7 evening habits of people who stay happy and joyful in their 70s and beyond

As we age, maintaining our zest for life and joy can seem like a task. But those in their 70s and beyond who seem to effortlessly stay happy have certain evening habits in common.

These aren’t about grand gestures or radical lifestyle changes. It’s the little things, done consistently in the evening, that make all the difference.

These are habits that keep them grounded, centered, and most importantly joyful even as they navigate the later years of life.

In this article, I’ll be sharing seven of these evening habits that can help you too stay happy and joyful in your 70s and beyond. So sit back, relax, and let’s discover the secrets to a fulfilling twilight.

1) They prioritize restful sleep

For those in their golden years who seem to radiate joy and positivity, an essential evening habit is prioritizing quality sleep.

Sleep, often overlooked in our younger years, becomes crucial as we age. It’s the body’s time to repair and restore itself, and a lack of it can lead to irritability, memory issues, and a general decrease in happiness.

The happy and joyful 70-somethings understand this well. They have a set bedtime routine that they stick to religiously, understanding the importance of a good night’s sleep. This could include activities like reading a book, meditating, or even a warm bath.

They ensure their environment is conducive for sleep too – a dark, quiet, and cool room is ideal.

In essence, they prioritize their sleep because they understand that it directly impacts their mood and overall well-being the next day. By adopting such an evening habit, they set themselves up for a joyful tomorrow.

2) They nurture their relationships

In my own experience, I’ve seen that those who age with joy and happiness make a conscious effort to nurture their relationships, even in the quiet hours of the evening.

Take my Grandpa Joe, for example. Every evening, without fail, he would pick up the phone and call one of his children or an old friend. Sometimes, he would even pen a thoughtful note or letter. It was his way of keeping his connections alive and strong, no matter how many miles away they lived.

He told me once that these conversations were his ‘vitamin for the soul.’ He said it was these relationships that kept him young at heart, even as his body aged.

This habit of nurturing relationships in the evening has not only allowed him to maintain strong emotional bonds but has also given him a sense of purpose and joy that permeates his life, even in his 80s.

From Grandpa Joe’s example, it is clear that investing time in our relationships can truly enhance our happiness, at any age.

3) They practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is a practice that focuses on being fully present and engaged in the moment, and it’s a common evening habit among those who remain happy and joyful in their 70s and beyond.

A study published by the National Institutes of Health found that older adults who practiced mindfulness exhibited lower levels of loneliness and higher levels of happiness.

In the quiet hours of the evening, these individuals might spend time meditating, doing some gentle yoga, or simply sitting quietly and focusing on their breath. This helps them to let go of the day’s stresses, focus on the present moment, and cultivate a sense of inner peace.

This habit doesn’t require any special equipment or a lot of time either – even a few minutes can have a positive impact. Not only does it help them wind down for the day, but it also allows them to cultivate a deep sense of self-awareness and gratitude.

4) They engage in leisure activities

Keeping the mind active and engaged is another common trait among those who remain joyful well into their 70s and beyond. And one of the ways they do this is by indulging in leisure activities in the evening.

This could be anything that they enjoy doing and keeps their mind stimulated – like reading a book, playing chess, painting, doing crossword puzzles, or even knitting.

These activities are not just for passing time or entertainment. They can also help to keep the brain sharp, reduce stress, and promote feelings of happiness and satisfaction.

Moreover, these activities often become a part of their identity and provide them with a sense of purpose, which further contributes to their overall happiness. It’s their way of making the most out of every moment, every evening.

5) They practice gratitude

I’ve found that a common thread among those who are happy and joyful in their later years is the practice of gratitude.

I remember a time when I was going through a tough period, feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life was throwing my way. It was during this time that I started to practice gratitude in the evenings, writing down three things I was grateful for each day.

Over time, this habit shifted my perspective from focusing on the negative to appreciating the positive. It reminded me of the good things in my life and helped me cultivate a more optimistic outlook.

This habit of practicing gratitude can be incredibly powerful. It helps us appreciate the beauty in our lives and emphasizes the positive aspects, which can make us happier and more content.

So, it’s no surprise that it’s a common evening habit among those who remain happy and joyful in their 70s and beyond.

6) They maintain a healthy diet

A healthy body contributes to a healthy mind, and those who stay joyful in their later years understand this well. One of their key evening habits is to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet.

This doesn’t mean they strictly deny themselves any treats or indulgences. Instead, they focus on moderation and balance. For dinner, they typically opt for meals rich in lean protein, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables – foods that nourish the body and support overall health.

By making thoughtful choices about what they consume in the evening, they not only take care of their physical health but also ensure that they wake up feeling refreshed and energized the next day. This habit, in turn, contributes to their overall happiness and joy.

7) They keep a routine

Above all, what stands out among those who stay happy and joyful in their 70s and beyond is that they have a regular evening routine.

Whether it’s reading, meditating, writing in a gratitude journal, or calling a loved one, these are activities they perform consistently every evening.

Having a routine provides a sense of structure, stability, and comfort. It signals to the brain that it’s time to wind down and prepares the body for restful sleep.

This regularity is key to maintaining both physical health and emotional well-being, paving the way for sustained happiness and joy in their later years.

Reflecting on the evening

As the sun sets and the day transitions into night, it presents us with a unique opportunity to reflect, rejuvenate, and prepare for the dawn of a new day.

The evening can be a sacred time, a quieter part of our day where we can engage in habits that nourish our bodies, calm our minds, and fill our hearts with joy.

The seven habits we’ve explored – prioritizing sleep, nurturing relationships, practicing mindfulness, engaging in leisure activities, expressing gratitude, maintaining a healthy diet, and sticking to a routine – are not exclusive to those in their 70s.

They are universal practices that can enhance our well-being at any age.

It’s never too late or too early to incorporate these habits into your evening routine. Each night is another chance to make choices that contribute to your happiness and joy.

So as you reflect on these seven habits, consider how you can incorporate them into your own evenings. What steps can you take tonight to set yourself on the path towards a happier and more joyful tomorrow?

Ava Sinclair

Ava Sinclair is a former competitive athlete who transitioned into the world of wellness and mindfulness. Her journey through the highs and lows of competitive sports has given her a unique perspective on resilience and mental toughness. Ava’s writing reflects her belief in the power of small, daily habits to create lasting change.

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