Perfect Imperfections: 10 Healthy Signs Of Aging We Think Are Bad & 10 Ways To Embrace It
Perfect Imperfections: 10 Healthy Signs Of Aging We Think Are Bad & 10 Ways To Embrace It
Aging Isn't a Bad Thing
We're not here to tell you that aging isn't tough. Some parts of aging stink, but you know what makes it worse? Society's pressure to endure the impossible task of staying young. There are some concerning signs to look out for, but many of these so-called "imperfections" are perfectly normal. Let this list encourage you to embrace your age and remind you how far your body has taken you.
1. Wrinkles
There are a billion anti-aging creams on the market, not to mention cosmetic surgeries telling us to hold on to our youthful skin. (Okay, we might have made that number up, but there's a lot). We're obsessed with keeping our young appearance instead of celebrating that we've lived so long. Our creasing skin is living proof!
2. Age Spots
Like wrinkles, age spots are just another sign of skin that’s had a life well-lived. Creams and ointments make you think your dark spots are ugly and unwanted, but why do we think that way? Age spots are unavoidable but they’re completely normal and harmless.
3. Grey Hair
Society has made graying hair more of an issue for women than men, but frankly, it shouldn't be an issue at all. We're told we don't look after ourselves when we let our hair be natural, but more often, the contrary is true. Ironically, constantly dyeing your hair is more harmful to your locks than letting it whiten naturally.
4. Weight Gain
You're not fat and lazy; your body won't let you run as fast as you used to, and your metabolism has slowed down without your permission. Naturally, you're going to gain weight easier and quicker without any lifestyle changes. If you're at a healthy weight, having a little more pudge than you're used to isn't a problem.
5. Skin Tags
Skin tags are another perfect skin imperfection. A harmless skin tag is just a little bump on our aging skin--it shouldn't be a bump in our lives. If you wear sun protection and check with a doctor when you're concerned about changes, skin tags are cool.
6. Sensitive Teeth
Your pearly whites might not seem so bright anymore, but your smile can still shine. You've had many years of drinking coffee or tea and eating citrus fruits; your teeth are bound to discolor over time. They'll become more sensitive and more vulnerable to decay, but there are aids for that.
National Cancer Institute on Unsplash
7. Poor Eyesight
Your eyes have seen a lot over time. When you're older, your vision may become cloudy, harder to focus, or more sensitive to glare. It's normal, and there are ways to help your sight if you take precautions, like wearing sunglasses outside and not staring at screens for too long.
8. Poor Hearing
You might have to nod and smile like you have any idea what someone's saying. Of course, hearing loss is frustrating, but it's not a sign of weakness. Regular checkups are important, and if you grew up before sound safety was a thing, you've probably blasted your eardrums at concerts or at your job.
9. Slower Thinking and Memory
Age doesn't matter; it's just a number. It's okay to be forgetful as long as it's not at an alarming rate. Your thinking and problem-solving skills may become slower, and that's okay, too. Forgetting names and struggling to multitask isn't problematic, it can just feel a little frustrating.
10. Weaker Bones and Muscles
Your body has been working hard for many years, so naturally, your bones and muscles have gone through some wear and tear. We get down on ourselves when we feel weaker than we used to, but it doesn't mean you're unhealthy—you're just older.
Now that we've gone through a few totally normal aging signs, let's explore how you can embrace them!
1. Know You've Enjoyed Life
Laughing lines and crow's feet are signs of good times that you should continue having. Spend less time looking in the mirror and more time experiencing life with people you love. Try to change your mindset about your aging skin—look at wrinkles as reminders you've done a lot in your lifetime, and remember, they're 100% organic.
2. Love Your Spots
Your skin has more character now, so let the age spots take the spotlight! Our mindset for age spots relates to how folks with freckles want to hide them. Let's change the attitude for everyone to love their natural skin rather than trying to constantly "fix" it.
3. Let Those Greys Fly
Let your hair go! Embrace your silver tresses. You'll not only save time and money, but your mane will be healthier for it. Color your hair because you love to change up your look, don't do it because you're ashamed.
4. Reframe Your Rolls
Instead of moping about your muffin top, lean into it. You can use your age as an excuse without judgment. If you include physical activities in your daily routine and maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet, then who cares what size you are? Let your body jiggle when you dance!
5. Embrace Your Bumps
You stressed about pimples in your youth and now you have to deal with skin tags? Don't bother. They're small and insignificant to your appearance. Your body is a canvas; let the skin tags paint your skin along with age spots and wrinkles.
6. Your Smile is Still Radiant
If you're routinely brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist, then you've done all you can to promote your oral health. If yellow teeth bother you, there are various whitening solutions. Otherwise, don't fret. It happens to us all, and you should continue to enjoy your favorite food and beverages.
7. Get Creative With Glasses
It's time to play with style! Find glasses that suit you or take this opportunity to get edgy with your look. There are many options to find what you want, including contacts and glasses. There are helpful aids like digital books with large prints or magnifying screens to read your paperbacks.
8. Hide the Hearing Aids
You now have an excuse to disengage from a boring conversation! Nowadays, there are lots of options for hearing aids that are small and barely noticeable. They can be personalized to your needs with volume control and phone connection, too.
9. Nurture Your Aging Mind
Promote your cognitive health by staying active physically and mentally. You're now a full-grown social butterfly—surround yourself with friends and family and participate in social events. You're never too old to learn something new, either, so consider classes or teaching yourself a new skill.
LOGAN WEAVER | @LGNWVR on Unsplash
10. Change How You Move
Don't let your brittle bones and muscles get you down. If you can still lift and walk, adjust the weight and pace. Take the time to be more mindful as you move around to prevent trips and falls. We're always complaining about time moving too fast, so why not enjoy the slowness? If you're able, never stop being active!
