Turning 50 and Embracing the Healthy Life: My Journey to Wellness

So, I’ve hit the big 5-0! Yes, that’s right—half a century of wisdom, experiences, and stories to tell. But let’s get one thing straight: I’m not about to start slowing down or accepting that “we’re getting old” nonsense. Nope, not me. Instead, I’m on a mission to get healthier and feel better than ever. After two hip replacements three years apart and losing over 50 pounds (only to gain back 20 during the cold winter months—thanks, winter!), I’m here to share my journey and inspire you to join me.

Why Health is More Than Just a Number on the Scale

First things first: weight doesn’t equate to health. Let’s just put that out there. For me, true health is:

• Walking up the stairs without gasping for breath: Golden.
• Lifting my Frenchie without feeling like I’m about to pass out: Priceless.
• Getting through a workout with enough energy to tackle the day: Victory.
• Eating right to avoid bloat and lethargy: Essential.
• Sleeping a solid 7-8 hours instead of a broken 4: Dreamy.

I want to run a lap with my teens, maybe even venture out on a snowboard. I refuse to accept that age is an excuse to slow down. I see people older than me doing incredible things, and if they can do it, so can I—and so can you!

The Plan: How We’re Going to Get Healthy, Friends

So, how do we make this happen? Here’s my game plan:

Embrace the Power of Movement

No more couch potato days (okay, maybe just on Sundays with a good book or show). Let’s find activities we love and move our bodies:

• Walking: Start with a stroll around the neighborhood. Maybe bring the dog along—Frenchies need exercise too!
• Home Workouts: Plenty of free videos online for all levels. Yoga, Pilates, HIIT—you name it.
• Join a Class: Sometimes having a set schedule and community can motivate us more. Plus, it’s fun!

Fueling Our Bodies Right

No more crash diets or weird fads. Let’s focus on nourishing our bodies with the right foods:

• Balanced Meals: Think veggies, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains.
• Hydration: Water, water, water. And maybe a cheeky herbal tea here and there.
• Mindful Eating: Pay attention to how foods make you feel. Avoid the ones that cause bloat and fatigue.

Prioritizing Sleep

We all know how important sleep is, but do we actually prioritize it? Let’s change that:

• Create a Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
• Wind Down: No screens an hour before bed. Read a book, meditate, or take a warm bath.
• Comfort is Key: Invest in a good mattress and pillows. Your sleep environment matters.

Setting Realistic Goals

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a healthy lifestyle. Let’s set achievable goals and celebrate our progress:

• Short-Term Goals: Walk 10,000 steps a day, drink 8 glasses of water, get 7 hours of sleep.
• Long-Term Goals: Run that lap with the kids, lose those 20 pounds, conquer a new physical challenge.

Staying Accountable

It’s easier to stay on track when we’re not doing it alone. Let’s support each other:

• Find a Buddy: Partner up with a friend or family member.
• Track Progress: Use a journal or an app to keep track of your habits and improvements.
• Celebrate Wins: Big or small, celebrate every victory!

Join Me on This Journey

This Journey began when I embarked on a brave quest to decrease my caffeine intake—a decision that, frankly, has left my three coffee machines feeling a bit neglected. Instead of my usual caffeine fix, I’ve started indulging in meal replacement protein shakes twice daily. And let me tell you, these shakes are my new secret weapon! They’re like liquid gold, fueling my body and giving me the energy to power through those dreaded morning and afternoon slumps. Who knew that swapping my second and third cup of coffee for a creamy, nutrient-packed shake could make me feel like I’m ready to conquer the world (or the dozen of emails that come with producing events)? Here’s to fewer jitters and more fuel for fabulousness!

So, here’s to us—embracing our 50s with energy, health, and a whole lot of determination. Let’s prove that age is just a number and that we can be as healthy as those who inspire us. Are you with me?

Let’s get moving, eating right, sleeping well, and living our best lives. Here’s to being fit, fabulous, and over 50!

Stay healthy, stay fabulous, and let’s do this together! Got creative health tips? Comment below and weigh in! 

Love,
Geanine