If you really want to thrive in your 60s and beyond, say goodbye to these 6 evening habits

When it comes to thriving in your later years, most people think it’s all about adding the right habits. But what if the key to truly thriving wasn’t just about what you do, but what you choose to leave behind?

The truth is, some of our everyday routines could be quietly working against us, especially in the evening when we wind down from the day. Small, seemingly harmless habits can have a bigger impact than you might think.

If you’re looking to set yourself up for success and vitality well into your 60s and beyond, it might be time to let go of these six evening habits.

Let’s take a closer look.

1) Late-night snacking

In my experience, one of the most common habits that can jeopardize our health and well-being in our 60s is late-night snacking.

This habit often creeps in subtly, as we sit down to watch our favorite evening TV shows or flick through a book before bed. It’s comfortable, it’s routine, and before we know it, we’ve got a bag of chips or a bar of chocolate at our side.

But here’s the kicker. As noted by experts, eating late at night can upset your digestion, affect your sleep quality, and contribute to weight gain.

This is not to say you should go to bed hungry. If you need something, opt for a light, healthy snack.

However, making a conscious decision to limit excessive snacking can profoundly impact your health and energy levels in your 60s and beyond.

2) Neglecting bedtime routines

I’ll be the first to admit, I was guilty of this. After a long day, I would often just collapse into bed without any wind-down process.

The result? Disrupted sleep patterns and a groggy, unproductive start to the following day.

It wasn’t until I established a regular bedtime routine that I saw significant improvements.

Now, each night, I take some time to unwind with calming activities like reading or listening to light music. This signals to my body that it’s time to rest, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up refreshed.

If you, like me, have been bypassing a nightly routine, it’s never too late to start. Establishing these rituals can vastly improve your sleep quality and overall wellbeing. Trust me, I’ve been there!

3) Overexposure to screens

In the modern world, many of us spend our evenings glued to screens, whether it’s watching TV, browsing the internet, or scrolling through social media on our phones.

However, this practice can be particularly harmful as we age. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with our body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.

Furthermore, research has shown a correlation between excessive TV and mobile phone screen time and an increased risk of developing conditions such as coronary artery disease and heart failure – conditions that are already more prevalent among older adults.

Therefore, if you’re aiming to thrive, consider limiting your screen time, especially in the evening. Your body will thank you for it!

4) Lack of physical activity

Here’s another evening habit that can impact your zest for life in your 60s and beyond: a lack of physical activity.

This is well backed up by experts. For instance, Dr. Linda Fried, dean of Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, has said, “Exercise is the closest thing we’ve found to a magic pill for combating the effects of aging,”

Now, I’m not suggesting you should be hitting the gym for intense workouts every evening. But incorporating some light physical activities into your evening routine can work wonders for your health and well-being.

Activities like stretching, yoga, or even a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood can aid digestion, promote better sleep, and keep your joints flexible. Plus, it’s a great way to shake off the stress of the day!

5) Spending all your evenings alone

Humans are social creatures, and our connections with others play a critical role in our overall health and happiness—especially as we age. Yet, many of us find ourselves spending evening after evening in solitude, either out of habit or convenience.

The renowned Harvard Study of Adult Development, which tracked participants for over 80 years, has shown that meaningful relationships are a key predictor of long-term health and happiness.

Isolation, on the other hand, has been linked to higher depression, poorer health outcomes, and even a shorter lifespan.

While it’s important to have time for yourself, making an effort to connect with others in the evenings—whether it’s calling a loved one, sharing a meal with friends, or participating in a group activity—can have profound benefits for your well-being.

6) Neglecting self-care

If there’s one thing I want you to take away from this, it’s the importance of self-care. It is absolutely critical to thriving in your 60s and beyond.

Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and spa days. It’s about making time for activities that replenish your body, mind, and spirit.

This could be reading a good book, spending time with loved ones, or even just sitting quietly and enjoying your own company.

As noted by experts, neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, unhealthy eating, and less motivation to socialize. So make it a priority to spend some part of your evening doing something just for you. This small act can make a big difference in your overall well-being and happiness.

Final thoughts: It’s about choices

The journey into our 60s and beyond is undeniably linked to the choices we make, particularly those related to our daily habits.

One such crucial choice pertains to our evening routines. As the sun dips below the horizon and the day winds down, the habits we nurture can significantly influence how we age and our enjoyment of these golden years.

Whether it’s saying no to late-night snacks, embracing a consistent bedtime routine, limiting screen time, or prioritizing self-care, each decision contributes to a healthier, vibrant life.

It’s not about depriving ourselves or adhering strictly to a regimented routine. It’s about making conscious choices that foster well-being and help us thrive.

So as you navigate your 60s and beyond, remember that it’s never too late to reassess your habits and make beneficial changes.