When it comes to aging, it’s not just about the number of candles on your cake. It’s also about how you feel inside and out. If you want to feel alive and energised in your 60s and beyond, there are certain habits you might want to wave goodbye to.

And let’s face it, who doesn’t want to feel younger, more vibrant, and energetic as they age?

I’m here to tell you that the secret might just be in letting go of some habits that are sapping your energy and vitality.

In this article, I’m going to share 8 habits you might want to reconsider if you’re planning on feeling fabulous in your later years. So let’s dive in.

1) Skipping regular exercise

Let’s face it – as we age, our bodies might not be as nimble as they once were. It’s tempting to start skipping exercise, choosing comfort over the effort of staying active.

But here’s the thing – if you truly want to feel alive and energised even in your 60s, regular exercise is non-negotiable.

Exercise is not just about maintaining weight or looking good; it’s about keeping your body healthy and functioning at its best. It’s about keeping your joints flexible, your muscles strong, and your mind sharp.

And the best part? You don’t have to be running marathons or lifting heavy weights to reap the benefits of exercise. Even a brisk walk, a gentle yoga session, or a swim can do wonders for your overall well-being.

The key is consistency. Remember, it’s better to do a little bit each day than to overdo it once a week and then skip it entirely.

So, give your remote a break, lace up those sneakers and embrace regular exercise as part of your lifestyle. Your future self will thank you for it.

2) Neglecting your social life

We all know socialising is fun, but it’s also vital for our mental health. Studies have shown that maintaining strong social connections can help keep you mentally sharp and emotionally balanced.

As we age, it’s easy to let friendships slide, but these connections are more important than ever. They provide support, joy, and a sense of belonging.

So don’t neglect your social life. Reach out to old friends, make new ones, join clubs or groups that interest you. Trust me – your older self will be glad you did.

3) Overlooking the importance of a good night’s sleep

Sleep isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Our bodies need time to recharge, to repair cells, and to carry out important functions that keep us healthy.

Yet, one in three adults don’t get enough sleep, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s a worrying statistic considering the vital role sleep plays in our overall health.

As we age, good quality sleep becomes even more important. Lack of sleep can impact memory, concentration, and can even increase the risk of falls and accidents.

So, make sure you’re prioritizing a good night’s sleep. This might mean developing a relaxing bedtime routine, making your bedroom a tranquil sanctuary, or even seeking professional help if you’re struggling with insomnia or other sleep disorders.

Feeling alive and energised in your 60s and beyond might just start with getting a good night’s rest.

4) Consuming too much processed food

We are what we eat, as the old saying goes. Too often, we turn to processed foods for convenience without thinking about the impact they have on our bodies.

Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars and sodium. They contribute to weight gain, increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes, and can leave us feeling sluggish and drained.

On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can give us the nutrients we need to stay healthy and energetic.

So if you’re looking to feel vibrant and alive in your 60s and beyond, it might be time to reevaluate your dietary choices. Start embracing whole foods and saying goodbye to the processed ones. Your body will thank you for it.

5) Forgetting to cherish the little moments

As we journey through life, it’s easy to get caught up in grand goals and big milestones. But often, it’s the small, everyday moments that truly make life worth living.

A hearty laugh with a loved one, a quiet morning walk as the sun rises, a favorite song playing on the radio – these are the moments that bring us joy and make us feel alive.

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to cherish these little moments. They remind us to be present, to appreciate what we have, and to find joy in the ordinary.

So take some time each day to just be. To listen to the birds sing, to enjoy a cup of tea, or to watch the world go by from your window.

Life is a collection of moments. Make sure you’re not missing out on them in your quest for bigger things. They might just be what keeps you feeling alive and energised in your 60s and beyond.

6) Overworking

Overworking can lead to chronic stress, burnout, and a host of health problems including high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental health issues.

Balancing work with leisure and relaxation is crucial for maintaining energy and vitality. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to take a break, to step back, and to relax.

Work is a part of life, but it should never consume your life. So if you’re someone who’s always burning the midnight oil or working through the weekends, it might be time to reassess your priorities. Take some time off for yourself, because you deserve it.

Remember, feeling alive and energised isn’t just about physical health, it’s also about mental well-being. And finding that work-life balance is a big step towards achieving it.

Even in your 60s and beyond, you should be working to live, not living to work.

7) Ignoring mental health

Mental health is as important as physical health, yet it often doesn’t get the attention it deserves.

Stress, anxiety, and depression can all drain your energy and make you feel older than you are. As we age, it’s crucial to pay attention to our mental health and seek help when necessary.

Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or even just having a heart-to-heart conversation with a trusted friend can help manage stress levels and improve mental well-being.

Also, don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re feeling overwhelmed. There’s no shame in taking care of your mental health.

Remember, feeling alive and energised isn’t just about keeping your body fit, it’s about keeping your mind healthy too. So make mental health a priority, because you deserve to feel good inside and out.

8) Neglecting regular check-ups

In the pursuit of feeling alive and energised in your 60s and beyond, one of the most important things you can do is to keep up with regular health check-ups.

Regular check-ups can help detect health issues before they become serious. They provide an opportunity for your doctor to give you personalized advice on managing your health and reducing your risk of future problems.

So, don’t wait until you’re feeling unwell to see your doctor. Prevention is always better than cure. Make regular check-ups a part of your routine to stay on top of your health.

Final thoughts: It’s a matter of choice

The journey to feeling alive and energised in your 60s and beyond is deeply intertwined with the choices we make today.

As per a study by the Journal of Aging Research, lifestyle choices have a significant impact on our health and vitality as we age. These choices aren’t just about what we eat or how often we exercise, but also about how we manage our stress, nurture our relationships, and prioritize our mental health.

Choosing to let go of certain habits might not be easy, but it’s a decision that can lead to a more vibrant and fulfilling later life.

Whether it’s choosing to lace up those walking shoes, reaching out to an old friend, opting for a salad over fast food, or scheduling that overdue check-up, every little decision counts.

If you’re seeking more guidance on how to navigate this exciting stage of life, I’m thrilled to announce my upcoming online course, Your Retirement, Your Way: Thriving, Dreaming and Reinventing Life in Your 60s and Beyond.

In this course, you’ll not only learn the skills to coach yourself to a happier, more vibrant retirement but also discover the transformative power of regular reflection and journaling. Deepening your self-awareness and fostering growth are just as important as planning your financial future.

Investing in self-coaching isn’t just a temporary fix; it’s an enduring capability that empowers you to handle whatever life throws your way. To find out more about the course launch, sign up at The Vessel.

 As you move forward on this journey, consider the choices you’re making. Are they leading you towards a vibrant and energised future?

At the end of the day, feeling alive in your 60s and beyond might be just a few good choices away.