And suddenly you know: It’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings. ― Meister Eckhart

I believe there are many women out there that may believe once they have turned 60 there is no need to continue to preserve their health or keep up with personal care.

Many of the people I talk to get to a point where so much has changed in their lives that taking care of themselves seems to become less important. We aren’t striving as hard to keep our best interest.

It’s also easy to let go of many of the daily routines we once had. Suddenly, you have let too many things go, and you find yourself needing to get back into a healthy state.

Knowing you need to do something and taking the required steps don’t always go in the same direction. You may talk and dream about the results, or perhaps someone has made suggestions, but you still don’t act.

Perhaps you need more reasons to change direction or feel overwhelmed and unsure where to begin.

Bottom line is, it must start with you. No one can make you do something you don’t want for yourself. Wanting something, seeing the future, planning and then committing are stages to get you to the results you desire. Sometimes it means making change slowly to build habits.

You don’t have to make a sudden big change all at once, though you can if you want to. Usually, we try to make small changes that lead to a big change.

For example, if you are looking to move towards a healthier lifestyle, you can start with baby steps. So many people I talk to believe they need to make massive changes to their life to be healthy. Some need more than others but we all must start somewhere so here are tips to begin those baby steps to better health after 60.

Get a Check-Up

If you haven’t had a visit for a wellness check with your physician, or you have health issues, I recommend you see your doctor before starting any program that will change your lifestyle.

Drink Water

Water is one of the most important elements to help you become healthier. Over the last several years, there have been reports that Americans may suffer from chronic dehydration. Some studies showed up to 75 percent of Americans may be functioning in a chronic state of dehydration.

Although opinions vary on the recommended amount of fluid intake per day, health authorities commonly recommend eight 8-ounce glasses.

So, what are the benefits of drinking water?

Increasing your water consumption can help you focus and have more energy. It reduces hunger if consumed prior to meals. Water will also help get rid of toxins.

If you are looking to help your skin, water is a natural anti-aging treatment. So, the next time you must choose your drink, choose water!

Eat Real Food

Nourish your body with real foods. Choose unprocessed, whole foods. When you eat, do you think about what you are consuming? Do you enjoy the food by tasting and appreciating what you are eating? Are you making healthy choices?

Take time out without distractions when having your meals. Learn to focus on the food, taste without rushing. No computer, phone or television. You may find you enjoy the meals more and you will fill up faster by slowing your rate of intake and paying attention to the cues of being full.

Get Outside

It may be as little as a 10-minute walk, but getting outdoors for fresh air and a mental break can add a world of good to re-energize your spirit. Want to lift your mood? Take a quick walk around the block.

Get Enough Rest

Sleep can be your best friend, while not getting enough sleep can throw your body and mind out of whack. If you have trouble sleeping, find ways to control your environment to help get enough rest.

Look for relaxation techniques before bed. Get into a routine to regulate your body. If you need a specific sound, buy a white-noise machine. Keep your phone, TV and other distractions out of the bedroom. Providing your body with enough rest can help with decision making, willpower and energy.

Use Your Muscles

Strength is important for us all as we age. My sister had a goal to stay strong enough to get herself off the floor without help.

Building your strength can help reduce depression and all sorts of chronic diseases. It can improve flexibility, increase bone mass and lower body fat. Plus, you can do it without going to a gym. Look for body weight exercises you can do almost anywhere.

As you incorporate these small changes, you will see lifelong habits develop. Get excited. Remember you are working on having the best quality life possible as you age.

What steps are you taking to live a healthy and happy life in your 60s? Please join the conversation below and share your tips with the community!