Age is just a number, or so they say. But for us boomers, sometimes we might feel like we’re wearing our age on our sleeves.

The good news is that psychology has some insights to share with us. Little tweaks to our daily habits can help us project a more youthful aura, regardless of the number of candles on our birthday cake.

In this article, I’m going to share seven easy-to-implement changes that can help us boomers tap into our inner youth. So, ready to turn back the clock? Let’s dive in.

1) Embrace learning

We’re never too old to learn something new.

In fact, psychologist Carol Dweck, famous for her work on “growth mindset,” once said, “In a growth mindset, challenges are exciting rather than threatening. So rather than thinking, ‘Oh, I’m going to reveal my weaknesses,’ you say, ‘Wow, here’s a chance to grow.’”

That’s a mindset that’s not just for the young. It’s for all of us, boomers included.

A major part of giving off a more youthful aura is showing an openness to learning and growing. It’s about embracing the unknown and not being afraid of making mistakes along the way.

So take up a new hobby. Learn a new language. Start using that tech gadget you received last Christmas. Whatever it is that sparks your curiosity, go for it!

The goal isn’t to become an expert overnight. Rather, it’s about showing a youthful spirit of curiosity and willingness to learn.

And who knows? You might find that you enjoy these new challenges more than you expected.

2) Stay physically active

We’ve all heard it before – exercise keeps you young. But let me tell you, this isn’t just some cliché; I’ve experienced its truth firsthand.

A couple of years back, I started noticing that my energy levels were dropping. I’d feel tired just going up a flight of stairs. I knew something had to change, so I took up swimming.

At first, it was tough. My body wasn’t used to the strain, but with time, things got easier. Now, I swim thrice a week, and let me tell you – I’ve never felt better!

The famous psychologist William James once said, “The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.” And for me, choosing to focus on my well-being and staying active has made all the difference.

So, my fellow boomers – lace up those sneakers, hit the gym or take a walk in the park. By making physical activity a part of your routine, you are not just boosting your health but also radiating a more youthful aura.

3) Practice mindfulness

Are you truly present in the moment?

We live in a fast-paced world, and it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But here’s the thing – constantly dwelling on the past or worrying about the future can add years to our mental age.

I’ll be honest. It’s not always easy to stay present. Our minds often wander, dwelling on past regrets or future anxieties. But practicing mindfulness can go a long way in keeping us grounded.

Mindfulness brings us back to that process, back to the now. It reminds us to appreciate what we have right before us.

Whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few moments each day to focus on your breathing, mindfulness can help you shed that mental stress and radiate a more youthful aura. Remember, youth isn’t just about looking young; it’s about feeling young at heart too.

4) Maintain social connections

Humans are social creatures. We thrive on connections – and that doesn’t change as we age.

A study published in the journal “Personality and Social Psychology Review” found a strong correlation between social interaction and longevity. The researchers concluded that maintaining strong social networks can lead to a 50% increase in survival rates.

That’s a pretty significant number!

Sure, it’s easy to get caught up in our own routines as we age. But making time for friends and family, participating in social activities, or even just striking up a conversation with a stranger at the park can make a world of difference.

Maintaining these connections doesn’t just increase our lifespan – it also helps us feel younger, more vibrant. So, reach out, engage, connect. Your youthful aura will thank you for it!

5) Keep a positive outlook

Here’s something I’ve learned over the years – a youthful aura is as much about attitude as it is about physical appearance.

We all have our fair share of ups and downs. But it’s how we react to these situations that truly counts. Maintaining a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity, is a surefire way to keep that youthful spirit alive.

Having a positive outlook is about more than just seeing the glass as half full. It’s about believing in ourselves and our ability to overcome challenges.

So, the next time you find yourself in a tough situation, remember – you’ve got this! Keep your chin up and your spirit youthful. After all, age is just a mindset.

6) Embrace authenticity

You might think that acting younger is the key to giving off a more youthful aura. But there’s something to be said for being true to yourself.

Authenticity has its own magnetism. It draws people in and makes you seem comfortable in your own skin – a trait often associated with youth.

While it’s great to adopt new hobbies and stay updated with the latest trends, it’s equally important not to lose sight of who you are. Your experiences, your wisdom, your journey – these are things that make you unique.

Be genuine. Embrace the person you’ve become over the years. Just because we’re talking about a youthful aura doesn’t mean you should hide your true self. Quite the contrary, be authentically you – that’s where true youthfulness lies.

7) Laugh often

Laughter truly is the best medicine. It reduces stress, boosts mood, and let’s be honest, it’s downright contagious.

As Ruch, W., & Ekman, P. once said, “Laughter cannot be compelled; to produce it, one has to find the way to a person’s spontaneous feelings.”

So, find humor in everyday life. Surround yourself with things that make you chuckle. Because when you laugh, you’re not just brightening your own day – you’re also radiating a youthful energy that’s hard to resist.

Final reflections

As we navigate the journey of life, age becomes more than just a number. It evolves into a testament of our experiences and wisdom.

Yet, maintaining a youthful aura isn’t about denying our age or attempting to turn back time. It’s about embracing the vibrancy of life, regardless of the number on our birth certificate.

These seven steps provide an avenue for that. They’re small changes, but they can make a big difference in how we feel and how others perceive us.

As you move forward, remember that youthfulness is not a destination, but a way of living. No matter how many birthdays you’ve celebrated, your aura can remain as youthful as you choose to make it.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how old we are, but how old we feel. And with the right mindset, we can all feel forever young.