How To Stay Healthy in Midlife
Welcome to midlife, a time when the ability to stay healthy might have turned your life upside down.
The stability you once took for granted now hangs in the balance.
As you navigate through the ups and downs of mom life and strive to maintain your well-being, it’s easy to let your healthcare slip as you care for everyone else.
That’s why these tips on how to stay healthy in midlife are invaluable.
1. Make small changes to stay healthy instead of overhauling your entire routine
Instead of attempting a complete overhaul, start by making small changes that you can stick with long term.
This could be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or swapping out sugary snacks for healthier options.
If elevators don’t exist in your neck of the woods, taking a walk around your backyard or at a local park would help you to stay healthy. That’s what I do except that the backyard is filled with snow.
These small changes add up over time and have a big impact on your health.
2. Find an exercise program you enjoy so you’ll stick with it long-term
Exercise is a crucial part of staying healthy, but it’s important to find an activity that you actually enjoy.
Whether it’s pilates, Essentrics, T-Tapp, walking, swimming, or My Library over at Grace-Filled Movement, finding something you love will make it easier to stick with and incorporate into your routine.
Plus, exercise can also be a great way to reduce stress and improve mental health. It’s an amazing way to stay healthy in your middle years of life.
3. Focus on how your body feels, not the number on the scale
As we age, our bodies change in ways that might not align with societal beauty standards.
I know for me, it’s easy to think staying healthy means I maintain the same exact weight I was in high school. I think we mature on the outside but inside we are still the same kids.
Instead of fixating on the number on the scale or comparing yourself to others, focus on how your body feels.
Are you able to move easily and comfortably?
Are you strong and energized?
These are better indicators of overall health than a number.
4. Don’t be too hard on yourself through setbacks – perfection isn’t the goal
Inevitably, there will be setbacks on your journey to stay healthy in midlife.
I find it’s so difficult to eat healthily during the winter. I am so cold that I am looking for comforting warm food that likely has more carbs and calories.
Maybe you skip a few workouts or indulge in some not-so-healthy food choices.
But I find that . . .
It’s important not to beat yourself up over these slip-ups and instead focus on progress rather than perfection.
Remember, staying healthy is a lifestyle, not a one-time achievement.
5. Cook more meals at home using fresh ingredients
Cooking meals at home gives you control over what goes into your food, allowing you to make healthier choices.
Try experimenting with new recipes and incorporating more fresh, whole ingredients into your meals.
Whole ingredients don’t mean that it’s raw and cold. You can drop raw carrots or celery into a nice warm stew.
Not only will this benefit your physical health, but it can also be a fun and bonding activity for families and friends.
6. Spend time with supportive friends who share your wellness goals
Surrounding yourself with supportive friends can make a huge difference in your overall well-being.
Find friends who share similar wellness goals, whether it’s exercising together or trying out new healthy recipes.
Having a support system can help keep you motivated and accountable on your journey to stay healthy.
You might find it fun to have a gathering with friends either at a restaurant or inviting them for a night of games at your home.
7. Prioritize sleep – aim for 7-9 hours per night for energy and resilience
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to sacrifice sleep for productivity.
I burned the candle at both ends while I was raising my kids. So often I was beyond exhausted and it was more like operating in survival mode.
But as you get a little older each year, getting enough rest is essential for staying healthy.
Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to give your body the time it needs to recharge and repair. I find this is more accurate than I’d like to admit.
8. Drink water throughout the day instead of sugary drinks
Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, but many popular drinks are loaded with sugar and empty calories.
I used to drink sweet tea and it was filled with more sugar than tea!
Instead of reaching for soda or other sugary drinks, make it a habit to drink water throughout the day.
Carry your water with you in a bottle and keep it near you.
Not only will this encourage you to stay hydrated, but it can also improve your energy levels and aid in weight management.
9. Include time with Jesus
When you include Jesus each morning, you start your day off with a focus on God.
This can help you stay spiritually healthy and grounded, as well as provide strength and resilience during challenging times.
You might:
- Read your Bible!
- Scripture Writing!
- Prayer!
- Journaling Art!
- Connect with Jesus throughout the day!
- Nourish your soul with hymns and songs!
10. Stay emotionally healthy by taking time for self-care
Self-care is often seen as a luxury, but it’s actually essential for maintaining emotional health.
Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax.
You might:
- Reading a book!
- Take a bath!
- Go for a walk in nature!
- Do a puzzle!
- Become artistic!
- Social media fast!
Prioritizing self-care can help prevent burnout and improve overall well-being.
Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary.
Celebrate your progress and accomplishments along the way
Staying healthy is a journey, not a destination. It’s important to celebrate your progress and accomplishments along the way.
Remember that staying healthy will look different than when you were in your twenties.
Be happy with yourself for making small changes and working towards your wellness goals.
Celebrate with a night out, a relaxing spa day, or simply treat yourself to something that’s been on your ‘Bucket List’.
It’s not a bad thing to acknowledge and reward yourself for your hard work and dedication to staying healthy in midlife.
Stop by the coffee shop and spend time with a friend or in solitude with others around you. That is my favorite way to spend an hour after accomplishing a goal.
So, go ahead and enjoy that slice of cake guilt-free!
How will you stay healthy in midlife?
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