Aging has a dark underside that sometimes means that our physical and mental vitality leaves us and we wilt in our twilight years. But this does not need to be. On the bright side, we know that we can preserve our bodies and our minds, and enhance our vitality. This article focuses on the art of aging and what measures we can take to get the fulfillment out of life that we desire.

Many people attribute living to a ripe old age to having a good sense of humor! Life can get you down, but if you can laugh about it, you stand a good chance of living longer. Laughter is healthy. It increases oxygen intake and makes you feel happy!

Living can be very hard work. Even if you do not have a job outside of the home, it is going to take it out of you some days. Take the time to rest now and then. You could do this every day if your schedule permits but if it does not, be sure to rest and relax at least a couple times a week.

If you find that you are feeling lonely when you are at home, consider getting a pet. They are wonderful companions and will provide you with company when no one else is around. Be sure that you pick the pet that will work out the best for you. If you do not want to commit to just one pet, consider being a foster home for animals in shelters.

Releasing endorphins is going to make you feel great. Let yourself feel emotions. Laugh and cry but be sure to laugh more than you cry. If it takes a funny movie or a funny book to bring out the laughter, take the time to watch or read them. It is the body's natural way to feel good.

Stay away from harsh environments. Staying in the heat or cold for too long can do damage to your skin. Damage can range anywhere from minor burns and chapping to skin cancer.

Our hectic times tend to push us into pointless, repetitive activity. Resist this. Take control of this precious time given you in old age. Read a deeply meaningful book. Reach out to someone in need, someone you wouldn't have met during your working life, and give each other the gift of appreciation and understanding.

There are 19 foods that are considered to be must have items in your refrigerator and pantry, and they will work wonders for your health and vitality as you age. Write these down and post it somewhere in your home to keep yourself reminded to stay stocked: seafood, dairy, spinach, nuts, olive oil, broccoli, oatmeal, flax seed meal, avocados, pomegranate juice, tomatoes, tofu, yogurt, red onions, garlic, beans and lentils! It may seem like a lot but it is the least you can do for yourself and the best results you can yield from your meal planning efforts!

Growing old is old fashioned. Our increased health spans mean that we are younger than we think. Aging with grace is an art and takes effort to see the beauty in it at times. So, go out and live life to the fullest because you are not as old as you think.