We all age, so there is no reason to sweat it. More balanced societies equate old age with good fortune. Sadly, our entertainment driven society is focused on the young, and leaves women especially vulnerable to fears about aging. There is a time for everything and we should learn to value all seasons of life.

It's fine to want to look our best, and we should do so. Genetics plays a role in how we age, but ill-advised choices may make up an even greater part. You can't reconstruct your makeup, so key on what you can do to stay young. Staying up to date and making choices that get you on the right track early is vital to a life of health!

Taking a couple of small steps can make a big difference in how you hold up over time. Begin by following a few easy to implement principles.

Avoid tanning beds if possible. Your skin is your largest organ - wear it with care. It's normal to not have a tan in the colder months. Get that tan outdoors, and don't over do it.

Trim those portions. Most people way over eat. Food is intended to fuel our bodies. It should be pleasurable, but not a type of entertainment. The more excess fat we carry around, the more we wear down our bodies. Eat intelligently for your body type and requirements ? in moderation. Forgoing a meal every now and then can be healthy for you.

Let water be your beverage of choice. If you are aware you don't drink enough pure water, you know where to start. Fluids are what move nutrients through the body and toxins out. Good hydration is good for your vitality.

You need rest so that your body can rejuvenate itself. It's imperitive to get adequate and effective sleep if you want to fight premature aging. Most experts recommend six to eight hours a night, and it's widely suggested that the more sleep you get prior to midnight, the better your sleep will be.

Give up smoking. It will make a big difference in how you age. Smoking will infest your system with toxins that build up with time, and the effects will show in your skin.

Stay up to date regarding the known side-effects of drugs you are taking. There is no way that the interactions between them can all be accounted for. Check with your pharmacist and alternative health provider for more information.

Exercise! If you are physically fit, you'll look years younger. So get active. Start a regular walking routine, or start toning, or get a low impact aerobics DVD and use it regularly and you'll delay the aging process. Join a tennis club, or find a friend to walk with you. Most gyms provide personal trainers included in the membership or for an extra fee. You'll look and feel better if you get into a regular exercise program.

We are aware there's no hidden Fountain of Youth, and everyone is going to pass on one day, but why hasten the time or end up looking and feeling older than is natural. Smart decisions can extend our youthful time.