Most of us know that as we get older, it’s more critical to prioritize the basics of wellness: getting plenty of exercise, enjoying a balanced diet, staying socially and intellectually active, and minimizing day-to-day stress.
However, putting those principles into practice may be easier said than done. Here at The Mayflower at Winter Park, Wellness Coordinator Sarah Burke often works with residents who are trying to embrace a more balanced lifestyle, and she’s talked to many who struggle to maintain motivation after encountering roadblocks.
“Fitness is a long-term journey,” she says. “I always tell people that it’s not about getting fired up to make a big leap forward to achieve your goals. It’s about taking small steps every day to arrive at a healthier you.”
Anyone, at any age, can build habits for a happier and healthier life. It just takes time, dedication, and a willingness to have fun along the way:
- Set Achievable Goals. It’s tempting to go all-out when you’re just getting started on a new fitness routine – but Sarah advises starting small and working your way up to long-term habits: “If you set your goal too high, you’ll get burned out quickly when it feels unattainable. Instead, start with something you know you can achieve and build on that success.”
- Stay Consistent. Daily repetition is the number one most important factor in building healthy habits – and research suggests it can take from several weeks to several months of sticking to a routine before it starts to feel like second nature. Don’t give up if you miss a few days – instead, focus on getting back on track.
- Use the Buddy System. Group exercise can boost the benefits of physical activity and make you more likely to stick to your routine. “It always helps to have a friend who can help you stay accountable,” Sarah says. “And even better if they’re someone you love to spend time with!” Here at The Mayflower, our wide array of classes – from water aerobics to Zumba – offers many opportunities to enjoy fitness with friends.
- Prioritize Exercise. “I encourage people to think of exercise like going to the doctor,” says Sarah. “If you have a health check-up scheduled at noon and someone invites you to lunch, you’d say, ‘Sorry, I have a doctor’s appointment.’ Exercise should be the same kind of priority – because it’s no less important to your well-being.”
- Embrace Variety. Fitness takes many forms, so don’t limit yourself to just one. “If you start to feel bored or unmotivated, chances are you need to change it up,” Sarah says. “Explore, experiment and find something you love to do – whether that’s dance, gardening, walking outside, or trying a new fitness class.”
Find out more about The Mayflower’s commitment to supporting every dimension of wellness, and embark on your Life Plan in a community that empowers residents with creativity, culture, connection and award-winning healthcare. Get in touch or give us a call at 407.672.1620 to plan your visit. We look forward to hearing from you!