Gray Matters
Everyone faces the prospect of growing older. When it comes to aging, people’s primary concerns include their changing appearance and aches and pains. But perhaps even more important is mental health. Fortunately, there are ways to keep your mind sharp as you age so you can enjoy your retirement. Exercise Working out is inextricably tied to wellness in all its forms. A simple, light workout now and then not only maintains physical health, but it also boosts your mental well-being. A 5-mile walk once per week can increase brain volume and prevent mental diseases, including Alzheimer’s. It’s no wonder exercise is the go-to solution for maintaining wellness. Learn New Hobbies Do you want to reduce memory loss by 40–50 percent? Dan Buettner, a researcher and best-selling author on studies about happiness and longevity, suggests learning a new hobby. Whether you learn to knit, paint, or discover a new board game, you’ll enjoy improved mental health. Get your hands moving, and your mind will surely follow. (Note: Watching TV as a hobby doesn’t count! People who regularly watch TV may suffer up to 50 percent memory loss.)
Socialize
If you want to maintain mental health, make socializing a priority. Having an active social life increases your resistance to mental diseases and improves your mood. Furthermore, a healthy social network of friends and family (and we’re not talking Facebook here) helps give you a support system to fall back on when times get tough. Take a Break Take a step back from your everyday life and enjoy the small things. Set aside time to sit down with a good book or another activity you enjoy. While on that 5-mile walk, why not take a few moments to slow down your pace and look at the world around you? As the famous saying goes, “Stop and smell the roses.”
Zesty
ZUCCHINI ENCHILADAS
For a lighter take on enchiladas, go carb-free by swapping tortillas for zucchini!
INGREDIENTS
4 large zucchini 1 tablespoon olive oil or ghee
Roll the zucchini “tortilla” and place on baking sheet. Repeat until all zucchini and chicken is used. remaining sauce and sprinkle with cheese. Bake 20 minutes, and enjoy! 2 teaspoons chili powder 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken 2 cups shredded cheese 1 cup prepared enchilada sauce
1 large onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons cumin
DIRECTIONS 1.
Heat oven to 350 F. In a large skillet, heat oil. Add onion,
garlic, cumin, chili powder, and salt to taste. Stir to combine. Add chicken and 1 cup prepared enchilada sauce. 2. Use vegetable peeler to thinly slice zucchini. Lay out three slices, slightly overlapping, and spoon chicken mixture on top.
3. Cover the enchiladas with
(Recipe courtesy of delish.com.)
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