How do you define “being healthy”? At Renishaw Hills, our approach to health and wellness is two-fold. Whilst the physical side of things is definitely important the mental and emotional aspects are vital too. According to the World Health Organisation, only 58% of retirees worldwide are in good health. This is frightening when you consider the correlation between health and quality of life.

Your health is an investment that pays dividends. It’s why we should all be making an effort to keep our minds and bodies in good condition. How can retirees make sure that they’re staying healthy? Here are five tips that can help.

Ease into retirement

Entering retirement should feel like a transition, not a plunge into the unknown.  Giving up your day job is quite an adjustment. If possible, try to slowly decrease your workload to a few days a week until you fully retire. This will assist you to find new hobbies and things to do on those days off. That way, you can continue these things once you are no longer working at all.

Find a few forms of exercise that you enjoy

The benefits of daily exercise can never be overstated. By getting moving every day, you can enjoy:

• More stable blood sugar and blood pressure
• Weight control
• Better balance and flexibility
• Improved wound healing
• Alleviate depression

Some studies even suggest that exercise slows the aging process and prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease too. You don’t even have to exercise for hours on end, all you need is 30 minutes of daily movement.

There are so many ways to stay active, especially if you live in a place like Scottburgh that has fantastic weather all year round. Looking for some low-impact forms of exercise? Why not try some of the following:

• Walking
• Cycling
• Gardening
• Zumba
• Pilates
• Yoga

At Renishaw Hills, our nature trails are great for those who want to take a stroll or ride in the sunshine. We also offer exercise classes on site for our residents.

Focus on your mind

Your mind needs exercise as much as your muscles do. It’s why you should stay social and engage in activities that stimulate you mentally. These include:

– Crosswords

– Puzzles

– Reading

– DIY projects

– Crafts

– Volunteer work

Through these activities, everyone can stay mentally alert during their golden years.

Keep your routine

Just because you no longer head to work doesn’t mean that a little routine won’t do you good. We’re not saying that you should set an alarm. Instead, we suggest planning your days and setting aside time to achieve the things that you’d like to get done. From gardening to daily exercise, cooking and visits with friends, a good routine is the key to great overall health.

Get involved

The emotions that accompany retiring can often make one feel as if they’ve lost their sense of purpose. This is why we suggest giving your time and talents to causes that need them most. Why not share your expertise by volunteering with a deserving charity? At Renishaw Hills, we give our residents several chances to give something back. One example is Projects With A Purpose. This group was started by our residents and allows everyone the opportunity to make a difference.

For more on our eco-conscious estate that combines the best of quality, value and affordability, please contact us today on sales@renishawhills.co.za