Aging Backwards Tuesday Tips #60: The Beauty of a Hurricane

Being a Florida native, I've been through hurricanes for almost 50 years, ranging from category one storms to category fives. I can tell you from experience that the fives are storms to take very seriously, but the ones are usually nothing more than a powerful rain shower. What does all this have to do with Aging Backwards? No matter where you live, storms of some sort are a reality. When you're stuck inside, there are a number of ways to take advantage of the time and keep (or start) Aging Backwards. Here are some indoor tips.

Aging Backwards Storm Tips

1) Jump rope. I always keep a jump rope or two in the house. Jumping rope is one of the best exercises you can do for Aging Backwards. Experts say that "interval" exercise, or doing several sets of raising your heart rate and then recovering, is the best way to work out. It's typical for the electricity to go out during a storm. Jumping rope requires no electricity, compared with a treadmill, but don't do it in the dark because you may trip over the rope.

2) Do push-ups. Another great exercise you can do without electricity! Push-ups are excellent for firming and toning the upper body. Ladies, they really target the chest muscles...Push-ups actually strengthen your abdominal muscles as well, because of the "plank" position you're in when you do them. Besides requiring no electrical power, push-ups can even be done in the dark.

3) Apply a facial mask. I don't know about you, but I'm always on the go and I use that as an excuse for not doing a mask because it takes too long. Well, when you're stuck inside during a storm, you have plenty of time for that mask. You can even do it in the dark, just avoid the eye area. If the power is out, you may not have hot water, but there's usually some left in the tank and you should always use cooler water to rinse your face anyway.

4) Solve a crossword puzzle. Keep a stock of batteries, an extra flashlight and a book of crosswords in the house. Working a crossword puzzle will not only "train your brain," but it will also keep your mind off the storm outside and help you stay calm.

5) Try journal writing. Writing down your thoughts and feelings could help you get clarity in your life. Doing it by flashlight during the storm could help to ease your anxiety. If the storm is stressing you out, putting your fears down on paper may help alleviate them.

So, the next time you find yourself stuck indoors, possibly without electricity, remember that it's a good time to focus on Aging Backwards. Of course, if you're told to evacuate, do it - and don't forget your pets!