Your health: Instead of getting old

Ok, I cannot promise to stop the clock. You will age.

Today's list isn't meant to make 40 the new 30 or make fine lines and wrinkles dissappear forever. There are many articles and gimmicks out there to help you with that. Instead we'll focus on how to make sure you are making the most of whatever age you are.

Putting this list together has been especially good for me. I am in my 40's. My children are leaving the nest to go off to college and beyond. My marriage is a little removed from the puppy love stage. My health, although good, isn't perfect. I started feeling old. I'm not sure if it was the first hot flash or the realization that I am closer to having grandchildren than bearing my own. My husband noticed it. My brother noticed it. I was thinking "old woman" when I should be enjoying the freedom that comes with independant children and a secure relationship.

Since this list is so personal, I do hope you will add your ideas in the comment section. As always, I'll take the best addition and replace one of my own.

1. Take a vitamin
This is something I have never done. My research showed very clearly that if you are eating a typical American diet, you need to. It should be gender specific and come in a capsule form. Tablets don't dissolve as quickly so more of the good stuff gets wasted.
2. Limit calories
Most of us get many more calories than we need. When you're young, it's easier to get away with food splurging. As we age, our metabolism slows. Ask your doctor what your target calorie intake should be and stay within that range every day.
3. Add fruits and vegetables
I have a feelig you've heard this one. I add it only to highlight the age-fighting properties in many of these foods. Here's an easy tip: the deeper the color, the better the food. Dark green kale is healthier than iceberg lettuce.
4. Move
30 minutes every day. No exceptions! You can break it up into ten minute increments if you cannot find the time.
5. Stop complaining
I was starting to sound like the stereotypical Yiddish grandmother. Focus on what you can do (and enjoy yourself).
6. Spend time with children
For those of you with youngsters, you've got it made. Those of us without youngsters in the house need to play more and work less. Kids make that happen. Bonus: it probably covers # 4 as well.
7. Sleep 8 hours
This one doesn't happen for me as much as I'd like. My body wakes me up after about 6 hours most days. Everything I read on aging gracefully mentioned sleep so take the time to get some. Women in the U.S. get far less than our European counterparts.
8. Buy the ointments
I always thought the anti-aging products were a gimmick. Preparing for this list, I did some research on skin care. A pattern emerged quickly. Stay out of the sun, use sunblock, and get some moisturizer. Another helpful hint, expensive isn't always better. Paula Begoun's "Don't go to the make-up counter without this" is a great resource on what to buy.
9. Phone a friend
I'm not sure why but statistically we have fewer friends as we age. No matter the reason, research suggests you have at least 5 close relationships (family doesn't count for this one). If you're a facebook and tweeter, you need 3 times more relationships because these types tend to be personal.
10. Fall in love (again)
You can imagine why I liked this one. Nothing makes a person feel younger than being in love. I am not recommending going after your neighbor's spouse here. Instead make it a goal to re-establish the closeness you had with your partner when you were dating. Take a vacation from everyday marriage and spend a long weekend nesteld together and carefree.