Most people’s retirement years are the perfect opportunity to relax, spend quality time with loved ones, and dive into meaningful hobbies. However, ageing can also be a stressful experience. We face several challenges as we age, including declining physical health, a loss of independence, financial strain, and changes in our family structure. Chronic stress is a unfortunately common problem for older adults, especially those going through significant life transitions. Knowing how to relax and unwind is one of the keys to ageing happily and healthily.
Low-impact Exercise
Exercise is one of the best activities for stress management for people of all ages. Although physical activity may seem the opposite of relaxation, exercise has long-term mental health benefits. Working out allows you to channel anxious energy in a healthy way. It also causes your brain to release stress-relieving hormones, making life’s challenges more manageable.
Socialising
Even the most introverted among us need quality time with friends and family. Socialising is an excellent way to relax and relieve stress. Sometimes, talking through stressful or frustrating situations can make you feel better. In other cases, simply connecting with people is helpful regardless of whether or not you actually speak about your stress.
Time in Nature
Spending time in nature is one of the best, but most underutilised relaxation tips. Being in nature can help you clear your mind and feel more grounded. It can even reduce the physical markers of stress, such as blood pressure and heart rate. Gardening is one great way for seniors to access nature. Even just one trip out in nature per week can help you feel calmer and relaxed overall.
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing can be a powerful relaxation strategy when feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. The technique activates your parasympathetic nervous system, which helps your body physically relax. As your body calms down, your mind also feels calmer and clearer.
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation has a wide variety of mental health benefits. You can practice mindfulness on your own, or you could use guided audio or video resources for support. The goal behind mindfulness is to be completely focused on the present moment. As thoughts float through your mind, you acknowledge them without judgment and then let them go. The meditation only needs to last for a few minutes a day for you to experience the relaxing benefits.
Art and Music
If you’re artistic, pursuing a creative hobby can be a great way to relax each day. Seniors sometimes feel bored or aimless after retirement, so finding meaningful new hobbies is essential. Painting, drawing, or making crafts can be very soothing, and you end up with a beautiful final result. Music can be an excellent creative outlet, too. If you play an instrument, take some time daily to play your favourite pieces. If not, listen to your favourite songs when you feel stressed or anxious. Many seniors are particularly drawn to the music they listened to as young adults, but any songs that relax you are worth listening to.