People who maintain a youthful energy as they age usually adopt these 7 specific habits

There’s a big gap between aging and feeling old.

The secret, you ask? It all boils down to habits. Aging is inevitable, but feeling old is a choice.

People who keep that youthful zest as they rack up the years aren’t magicians—they simply adopt certain beneficial habits.

Living with a spring in your step regardless of your age is achievable, and I’m going to share with you the 7 specific habits these age-defying individuals usually embrace.

1) Regular exercise

It’s no secret that exercise is the elixir of life.

People who maintain a youthful energy as they age aren’t necessarily running marathons or lifting heavy weights daily, but they do keep their bodies moving.

Exercise keeps the body healthy and the mind sharp—it’s a proven fact.

It stimulates your heart, strengthens your muscles, and even boosts your mood.

In fact, a new study of individuals over 70 who have consistently exercised for years revealed that their hearts, lungs, and muscles were as healthy and strong as those of people in their 40s.

Simply put, exercise is a habit that those with youthful energy swear by.

They understand that to keep feeling young, you’ve got to keep moving.

But remember, always listen to your body. Start slow and build up gradually—the goal is not to wear yourself out but to maintain a consistent routine.

2) Embracing a positive mindset

I can’t stress enough how vital this one is.

Growing up, I had a neighbor, Mrs. Adams, who was in her late 80s but had the energy of someone half her age.

She was always smiling, took everything in stride and could always find the silver lining in any situation.

Her secret? A positive mindset.

She once told me, “The world will throw all sorts of things at you. You can’t control that.

But you can control how you react to them. Always choose positivity.”

And that’s exactly what I’ve tried to do.

I’ve realized that maintaining a positive mindset doesn’t mean ignoring life’s difficulties. It means approaching them in a more constructive and optimistic way.

People who maintain a youthful energy as they age don’t just think positively, they live it.

They choose to focus on the good rather than dwelling on the bad. 

This habit has not only helped me maintain my own youthful energy but also navigate life with a smile on my face—just like Mrs. Adams.

3) Practicing mindfulness

Now, this is a habit that can truly change your life, and I say this from first-hand experience.

Mindfulness, in essence, is the practice of purposefully focusing your attention on the present moment—and accepting it without judgment. It’s about living in the here and now.

People who embrace mindfulness often have a calm and youthful energy because they aren’t weighed down by the regrets of the past or the worries of the future.

Instead, they approach life with curiosity and gratitude, which makes even ordinary moments feel meaningful. 

What’s great about this habit is that it’s incredibly accessible.

You don’t need fancy tools or hours of free time—just a few minutes of focused breathing or a conscious effort to stay present during everyday activities can make a difference.

It’s a small practice with big benefits, helping you feel more grounded, less stressed, and undeniably youthful.

In my book, “The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment“, I delve into this habit in great detail.

I share practical strategies to help you cultivate mindfulness, make it a part of your everyday routine, and truly live in the present.

By practicing mindfulness, you can improve your mental wellbeing, reduce stress, and even slow down the aging process. 

Remember, youthfulness is not just about the body—it’s equally about the mind.

So why not start practicing mindfulness today? You’ll be surprised at how it can transform your life.

4) Staying socially connected

Connections matter, and I don’t mean the ones on social media.

Real-life interactions, conversations that make you think, laughter that makes your belly hurt—these are the connections that truly matter.

Research shows that maintaining social connections has a significant impact on both mental and physical health. Meaningful relationships can lower stress, boost happiness, and even improve longevity.

It’s no wonder that people who prioritize staying connected often seem more energetic and youthful—they’re constantly exchanging ideas, sharing joy, and finding support through the ups and downs of life.

I remember a time in my life when I fell into the trap of work, work, and more work.

Days turned into weeks, weeks into months—I was isolated and didn’t even realize it.

My energy levels dipped, my enthusiasm waned, and I felt older than ever.

It wasn’t until a chance reunion with old friends that I realized what I was missing.

The laughter, the shared stories, the sense of belonging—it rejuvenated me.

From then on, I made it a point to stay socially connected.

Be it catching up with friends, spending quality time with family or even striking up a conversation with a stranger at the park—it all counts.

This habit can make a significant difference in how you feel.

So reach out, connect, and watch your youthful energy soar.

5) Embracing change

Change can be intimidating, but those who stay vibrant and energized understand that it’s an essential part of life.

Rather than resisting it, they lean into it, seeing change as an opportunity for growth and discovery.

Whether it’s adjusting to new routines, learning a skill, or adapting to life’s unexpected twists, embracing change keeps them flexible and forward-thinking.

What’s powerful about this mindset is how it shifts perspective.

Instead of focusing on what’s being lost or disrupted, they look for what can be gained.

Change, for them, isn’t something to fear—it’s a chance to explore, improve, and evolve.

This willingness to adapt keeps their outlook fresh and their energy levels high.

The beauty of embracing change is that it prevents stagnation.

Staying open to life’s new chapters, even the challenging ones, keeps you engaged and curious.

It’s not always easy, but the rewards—personal growth, new experiences, and a stronger sense of resilience—are well worth the effort.

6) Prioritizing rest and relaxation

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget the importance of slowing down.

Those who radiate youthful energy, however, understand the vital role rest and relaxation play in overall well-being.

They prioritize good sleep, knowing that it’s during this time that their bodies repair and rejuvenate.

They also make time for relaxation—be it reading a book, soaking in a warm bath, or simply sitting quietly in nature.

This habit of prioritizing rest and relaxation helps to manage stress levels, boost mood, and preserve that youthful energy.

7) Eating a balanced diet

Lastly, what you put into your body directly affects how you feel.

People who maintain a youthful energy as they age make it a point to nourish their bodies with a balanced diet.

They understand that every meal is an opportunity to fuel their bodies with the nutrients it needs.

They opt for whole foods, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. And they avoid processed foods as much as possible.

Eating a balanced diet boosts your energy levels, keeps your brain sharp, and helps maintain a healthy weight—all of which contribute to that youthful energy.

So make mindful eating a habit. Your body will thank you.

Final thoughts

Staying energized and youthful isn’t about trying to turn back the clock—it’s about adopting habits that keep your mind and body active, your connections strong, and your outlook positive.

Small, intentional changes in how you live each day can make a big difference in how you feel as you age.

In my book, “The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment“, I talk about how mindfulness can help you cultivate these habits and truly live in the present.

It’s a worthwhile read for anyone looking to embrace these habits and nurture their youthful energy.

By embracing these habits, you can keep your spark alive, no matter what stage of life you’re in. After all, youthful energy isn’t just about age—it’s about how you approach life.