In March, we often talk about “the luck of the Irish” and we see those lucky shamrocks everywhere. Well, having fun and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day is great (in moderation, of course!). But being healthy and living well takes more than just luck. They take some focus and some effort. Lucky for all of us, that can be fun too!

Exercise

There is no secret to this one and no searching for the leprechaun’s gold. It is simply about moving your body. Our bodies were not meant to be sedentary. Sitting on the couch, remote clutched in your hand is just not enough to keep you well and strong.

So, what can you do? What you will be most successful with is something that appeals to you. Are you someone who enjoys time on your own or do you prefer a more social experience? If you need quiet time, the easiest thing you can do is lace up your walking shoes and get started. It’s okay if you only walk to the end of the street today. But if you keep at it, soon you will be heading around the block or moving through your neighborhood. Too cold or rainy? Malls are open early just for walkers. Bring a friend or put on your headphones and listen to music you like or an interesting book. Movement matters. It just does.

And if walking isn’t your thing there are many programs around the community for you. From chair yoga in a senior center to joining a gym, the choice is yours. Some of us like to work out at home using the many online classes available. Those work for your schedule and your preferences and you can try all the options before you decide what’s best for you. You can also involve your friends and family. They can exercise with you, or they can be your accountability partners, checking in with encouragement and support.

Use Your Mind

Just like your body needs to move, your brain also doesn’t benefit from being stagnant. Take a class or learn a language—all easy options to do online and even from an app on your phone. Trying something new keeps those brain cells humming. Games are also good. There are many online games that you can try, some of them free and very accessible. If you read the NY Times or the Washington Post, you have their games available daily. And, if you don’t subscribe but like those games, you can simply subscribe to the game site. The choices are yours.

Journaling is another great way to stimulate your thinking. Maybe you want to recount memories to share with others. Maybe you want to write about all that is on your mind and leave anything that is bothering you on the page. Go for it. It is easy and free and helps your mind stay active.

Step away from the TV and read a book. Try something you don’t normally read. You can also listen to many different books and get the same impact as reading, opening you to new ideas and experiences.

Find Calm

Internal peace is often the most difficult thing to achieve. If you can take some time to meditate, it can help you relax and improve your sleep. Meditation does not have to involve sitting cross legged on the floor. It can be a walk in nature, a few minutes of listening to music in a quiet space, sitting and listening to the sound of your breath. There are many apps that are free and available to help your find your inner peace.

While we may not be able to rely on “luck” to age well, there is so much we can do. And maybe we’ll find one of those leprechauns willing to help us stay strong and healthy!