Latest news with #ComprehendtheMind
Yahoo
5 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
9 Habits To Help You Stay Youthful in Your 70s, According to a Psychologist
Is age just a number? Not necessarily. However, one psychologist shares that it's possible to enjoy the perks of aging (perhaps wisdom) while still feeling young."It's not about pretending you're young, but keeping a spirit that says, 'I'm not done discovering things,'" clarifies ., a neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind. "Youthfulness shows up in how you laugh, how you adapt and how you connect with new people or ideas."In other words, feeling young again isn't about faking it until you make it. It's about making it a habit to prioritize your health and happiness. Dr. Hafeez shares the nine essential habits for people in their Physical activity is important for people of any age, but Dr. Hafeez stresses it's crucial for people in their 70s."Exercise keeps your muscles and joints strong and your heart healthy," she you may have some mobility issues or feel slower than usual. Dr. Hafeez points out that even gentle, low-impact movement is impactful."Simple activities like walking, biking or stretching can keep you moving without overdoing it," she says. "Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement most days, whether it's a daily walk or dancing to your favorite music." What you put into your body can affect how you feel inside. "A balanced diet full of fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins helps you feel energized and keeps your body running smoothly," Dr. Hafeez recommends eating leafy greens, nuts and omega-3-rich foods like salmon to support your heart, skin and overall health. She also suggests reducing processed foods, instead focusing on eating a variety of whole foods you're coming to the "healthy diet" table in your 70s, know it's not too late. In one study, researchers split participants into two groups, one with an average age of about 59 and one with an average age of about 74. Both groups who followed a Mediterranean diet saw improved blood pressure and cholesterol numbers, and people of all ages could make changes to follow the meal plan more closely. Social health matters too. In fact, one study found that socializing is crucial for the mental health of older adults and may lower the risk of cognitive decline."Socializing is not just fun; it also keeps your mind sharp and your mood up," Dr. Hafeez says. "Spending time with family or friends can reduce feelings of loneliness and help you feel more engaged in life."She urges people in their 70s to plan regular meetups, join a club or call someone to chat to keep their social connections Life will always have stresses. However, managing it is key."Stress can take a toll on your health, so it's important to find ways to relax and stay calm," Dr. Hafeez says. "Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation or spending time in nature can help reduce stress and keep you feeling at peace."She suggests spending a few minutes daily to focus on your breathing, taking a quiet walk outside or doing both at the same Dr. Hafeez doesn't recommend taking an "I'll-sleep-when-I'm-dead" approach to catching Zzzs in life, especially as you age."Sleep is when your body and mind recharge, so getting enough rest is key to feeling youthful," she emphasizes. "Quality sleep improves mood, memory and helps you recover from the day."Research has linked quality sleep to healthy aging. The CDC suggests adults 65 and up get seven to eight hours of sleep per night. You don't need to be school-age to learn something new. Studies show it's possible and beneficial for older adults to continue learning new things and building skills."Your brain stays sharp when you continue learning," Dr. Hafeez notes. "Whether it's reading books, taking a class or picking up a new hobby, staying curious helps keep your mind active."Knitting, photography, guitar—you can choose your own adventure, and Dr. Hafeez shares that all of these activities will keep your brain engaged. The rumors are true: Water gives and sustains life. "Staying hydrated is essential for feeling good and keeping your skin looking healthy," Dr. Hafeez explains. "Dehydration can cause fatigue and dry skin, so make sure you're drinking enough water every day. Carry a water bottle with you and eat foods like cucumbers and oranges that are high in water content." Good vibes only? No, that's toxic positivity. However, finding bright spots in your day is life-giving."People who focus on the good in life tend to be healthier and live longer," Dr. Hafeez says. "Try to practice gratitude by writing down three things you're thankful for each day or focusing on the positives in your life."Related: "Age ain't nothing but a number" sounds nice, and the date on our birth certificates doesn't define us. However, age is one number that matters when it comes to tests and screenings you're eligible for, such as mammograms and colonoscopies. Regular trips to your doctor ensure you're getting all the tests you need, plus it allows your care team to flag other concerns."Consistent medical appointments enable early detection of health issues while maintaining your health progress," Dr. Hafeez says. "Early management of blood pressure and cholesterol conditions prevents them from developing into serious health problems."Related: Dr. Hafeez is begging people in their 70s to avoid sitting too long without moving. "Being inactive can lead to stiffness, poor circulation and a lack of energy," she warns. "It's important to take breaks and stretch or walk around throughout the day to keep your body flexible and your blood flowing."She suggests setting a timer to remind you to get up hourly, even if it's just for a couple of minutes."Staying active, even in small ways, will help you feel better and more energetic as you age," she explains. Up Next:Dr. Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind Physical Activity Benefits for Adults 65 or Older. CDC. Change to a healthy diet in people over 70 years old: the PREDIMED experience. European Journal of Nutrition. Daily social interactions related to daily performance on mobile cognitive tests among older adults. PLOS One. Sleep and Healthy Aging: A Systematic Review and Path Forward. Clinical Gerontology. Sleep Guidance. CDC. The Impact of Learning Multiple Real-World Skills on Cognitive Abilities and Functional Independence in Healthy Older Adults. The Journals of the Gerontology Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences.
Epoch Times
28-05-2025
- Health
- Epoch Times
The Science-Backed Writing Exercises That Improve Mental Health
Just 10 minutes of daily positive writing can reduce anxiety and boost life satisfaction—but choosing the right type of writing exercise for your personality is crucial, according to a major new research review. Scientists identified seven distinct approaches to therapeutic writing—from gratitude letters to 'three good things' journals—with some proving more effective for certain types of people than others. Based on More Than 50 Years of Studies The systematic review, recently published in the journal Unlike traditional expressive writing about trauma or stress, which can initially increase negative feelings, positive writing techniques enhanced well-being without these short-term risks. Researchers systematically searched four major databases, focusing specifically on adults who used self-guided writing exercises about positive topics. All studies included control groups and measured outcomes like happiness, optimism, anxiety levels, and physical symptoms. The 7 Most Effective Writing Interventions Researchers identified seven main types of positive writing interventions that showed measurable benefits. 1. Best Possible Self Writing: Participants imagined and wrote about their ideal future self, by describing goals and dreams in detail. 2. Gratitude Letters: Letters of appreciation were written to people who have made a positive impact, whether delivered or not. 3. Positive Experience Journaling: This involved writing about intensely positive experiences, happy moments, or any topic that encouraged them to reflect upon a positive memory or aspect of life. 4. Benefit Finding: Participants were encouraged to write about the benefits or positives following a stressful or upsetting experience. 5. Three Good Things: Participants wrote three good things that happened at the end of each day. 6. Satisfaction Processes: Individuals wrote about experiences that brought them satisfaction and evaluated their sense of fulfillment, contentment, or happiness in various aspects of life. The focus is to write on aspects such as pleasure, enjoyment, and sense of involvement. 7. Resource Diary: This involved writing about inter- and intra-personal resources, which are assets or strengths that people use to cope with challenges, maintain well-being, and achieve personal growth. While the review found these techniques most consistently improved feelings of happiness, life satisfaction, and gratitude, researchers noted that their effects on anxiety and depression varied depending on individual differences and the type of writing intervention used. 'People who tend to reflect on their thoughts and feelings may find positive writing exercises easier,' Dr. Sanam Hafeez, neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind in New York, and not associated with the review, told The Epoch Times. 'Writing down feelings can be instinctive to certain people but creates uncertainty or writer's block for others.' The research revealed that people with lower emotional expression or social inhibition experienced greater benefits from certain interventions. Those who 'can handle their emotions well' might stay focused on good things without being stuck on bad memories, according to Hafeez. Related Stories 4/24/2025 12/29/2023 However, people struggling with trauma or chronic stress may need more structured guidance. 'Every individual requires tailored exercises that match their specific needs,' she emphasizes. Easier for Some People Despite the promising findings, the researchers emphasized that many studies they looked at had methodological weaknesses, such as not including all participants in the analysis or a lack of rigorous controls. They also called for future research to adopt more rigorous methods, to measure both health and wellbeing outcomes, and to examine how personal differences could impact effectiveness. Dr. Ritu Goel, a board-certified integrative psychiatrist at MindClaire in Los Angeles, sees positive writing as an effective therapeutic intervention for various conditions. 'It can be helpful for individuals struggling with social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, depression, relationship issues, cognitive distortions, and autism spectrum disorders,' she told The Epoch Times. The intervention works by helping people process emotions, reduce stress, and gain perspective on challenging experiences—all while building emotional resilience over time. For those interested in trying positive writing, Goel recommends beginning with a small, consistent journaling routine, with just 10 minutes daily being sufficient. There is no right or wrong way to proceed, and 'no need to worry about grammar.' 'Express any thoughts or emotions you're experiencing—positive, negative, or neutral,' she noted. 'Over time, you'll notice emotional patterns, recognize unhelpful thoughts, and learn to challenge them with more positive and constructive thinking.' She recommends focusing on positive experiences, gratitude, or envisioning your best future self, but cautions against expecting immediate results. 'It's about gradually building emotional well-being rather than achieving immediate transformation.'
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Some Daters Use 'Floodlighting' To Fast-Track Emotional Intimacy. Here's Why You Shouldn't.
You're on a first date at a cozy restaurant and, for once, it's actually not awkward. You're laughing at each other's jokes; you're sharing an app; you're feeling super comfortable the more you chat. It's all fun and flirtation until your date mentions a childhood memory of theirs, which triggers a painful memory for you. Because the date is going so well and you feel at ease, you think, "What's the worst that could happen if I share this traumatic event?" Then, the worst *does* happen: Their body language shifts, and an awkward silence ensues—they become obviously uncomfortable. You don't know what you just did, but you know it wasn't good. Turns out, there's a term for sharing too much too soon: "floodlighting." Coined by professor and author of The Power of Vulnerability: Teachings of Authenticity, Connections and Courage Brené Brown, it's basically when someone overshares prematurely in a relationship, whether knowingly or not, to bypass the time and energy needed to develop actual emotional intimacy. You can think of floodlighting as the love child of two other toxic dating trends: trauma dumping (word-vomiting vulnerability on an unsuspecting audience) and love bombing (bestowing lavish gifts and grand gestures upon a new love interest so they'll quickly fall for you). When someone floodlights another person, it can seem like they're simply being vulnerable. And hey, what's wrong with that? Well, 'unlike genuine vulnerability, which unfolds gradually through time, emotional floodlighting resembles purpose-driven emotional oversharing,' says Sanam Hafeez, PsyD, neuropsychologist and founder of Comprehend the Mind, a New York's leader in neuropsychological assessments. That drive, she explains, can be as innocent as a trauma response, such as anxiety, or as nefarious as emotional manipulation. It's natural to want to vet the emotional 'agility' of someone you're dating, especially if you're looking for a long-term partner whom you can lean on during life's ups and downs. But floodlighting tries to do this by taking the 2 Fast 2 Furious route. 'The person who discloses too much information could be testing the other person to see if they can handle some of the different traumas or different experiences they've experienced—almost to an extent of manipulation—that leads to control over the conversation,' says Kayanan. Whether they're using that control to dominate the conversation or judge how well you handle their emotions, the floodlighting forces you, the listener, to take on the therapist role for a person you have just met. Plus, it can be emotionally invasive to try to force a connection with someone who may not be equipped to handle certain traumatic information—or at least, not right away. 'The person who is [floodlighting] may be putting the other in the position of feeling as if they need to respond, even though they may not be ready to,' says Marisa T. Cohen, PhD, LMFT, a relationship scientist, sex therapist, and the founder of Embracing Change Marriage and Family Therapy. 'Intimacy requires reciprocity, and vulnerability takes time.' But not all floodlighters act with ulterior motives. In fact, many people might not even know they're doing anything wrong. '[The floodlighter] may be engaging in this form of communication as they feel a sense of security in the relationship and may genuinely want to establish a deep connection with the other person,' says Cohen. 'Their intention may just be, 'I feel safe with you. I want to connect with you by sharing this important information about me and my past.'' In the digital age, it's become commonplace to overshare online for an audience of hundreds or thousands of followers. Because these posts tend to garner validation and sympathy in the reply section, why wouldn't you expect the same response in real life? But you're not privy to the reactions of all your followers—and it's likely that many people think that some information would be best kept between you and a therapist. Floodlighting can also be an anxiety response, says Kayanan, rooted in the fear of how they'll be perceived by their date. A floodlighter might use this tactic to put forth a sympathetic narrative and reel the other person in quickly because they're nervous their date will find out difficult or dubious information about them later. It's the performative, rather than substantive, nature of these actions, says Kayanan, that signals the relationship might be taking a wrong turn. It could also be a trauma response, says Hafeez, because 'casual conversations often unexpectedly lead back to your previous emotional wounds and life difficulties.' For example, your date may bring up their favorite vacation memory, which triggers your PTSD, and you bring up a traumatic event that prevented you from traveling or a negative memory you have associated with the place your date visited. Oversharing becomes an unconscious defense mechanism to soothe negative feelings and maintain nervous system balance, she explains. Essentially, floodlighting is a way to gain control over your emotions. Floodlighting might also be a way to protect yourself from genuine emotional intimacy, according to Brené Brown, which can often happen when you've felt dismissed in the past or are otherwise responding to a false belief about yourself. Say your last partner dumped you, and you now have a fear of abandonment. If you share that deep fear early on, and your date gets overwhelmed and decides not to pursue things further, you're subconsciously confirming your own internal bias. This false sense of security can skew the emotional connection over time, says Hafeez, because, rather than creating an emotional connection with your date, you're seeking to validate a subconscious fear about yourself. Whether done intentionally or not, floodlighting can lead to dating disaster—that is, until now. Ahead, relationship experts share how to spot the signs of floodlighting, what to do if you get get caught in the floodlights, and healthy alternatives to toxic over-sharing. When you have chemistry with someone, it can be easy to get swept away with sharing your interests, values, and life goals. Naturally, you'd want to test the emotional waters—but that's where it can get rough. For example, your date casually mentions their family dynamics, but that's a touchy subject for you, due to an estranged relationship. In an effort to connect, you might feel the urge to share your whole family history, but unloading that much personal information on your date may make them feel emotionally drained before they're even emotionally invested. Or, they may be obligated to share their own experiences to help you feel more comfortable, not necessarily because they genuinely feel an emotional connection. It's not always easy to tell when someone is getting uncomfortable, especially if they're trying to avoid making you feel uncomfortable, but there tend to be some specific indications of unease. For example, if they're turning their body away from you, avoiding eye contact, fidgeting, or changing the subject, those are all likely signs that they're not feeling up for the current topic. If you ignore these cues, then you're probably crossing the line from sharing into floodlighting. Even if you don't feel like you've overstepped, it's a good idea to switch up the direction of the conversation. Sharing why the most recent relationship didn't work out can be a topical date convo, but it should be the length of an elevator pitch—about 30 seconds—not a long, drawn-out explanation detailing every way your ex wronged you. Not only will divulging all this emotional trauma early on overwhelm the other person, but you may also (inadvertently or intentionally) put pressure on them to exceed your expectations or "save" you from your past in the process, Hafeez says. Remember, you barely know this person, so it's not your date's responsibility to make up for someone else's bad behavior or take on the role of a therapist and help you process years of pain. (FYI: This isn't a long-term partner's job, either—it is literally only the job of licensed mental healthcare professional!) Typically, the floodlighter doesn't give the other person room to respond and redirect the conversation to a lighter topic, or they pressure them to open up to the same degree that they just did, says Hafeez. Either way, 'their behavior suggests they want to accelerate the relationship beyond what you find comfortable,' she explains. This can be a nefarious form of floodlighting because it sends a clear signal that they are prioritizing what they want to get out of the convo, even if means crossing another person's boundaries (which probably took some work and courage to establish in the first place!). This can set the stage for an unhealthy relationship dynamic before it even gets a chance to blossom. When a casual convo starts to feel too heavy, you have every right to redirect toward a lighter topic—and you can do so without seeming insensitive. Use 'I' language, such as 'I understand this topic has deeply affected you, but I feel uncomfortable having this conversation right now. Could we revisit it another time?' By addressing what both parties may be feeling in that moment, you're effectively creating distance from the heavy conversation, as well as establishing a clear boundary, says Kayanan. But you're also not shutting down your date full-stop—the door is still open to resume this conversation at a later point when you have naturally built up the emotional intimacy necessary to support this person. Okay but... what if you realize your long-term partner has been floodlighting you for some time? 'Initially, their emotional sharing seemed to indicate a close connection, yet eventually, it led to an unequal relationship where your needs became neglected,' says Hafeez. Now that you're no longer blinded by the floodlight, it's time to speak up, says Cohen, and you can use the same 'I' statement tactic as above. Why it works: By keeping the focus on your feelings, rather than assigning blame, 'this can point out the behavior and highlight why it is making you uncomfortable,' says Cohen. Once your partner understands where you're coming from, you can start setting new boundaries with them so don't feel emotionally drained. 'Therapy—individually or together—can also help,' says Hafeez. 'Discovering floodlighting means you're progressing to create a balanced and healthy relationship.' That's the best case scenario, but there is also the possibility that your partner is unwilling to accept your new boundaries or continues to ignore them. 'Now that you're seeing the pattern, it's okay to step back and ask: Is emotional safety and support present in this relationship for me?' says Hafeez. Only you can decide how much you're willing to look past, however, if you constantly feel unheard or as if your emotional needs don't matter, it could be time to end the relationship. The most obvious—and simplest—alternative to floodlighting is emotional pacing, a.k.a. gradually disclosing information as time goes on, says Kayanan. 'When you're talking with a person, you display or disclose a small amount of information at a time and you gauge the person's reaction,' she explains. Think of it like dropping emotional breadcrumbs that lead the other person to want to learn more about you (not to be confused with breadcrumbing, yet another toxic dating trend). Maybe they ask follow-up questions that allow you to fill in the gaps over time, Kayanan says. That can help ensure each convo is more of a give and take than a dump and deal with it. Another option: Instead of rushing full steam ahead into sensitive topics, you can check in with your date to see how deep they're comfortable getting with a new person, says Cohen. Say something like, 'That reminds of something pretty heavy I experienced, but I'm not sure we're there yet.' This way, you're acknowledging that you have more to share while giving the other person an opportunity to carry on the conversation or put a pin in it. To borrow a bit of dating wisdom from William Shakespeare: 'The course of true love never did run smooth," so if you want a lasting relationship, take the scenic route, not a shortcut to emotional intimacy. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Epoch Times
16-05-2025
- Health
- Epoch Times
Mindfulness Therapy Significantly Improves Treatment-Resistant Depression: Study
Mindfulness-based therapy offers significant relief for patients who remain depressed after failing to respond to conventional treatments, according to a new clinical trial. The study found that remote mindfulness sessions improved depression symptoms, potentially offering new hope to hundreds of thousands of patients currently considered at the 'end of the road' for psychological treatment options. Measurable Benefits Comparable to Medication The MBCT combines meditation and mindfulness practices, such as self-compassion, with CBT, which helps individuals change negative thought patterns. The trial involved more than 200 patients across the UK who had already received talk therapy and anti-depressants but still struggled with depression. Participants were divided into two groups. The intervention group received MBCT sessions in addition to standard treatment. These sessions focused on developing mindfulness skills and managing difficult emotions. The other group continued with their usual care, which included a combination of antidepressants and talk therapy. Six months later, those who received MBCT showed greater improvements in their depression scores than those receiving standard care. Related Stories 5/5/2025 11/28/2014 The group that received MBCT plus usual treatment had depression scores that were about 2.5 points lower on average on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, a widely used screening tool for depression. Remote delivery of MBCT can be 'really effective,' especially for people who might not be able to attend in-person sessions due to location, time, or mental health struggles, Dr. Sanam Hafeez, neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind in New York, who was not involved in the study, told The Epoch Times. 'Being able to join from home could actually help some people feel more comfortable opening up,' she said. If the sessions are structured well and the group is engaged, the impact could be just as strong.' Why MBCT Works for Persistent Depression MBCT is particularly helpful for people with recurrent or persistent depression, especially if they still have symptoms after standard treatment, Erik Larson, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, owner of Larson Mental Health, and not involved in the study, told The Epoch Times. It was originally developed to prevent relapse in those with multiple episodes of depression, because it teaches people how to relate differently to negative thoughts and emotions instead of trying to get rid of them. While MBCT works best for those who ruminate or feel overwhelmed by stress, experts caution it requires emotional stability and consistent practice, making it unsuitable for patients in acute crisis or with psychotic symptoms. '[MBCT] helps people to recognize negative, self-critical thoughts as thoughts, rather than as facts and so helps to lessen their emotional impact,' Hafeez said MBCT could be combined with other treatments. 'A lot of people already take medication, and this could give them extra support,' she said. 'It doesn't replace therapy like CBT but adds another layer. Some might even find it helps them rely less on medication over time.' Treatment-resistant depression Mary Ryan, a patient adviser and co-author who has worked with the research team from the start, emphasized in a She said people have often been told that they've reached the 'end of the road' for psychological treatment, and there are no other options for them. 'The findings of this trial are hugely important because we're telling this group of people that they still matter—that there's something else we can try that may work for them,' she stated.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
This Is the Best 'Slow Living' Hobby for Women Over 50, Psychologists Say
Grind culture tells us we "should" always be on, and mobile phones have made that a cinch. Your work email is in the palm of your hand. Ditto for messaging apps that make seeing a last-minute, after-hours request from your boss as easy as swiping, tapping and stressing. Enter a counter-culture that Gen-Z and women over 50 are embracing: it's called slow living."Slow living encourages slowing down, doing less and experiencing life based on your values," says Dr. Jan Miller, Ph.D., a Georgia-based licensed psychologist with Thriveworks. "This approach eschews productivity culture."Sounds dreamy, right? Developing certain habits and hobbies can help you inch closer to making slow-living a reality. Psychologists share their favorite slow-living hobby for women over 50—plus, a few more just in case that one doesn't resonate with you—and tips for getting This Just Twice a Week May Help Prevent Dementia, According to Study Slow living is a lifestyle built around intention and leaning into quality instead of quantity. "This lifestyle in the moment and discovering happiness through simple experiences like family time or nature connection," says , a neuropsychologist and the director of Comprehend the Mind. "It emphasizes slowing down and being present in the moment."One psychologist likens the pace of life to music."The pace of our world has a staccato rhythm to it," shares , a psychologist with Veritas Psychology Partners. "We live and work in short bursts punctuated by a flurry of activity, often detached from other people, and the next activity often has nothing to do with the first. It begins to have a feel of dread, not unlike the opening notes of Beethoven's 5th symphony—da da da daah."Dr. MacBride notes that the intention, mindfulness and connectedness involved in slow living give you the opposite feeling, improving your well-being in the Anyone can benefit from slow living, but psychologists share it may be particularly attractive to women 50+, and they're happy about that. "The slow-living lifestyle benefits women over 50 by helping them maintain a healthier balance," Dr. Hafeez explains. "Women in their 50s may be facing life transitions such as empty nests or retirement, and slow living helps them adapt to these changes gracefully. By participating in joyful activities and focusing on the present moment, women can improve their mental health and lower their stress levels."Related: The key word is "lower." Dr. MacBride reports it's not possible to eliminate stress, but reducing it to a healthy baseline can improve a person's physical and mental well-being. Rejecting a culture that requires you to be always on and opting for slow living instead is useful, especially as a person gets older and becomes more at risk for chronic physical health concerns."We know that when the body is constantly battling stress, we are more likely to become ill and take longer to recover from illness and injury," she The best slow living hobby for women 50+? It's walking. "I love this hobby for women who are 50+ for a few reasons," Dr. Hafeez says. "First, it's so simple and easy. You don't have to 'prepare' for anything—instead, you just simply go out and walk. It's also a great way to get in your exercise. It's extremely important to stay active later on in life, and walking is one of the best forms of exercise there is."That said, you don't have to treat every walk like a brisk one. Slow, mindful steps can also significantly impact your overall well-being. "Mindful walks allow us to slow down and use our senses to be aware of the nature around us," Dr. Miller says. "Numerous studies have shown our mental and physical health benefits from being in nature."Not feeling it? That's OK."Certainly, [women 50+] would benefit from choosing the hobbies that work best for them, whether this is something they used to do but stopped or a new hobby they have always wanted to try," Dr. Miller This Basic Skill Every Day Could Prevent Cognitive Decline This one is actually Dr. MacBride's personal favorite slow living hobby for women 50+. "I love the idea of 'if you have made it, you can eat it,'" Dr. MacBride explains. "I love seeing women over 50 embrace scratch cooking and baking because, for the first time, they may be slowing down enough to make the time for themselves."However, making time for yourself can involve others, especially with cooking. Dr. MacBride says women may cook with a partner or children or pass along a special recipe to a grandchild, helping to ward off loneliness. She has a few more servings of goodness for this hobby."When we start to cook and eat in this way, it can be more budget-friendly, helping these women feel a bit more in control of finances as they think about retirement," Dr. MacBride says. "It is a perfect idea for women as they enter menopause and find that weight, shape and energy changes. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn what their changing bodies need for nutrition." Dr. MacBride suggests giving pottery a spin if you're you enjoy art. It can connect you to yourself, nature and others."Using a wheel to make pottery requires you to be in the moment and pay attention to your body relative to the clay, literally an earthly material," she explains. "When you are done, consider giving your creations away to the people you love. They will love to see what you've been up to and won't mind if it's a little bottom-heavy." This slow living hobby is another one that lets you tap into your creative side while practicing mindfulness."It teaches you to pause and admire your surroundings," Dr. Hafeez raves. "You can cultivate mindfulness through photography by paying attention to details that you would typically overlook. You don't even necessarily have to have a traditional camera. A smartphone would work just as well." If walking isn't your jam, archery serves as another way to get gentle movement. Never tried it? Even better."Picking up a bow and arrows for the first time can give women a unique opportunity, and the 'newness' of this can help them really tune into themselves," Dr. MacBride says. "Archery requires breathwork, stillness and being grounded to the moment. Enjoy the 'thwip' of the release and the 'thunk' of the arrow meeting its target." "Puzzles engage the mind and can help create new neural networks, which is important as we age," Dr. Miller points puzzles are more than a potential piece to improving cognitive Hafeez loves the satisfaction women 50+ can gain from finishing each challenge and boasts that they provide entertainment and Trying to go big or go home is tempting, but that's (mercifully) not the vibe of slow living."Begin with a hobby that doesn't require a large time or financial commitment," Dr. Hafeez suggests. "A simple, low-pressure activity will help you ease into it without feeling overwhelmed." Whether you're learning a new skill or brushing the dust off an old hobby, don't expect to be a pro—at least not right away."Allow yourself to learn and grow at your own pace," Dr. Hafeez advises. Dr. MacBride stresses that failures are events, not people. "Slow living is about taking the pressure off, not putting it on," Dr. MacBride says. "These slow living ideas aren't supposed to complicate your life. It's supposed to be life-enhancing. So, if something doesn't turn out like you want, give yourself the grace to try again."Dr. Hafeez echoes these sentiments."It's normal to make mistakes or struggle in the beginning," Dr. Hafeez shares. "Don't be too hard on yourself." Empty-nesting and outliving close family and friends can put women over 50 at a higher risk of feeling isolated. Hobbies can provide a lifeline."Create a community around your new hobby," suggests Dr. MacBride. "Feed others, gift them with your creations or take a class. Using a new hobby as a way to meet and connect with others is at the core of slow living. Get out of the office and into your life." Up Next:Dr. Jan Miller, Ph.D., a Georgia-based licensed psychologist with Thriveworks Dr. Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a neuropsychologist and the director of Comprehend the Mind Dr. Gayle MacBride, Ph.D., LP, a psychologist with Veritas Psychology Partners Nature-based interventions for physical health conditions: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Environmental Research.
