Getting old is part of the natural course of living. More balanced cultures equate a long life with good fortune. Unfortunately, our society is lacking in some key values and currently obsessed with youth, leading many (dare I say most) women to see aging as something to be avoided. There is a time for everything and we must learn to appreciate all seasons of life.

Who won't want to keep a youthful appearance Looking prematurely old could be related to our genetic makeup, but it is now more than ever caused by unhealthy habits and choices. Even genetic proclivities to early aging can be expedited by foolish health choices. For the key to health, knowledge is power, that is, if you put it into practice - the quicker the better!

Making some small changes can help you avoid looking and feeling old beyond your years. Here are a few of the most well-known ways to avoid premature aging ? things under your control.

Exercise! If you are fit and trim, you'll look years younger. So get a move on. Start a regular walking routine, or start toning, or get a Pilates DVD and use it regularly and you'll retard the aging process. Salsa dancing or jogging are good choices. If you experience physical limitations, ask your health care provider about physical therapists near you ? they can tell you good ways to develop a long-term fitness plan. You will look better and the improvement in how you feel will be even better.

Don't be satisfied until you determine ALL the side-effects of the medications you take. Consult your pharmacist and natural health provider about this.

Be sure you get plenty of plain water. Water is necessary to all our body's functions. Lack of water in the body can lead to problems. Don't downplay the value of good water to overall health and vitality.

You can't burn the candle at both ends. Your body was intended to follow a sleep cycle. Most experts recommend 6-8 hours a night, and it's believed that the more sleep you get earlier than midnight, the more restful and rejuvenating your sleep will be.

Give up smoking. It will make a huge difference in how rapidly you age. Your skin and eyes are affected and you inhale toxins that the body works constantly to rid itself of. Smoking loads the body with oxidents which are known to be causes of aging.

Eat what you need, and no more. Don't keep going until you feel full. Forcing the body to expend the energy digesting too much food wears it out prematurely. Carrying around the extra weight from over-indulging stresses and stretches your body even more. Eat properly for your body type and requirements ? in moderation. It has been demonstrated that regular fasting does wonders for the whole system.

We understand there's no hidden Fountain of Youth, and everyone is going to pass away one day, but why hasten the process or contribute to looking and feeling older than is natural. Early aging can be avoided.