do new things

Taking up different hobbies and learning new skills can have very favourable benefits to brain health, particularly when it comes to ageing. New activities can help to challenge the body and mind in fresh ways by strengthening neural connections and improving physical vitality.

Looking at the physical aspect - balance, flexibility and strength, along with coordination, are hugely important as we move into middle and later years and introducing resistance training or simple tai chi or yoga exercises, for example, can go a long way in helping with all of the above.

If you haven't yet tried any of these types of exercise, all the better, for a beginner's mindset helps to keep the brain sharp and adaptable. The process of learning something new can also bring a sense of achievement and purpose and helps to fight against feelings of stagnation.

Fitness skills like mindful movement - of which dancing should even be counted - support stress resilience, which can lead to stronger immune function and improved sleep.

Learning and developing new skills can get a person into the mindset of continuing to grow as opposed to ageing. Such a change in mindset may even have the knock on effect of motivating others, possibly making you a role model for family and friends.

As you age, stay curious and look for motivation in trying physical activities that you maybe haven't yet sampled or that you have spent your life putting off.