The Journey of Taking Care of You!
Hey there, lovely ladies! Today, I want to delve into a topic that's close to my heart – healthy aging and wellness, and the after 50 battles with weight. For years, even before 50, I tried countless diets, each promising quick fixes, and magical transformations. But guess what? It was a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, and it never truly brought the lasting change I longed for. So, I decided to pivot, and it was the best decision of my life. Instead of obsessing over diets, I shifted my focus to being at a weight that was not only healthy, but something I could maintain while still being able to eat and drink all the things I love, on occasion!
So, for me it was more about embracing a healthier lifestyle. I started to view food as nourishment for my body, not the enemy. I began to make better choices, choosing wholesome, more balanced meals that fueled me with energy and vitality. I discovered that moving my body wasn’t to dread and it helped me feel more empowered, not punished. It wasn't about losing pounds; it was about being realistic, accepting that my body wasn’t 30 anymore, and discovering a newfound appreciation for the incredible journey of aging gracefully.
I started with: My Mind
I can only speak for myself, but I have found that the real secret to any meaningful change in my life – it all starts in the mind. 💭✨ Whether it's embarking on a fitness journey, shedding some weight, or transforming any aspect of our lives, it's our mental state that sets the stage for success. You see, the moment we decide to care for our minds, our bodies naturally follow suit.
So, I read my Bible and do my devotions every morning, and the I pray. It starts my day feeling connected to Jesus and a peaceful mind. I also love music, so when I walk, clean house, or even lay at the pool, I am listening to music….it truly does calm the beast!
So, here's a gentle reminder: don't underestimate the power of mind-care. Prioritize your mental well-being, embrace positivity, and nourish your mind with empowering thoughts. When you cultivate a strong and loving relationship with your mind, it becomes the driving force behind your transformation. Bottom of Form
I started Getting and Staying Active
Regular exercise has a multitude of benefits for women over 50. It helps maintain muscle mass, reduces the risk of osteoporosis, and keeps the joints flexible. Moreover, it boosts mood and promotes better sleep.
One of the pillars of healthy aging is staying physically active. It's not about becoming a marathon runner overnight or ever, but rather finding activities that you genuinely enjoy and that keep you moving. Whether it's dancing, hiking, swimming, or simply walking in the park, there’s something for everyone, just make it something you look forward to.
I walk 3 miles every morning. I have tried treadmills and indoor bikes, but I get really bored. I enjoy being outside in the mornings, listening to music, and seeing all the other folks in my area walking their dogs, jogging etc. I also try and do some strength/weight training twice a week, that is still a struggle, but I am working on it,
I also started: Adopting a More Balanced Diet
We all know that nutrition is the foundation of health at any age, and it becomes even more critical as we age. A balanced diet is key to staying energetic and maintaining a healthy weight. But I also know that it isn’t easy AND I find that’s it’s a lot of WORK!! Here are a few things that I try to keep in mind as I work on this:
1. Load Up on Fruits and Vegetables:
Incorporate a rainbow of fruits and vegetables into your daily meals. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that combat aging-related health issues. I have also started making smoothies that have frozen fruits, spinach, almond butter, and other nutritious things, and for me it’s made a huge difference.
2. Choose Whole Grains:
Select whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread over refined grains. They provide sustained energy and essential nutrients. I really work to stay with low carb options in this area. I have found a few low carb bread and tortilla options and I keep my pasta, as much as I like it to a minimum.
3. Lean Protein Sources:
Include lean protein sources like poultry, fish, beans, and tofu in your diet to support muscle maintenance and repair. This is a no brainer…but I have also found that I enjoy veggie burgers and chicken-less chicken! Yes, you heard right chicken-less chicken!!
4. Healthy Fats:
Don't shy away from fats altogether; instead, choose healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil. They are good for your heart and skin. I swapped out my peanut butter with almond buttes and I use real butter and olive oil.
5. Hydration:
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration is vital for overall health and helps maintain skin elasticity. This is so key…. drink, drink and drink some more. I have all kinds of things I do to get as much water in as possible. I use sugar free, calorie free, coconut and French vanilla syrup in sparking water, I have packets of flavor to add to my water…. whatever it takes get that water in!
6. Portion Control
Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating. Eating mindfully can help you savor your food and prevent unnecessary weight gain. I have opted to use a smaller plate, this has really helped me with portion control, but the plate is full, so it helps my mind believe that I will be full! lol
I hope this was helpful to you and that you got a few new ideas of things to try that might help you on your journey.
Remember friends, healthy aging is a journey and a beautiful transformation, not a destination. It's a time of self-discovery, wisdom, and embracing the moments that truly matter. Embrace it with an open heart and remember that taking care of yourself is a lifelong commitment. It's never too late to start prioritizing your well-being. Healthy aging isn't about defying your age but rather about thriving in each stage while taking care of your body, mind, and spirit