take care of yourself now. It’s time to quit bad habits for good!