Nearing 50 can be our “second act,” redefining our relationships, careers, and health. We’re living better than ever, and we want to look as good as we feel. For real wisdom on beauty and aging, here’s some advice from women in their fifties and sixties, and tips for aging with happiness and health.
Taking control
Natalie Dakers, 59, had “a moment of reckoning” at age 50. “I had this idea that the best part of my life was over … I realized, if I kept feeling this way, I’d be doomed by 60. I decided to take control, to make an effort, to get strong and healthy and engaged in the world.”
Staying active and vital
Terry Bayuk, 68, credits workouts with helping her maintain her active lifestyle. Her focus is on mobility and injury prevention for kayaking and other outdoor pursuits. “Being in nature, taking in the beauty of my surroundings, appreciating all the shades of green: that’s spirituality to me.”
Being connected and grateful
Leslie Harris, 64, is a personal trainer and musician who’s always been “obsessed with longevity.” In addition to consistency in exercise and nutrition, Harris makes time every morning to reflect on three things she’s grateful for.
Life lessons
These women can teach us that it’s better to get ready for healthier aging now, rather than playing catch-up later. Looks aside, we can’t enjoy life if our health and spirits suffer.
Making the most of midlife
Our interview subjects had many suggestions for aging well, and research backs them up. Activity and nutrition are the cornerstones of health, but what other factors can help us thrive?
Get social
Enjoy a group dinner, join a walking club, take a class, and meet new people. Of course, it’s important to follow your local COVID-19 restrictions and safety measures.
Go outside
Forest trails, beach walks—even gardening—connect us to the earth and reduce our stress levels. Also consider forest bathing, which involves spending time under the forest canopy, making a concerted effort to enjoy the surrounding environment with all your senses, soaking it all in.
Cultivate hobbies
Music, dance, languages, and art enrich our lives, and learning new things maintains cognitive health. Forget about waiting for retirement. Today is a good day to start pursuing what you’ve always wondered about or to take up that interest you loved so much when you were younger. Even adult coloring, which helps many people with stress relief, can be a great release.
Let it go
Surround yourself with positive people. Treat yourself with kindness and compassion. Don’t dwell on things in the past you cannot change. Look forward to the great things you can make happen. Build a vision board to help you focus on your goals and stay positive. Keep a gratefulness journal.
Take pride
Express yourself through fashion if you enjoy it. A manicure and a great haircut can help you feel your best. Know your strengths and take time to appreciate that you have them. Realize your best decades can be ahead of you.
Assemble a team
Hire someone to help you with workouts or healthy eating. Get professional help for issues or injuries and recognize that recovery may take longer. Let BetsyHealth be a part of your nutrition plan, helping you choose the right supplements for you health goals.
Supplements for lifelong beauty
We try to get nutrients from the foods we eat, but supplements can be an important part of filling nutrient gaps.
- Vitamins C and E can support the skin, enabling it to maintain collagen and helping reduce sun damage.
- Vitamin D levels are important to maintain—especially because you’re protecting your skin from sun damage (right?). Sunscreens reduce the amount of D we can convert from time spent out in the sun.
- Collagen peptides promise to plump the skin from the inside out, supporting elasticity and preserving the “bounce” of healthy skin. As we age, our natural collagen stores deplete.
- Omega 3s can improve the health of skin as well as combatting dry, tired-looking eyes. They also support a variety of other functions in the body.
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BetsyHealth Note: This article is for educational purposes only. None of its statements are designed to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease. The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Before trying a supplement, consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have a medical condition, including being pregnant or nursing, or take prescription or over-the-counter medication. For example, many supplements also thin blood.
Article copyright 2021 by Alive Publishing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
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