Men who stay youthful and happy in their 60s and beyond usually adopt these 8 simple habits

Farley Ledgerwood by Farley Ledgerwood | September 6, 2024, 9:57 pm

There’s something intriguing about men who seem to defy the aging process.

You know those men who are in their 60s and beyond, yet they exude youthfulness and happiness.

This isn’t some sort of magic, though. It’s often the result of simple, daily habits.

In this article, we’ll explore eight such everyday habits that these youthful, happy men tend to embrace. 

Let’s dive in. 

1) They prioritize physical activity

You knew this one was coming, right?

Physical fitness isn’t just for the young.

Men who maintain their youthfulness well into their 60s and beyond often have one thing in common – they keep moving.

Regular exercise is much more than just a habit for these men.

It’s a core part of their lifestyle.

They understand that maintaining physical fitness isn’t just about looking good.

It’s about feeling good too.

As noted by experts , exercise can boost energy, promote better sleep, and reduce the risk of a myriad of health issues.

But it’s not about becoming a gym rat or running marathons.

Simple activities like walking, swimming, or even gardening can keep them active and healthy.

2) They eat mindfully

I’ve noticed something interesting about my friend John, who’s in his early 70s yet could easily pass for a man in his 50s.

John is incredibly mindful about his diet.

He doesn’t believe in fad diets or depriving himself of the foods he loves.

Instead, he focuses on balance and moderation.

He eats a variety of foods – plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

He also indulges in his favorites like chocolate or a glass of wine occasionally. But the key is, he never goes overboard.

I remember asking him once at a dinner party how he managed to resist piling his plate high with all the delicious food on offer.

He smiled at me and said, “It’s not about denying yourself. It’s about enjoying everything in moderation.”

That simple philosophy seems to work wonders for him!

And it’s a habit anyone can adopt for a more youthful and happier life. 

3) They value social connections

This is a big one. Men who radiate youthfulness and happiness in their later years often have a robust social network. 

Research supports this, too.

A 2010 study found that individuals with strong social ties had a 50% lower risk of mortality over a given period than those with weaker ties.

These men understand the power of human connection.

They invest time in maintaining relationships with their family, friends, and community.

They regularly engage in social activities, whether it’s a weekly golf game, volunteering at a local charity, or simply catching up with friends over coffee.

This strong sense of community provides them with emotional support, enriches their lives, and makes them happier and healthier. 

4) They practice gratitude

The happiest and most youthful men in their 60s and beyond have a special habit – they practice gratitude.

Instead of focusing on what’s wrong or what they lack, they focus on what’s right and what they have.

They might keep a gratitude journal, where they jot down a few things each day that they’re thankful for.

Or, they might start their day by silently expressing gratitude for the good in their lives.

This mindset shift can have a profound impact on their well-being.

It can foster positive feelings, reduce stress, and even improve physical health.

Want to stay youthful and happy as you age?

Start counting your blessings. It’s a simple habit that can make a big difference.

5) They remain curious

Ever notice how children are always asking questions, exploring, and eager to learn?

Well, men who stay youthful often carry this same sense of curiosity into their older years.

They’re always ready to learn something new, whether that’s picking up a new hobby, reading a fascinating book, or traveling to a place they’ve never been before.

This continuous learning keeps their mind sharp and their spirit youthful.

Go ahead, pick up that guitar you’ve been meaning to learn, take that cooking class, or start planning your next big adventure.

The world is full of things to learn and explore.

6) They embrace change

Change is a part of life. The seasons change, people change, circumstances change.

Those who stay youthful and happy embrace it.

Rather than resisting or fearing change, they see it as an opportunity for growth and new experiences.

They understand that while change can sometimes be uncomfortable, it often leads to beautiful outcomes.

They’ve seen enough sunsets to know that the darkness is only temporary, and the dawn always follows.

They’ve weathered enough storms to understand that even the fiercest rain eventually gives way to a rainbow.

7) They make time for relaxation

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to forget the importance of relaxation.

But these men make relaxation a priority.

Whether it’s reading a book, going fishing, meditating, or simply sitting quietly in nature, they understand the importance of taking time out to recharge their batteries.

Relaxation isn’t a luxury for them – it’s a necessity.

They know that to stay youthful and happy, they need to give their bodies and minds the rest they deserve.

8) They nurture a positive mindset

At the heart of youthfulness and happiness, even as the years add up, is a positive mindset. 

This doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges or difficulties.

Instead, these men choose to focus on the positive aspects of every situation.

They see setbacks as opportunities for growth, not as insurmountable obstacles.

Final thoughts: It’s all about balance

The secret to staying youthful and happy in your 60s and beyond isn’t found in a miracle pill or a magical fountain of youth.

It’s woven into the fabric of our everyday lives, in the habits we choose to adopt and maintain.

Each habit we’ve discussed – from physical activity and mindful eating, to nurturing social connections and cultivating a positive mindset – is a piece of this complex puzzle.

And it’s the balance among these habits that creates the most significant impact.

Whether you’re already in your 60s or still decades away, it’s never too early or too late to start these simple habits.

After all, youthfulness isn’t just about age.

It’s about how you feel – physically, emotionally, and mentally.

So embrace these habits. Cultivate balance.

And remember, a youthful and happy life is not just a destination; it’s a journey.