Great Reads to Savor the Last Days of Summer
It’s hard to believe the dog days of summer are here in all their smoldering glory. Stores are already packed to the gills with school supplies, and I’m suddenly finding myself feeling scholarly and excited about the cooler days ahead where curling up with a cup of tea, and a book is a life. I have to say though the only thing better than that is reading beachside under a colorful umbrella, listening to the sound of crashing waves. The wonderful thing about diving into a good book is being transported to a different world, learning something new, and improving vocabulary skills. In a society of hashtags, and abbreviations it’s refreshing to read a complete sentence, anyone with me on that?
With options such as the electronic Kindle, and Nook readers, you don’t have to sit on the library waiting list for the latest best-seller, and these innovations let you adjust the font size, and lighting, although there is something lovely about turning the pages of a book as well. Let’s all experience the stress-reducing benefits of reading with this sampling of trending books to beat the summer heat.
Planning for Retirement in your 50s
Retirement seems miles away when you are in your 30s and 40s. However, it comes upon you faster than you think. Most people do not plan for retirement. They will also tell you that they regret not doing so. So, if you haven’t started planning for retirement yet, here are a few things you can do when planning for retirement in your 50s.
Retirement Projections
Using a retirement calculator, you can project how much you will have once retired, depending on your savings and investments at the current period. There are a few online retirement calculators that provide you a broad overview. Keep in mind; most of these calculators are not 100% accurate. If you need accurate figures, you should seek the assistance of a competent retirement planner.
Coloring Books Aren’t Just For Kids
Earlier this year I was perusing my local craft store feeling nostalgic as I looked at the rows of vibrant colored pencils, and crayons remembering how exciting it was to open a new box with a coloring book in hand. Then I spotted them. Coloring books for grown-ups? Not that I needed permission to go nuts perfecting my coloring skills, but somehow knowing they made these things for adults intrigued me. I suddenly found myself at the checkout with four books, a box of colored pencils, and some glitter markers that may have landed in my basket because I couldn’t help myself. The combination of creating art whilst sipping a matcha latte was the very definition of bliss. Would I recommend it to reduce stress? Absolutely.
Things to Look for When House Hunting
Are you hunting for a new/old home now that you are retired? If you are, there are a few things you should know so that you don’t make any mistakes. A home is a huge investment, so, you really don’t want to make the wrong choice. Here is a little advice that will help you make a wise choice.
Yoga Exercises for Seniors
Yoga is a form of exercise suitable for adults of all ages. It is extremely beneficial for combating fatigue, stress, and pain. Yoga exercises for seniors help with core strength and balance minimizing fall-related injuries. Yoga also helps alleviate various health issues and help seniors feel young and vital. Although you may not be able to do some of the various yoga poses, here are some that can improve your wellbeing and quality of life.
How Breaking a Sweat Could Save Your Life
Your show is coming back on in thirty seconds, you work a desk job, or there’s no time to hit the gym. Sound familiar? Add these commonalities together and you have a recipe for an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, and higher mortality rate. Yikes right? Getting your heart thumping as a middle-aged adult is proving to be a lifesaving move not to be taken lightly.
Exercise is more than a battle of the bulge, and according to experts, the lack of is being linked to early death right up there with cigarettes, and alcoholism. In a publication of the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology, a study performed at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden followed a group of 792 middle-aged men from 1967-2012. Participants performed an exercise test that pushed them to their max and was tested for aerobic capacity every ten years to measure their level of oxygen uptake. Those with increased aerobic capacity over this time period had a 21% lower risk of mortality according to study findings.
Retirement with a Tropical Twist
With summer’s end on the horizon, and cooler weather evoking thoughts of waving palms, and warm sand, escaping to the tropics becomes the ultimate daydream. If you’ve ever taken an island holiday, I’m willing to bet you’ve contemplated boycotting your return flight, and becoming a permanent beach dweller. Spending your retirement years lounging in a hammock, in an exotic paradise can be more than just a vacation, what if you could make it home? So let’s pack our flip flops to discover four island destinations perfect for snowbirds, and retirees.
Caye Caulker, Belize
Surrounded by aquamarine waters west of the Belize Barrier Reef, this five-mile-long island is rich in wildlife, water recreation, and shoes are discouraged! Empty nesters and retirees will find shopping, dining, and an affordable lifestyle. Healthy living is a given considering you’ll make any excuse to soak in the outdoors. According to International Living, real estate is budget-friendly with home prices as low as $50K.
The Importance of Drinking Water for Seniors
Water is an all-important component in our lives. Drinking water is vital to our health and lack of it for more than 24 hours becomes a life-threatening situation. 2/3 of the body consists of water and various tissues and organs in the body are made up of water. As we age, there is a shift in our need for water and thirst for water. For example, you would notice that the less water you drink the less thirsty you are. This can lead to dehydration and serious health complications. If you are a senior, you should know water is essential for you and strive to consume it, even without a thirst cue coming from the body.
