“There must be a goal at every stage of life! There must be a goal!” – Maggie Kuhn

Yes, you have probably set different goals at different stages in your life. Graduating from college and getting a fantastic job may have been your goals in your twenties. Then, perhaps, it was starting a family and saving for a major purchase. But as you get older, the goals may be fewer and fewer as you feel comfortable with your life and as if you’ve achieved all you set out to do.

But, as you age, one of your goals should be to slow the aging process – mentally and physically. You want your health in both of those areas to be at its peak. But how do you go about it? What do you need to do? Doing these ten things will help you slow the aging process – no matter how old you are.

• Wear Sunscreen: Everyone should be wearing sunscreen throughout the entire year (not just summer). Your skin is your largest organ, and it needs to be protected. Prevention shares a list of the best sunscreens available for every skin type – according to dermatologists.
• Stop Smoking: You know that smoking is detrimental to your health. It damages your inner organs (heart, lungs, etc.), but it also has consequences for your skin. Smoking damages the collagen and elastin, which help to keep your skin from wrinkling and sagging. 
• Eat a Healthy Diet: Diet plays a huge part in your overall wellness. When you eat a well-balanced diet, you supply your body with all of the vitamins and nutrients it needs for good health. Choose My Plate shares 10 tips that can help you build a healthy meal. 
• Exercise: It’s never too late to start exercising. And exercising has lots of benefits. It’s going to help keep your body active and able to do the things you want to do. But studies have also shown that exercise improves your immune system – which means you can stay healthier as you age. Find a form of exercise that you like and stick to it. It can be walking, Tai Chi, water aerobics, kickboxing – whatever you enjoy – and get active every day.
• Drink Water: Water is important to keep you hydrated. Because so much of your body is made up of water, it’s essential for your health. It helps to prevent fatigue, it keeps your skin looking younger, and it helps your brain function. Make sure you’re drinking enough water each day. 
• Keep Your Brain Active: An active and engaged brain will also help slow the aging process – and there are lots of ways to keep your brain engaged. Puzzles, games, learning something new, reading, writing, and listening to music are just a few ways you can do this. 
• Spend Time Outdoors: Spending time outside can also slow the aging process. Get some sunshine, enjoy some time in the park, take a walk in the woods. Do anything that gets you outdoors!
• Drink Alcohol in Moderation: Alcohol can affect your body. It can age your organs prematurely (such as your liver and kidneys). Additionally, it can cause your skin to become dry and red. Drink alcohol in moderation to help you slow the aging process.
• Get Good Sleep: Good sleep is essential for everyone – no matter what your age. The Mayo Clinic shares six tips that can help you sleep better – in case you need them.
• Schedule Regular Doctors Visits: Make sure you are having regular checkups with all of your doctors (your dentist included). Prevention is key when trying to stay healthy and regular checkups are the best way to keep you healthy.

Aging doesn’t have to be a bad thing – especially when you are doing your absolute best to slow the process. Follow these ten tips to keep you healthy – in mind, body, and spirit.