Embracing Aging
As I reflect on my own journey through midlife, I want to celebrate the changes that come with aging. We’re often bombarded with conflicting messages—on one side, we’re told to fight the aging process with every anti-aging product and treatment out there, and on the other side, we’re told to simply “age gracefully.” So, what’s right? What should you really do?
Here’s the truth: Aging isn’t something to fear or resist. It’s a celebration of who you’ve become and all the experiences that have shaped you. But it’s also a time to recognize that your body and life are changing, and those changes deserve attention, care, and understanding.
So, what’s the right approach?
It’s not about picking a side between “anti-aging” or “graceful aging”—it’s about finding what works for you. It’s about taking the time to listen to your body, honor its needs, and give it the support it deserves as you move through this next phase.
As I move through midlife, both as a pharmacist and a midlife coach, I’ve found myself reflecting on the process of aging in ways I never had before. This phase isn’t just about the physical changes we experience—it’s also about shifting how we think about our health, our purpose, and how we want to show up in the world.
Aging isn’t something we can escape, but it is something we can approach with awareness and intention. And for me, that means focusing on three key areas: medical care, self-care, and soul care. These elements form a balance that allows me to not only look and feel good but also navigate this journey with a sense of empowerment.
Medical Care: The Foundation
As a pharmacist, I’ve spent years working closely with women who are navigating midlife, menopause, and chronic diseases that often come with aging. I’ve seen firsthand the importance of understanding your body’s needs from a medical perspective.
For me, staying informed about my health means:
Regular check-ups: I make sure I’m staying on top of essential tests, like hormone levels, bone density, and cholesterol. These numbers give me a clear picture of where I stand and help me make informed decisions.
Preventive care: This is where I’m really focused. Instead of waiting for problems to arise, I’m exploring ways to support my body through nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to prevent issues before they start.
Medication, when needed: I also believe there’s a place for science and medicine. Whether it’s managing menopause symptoms or addressing a specific health condition, knowing when to lean on medication is crucial to feeling my best.
I see medical care as the foundation of health—it gives us the data and tools to make sure our bodies are functioning well. But I also know that’s not the whole picture.
Self-Care: The Daily Practice
Beyond the clinical side of things, self-care is what allows me to sustain my energy, feel strong, and keep up with the demands of life. In my younger years, self-care felt optional—something I’d squeeze in if I had time. Now, I know it’s non-negotiable.
For me, self-care includes:
Moving my body: Exercise looks different for everyone, but for me, it’s about finding joy in movement. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or a light workout, movement is how I stay connected to my physical body and keep my energy flowing.
Nourishing my body: I’ve had to reframe how I think about food. It’s no longer about just eating what I enjoy—it’s about giving my body the nutrients it needs to thrive. This means balancing foods that support my hormones, boost my energy, and keep my skin and digestion healthy.
Rest and restoration: Sleep and downtime are priorities for me. I’ve learned that rest is as productive as any task on my to-do list. It’s how I recover, recharge, and prepare for the next day.
Soul Care: The Deeper Work
And then there’s soul care—the piece that is often overlooked but is so vital, especially in midlife. Soul care is about checking in with myself on a deeper level. Am I living in alignment with my values? Am I doing things that bring me joy? Am I making space for reflection and growth?
Some of the ways I focus on soul care are:
Mindfulness and meditation: Taking even just a few minutes a day to quiet my mind has been transformative. This practice allows me to connect with myself, listen to what my body needs, and stay grounded in the present.
Purpose and passion: As I’ve grown older, I’ve felt an even stronger pull to align my work with my purpose. Being a coach allows me to live that purpose by helping other women navigate this phase of life with clarity and confidence.
Joy and play: Midlife doesn’t mean letting go of fun. In fact, I’ve found that bringing playfulness into my life—whether it’s through hobbies, travel, or simply laughing more—has been key to keeping my spirit light.
Where Do I Go from Here?
Aging is not something to fear. It’s an invitation to deepen the relationship with myself and my body. The combination of medical care, self-care, and soul care keeps me feeling not only healthy but also empowered as I move through midlife.
I’m constantly learning and adjusting—exploring new ways to stay strong, vibrant, and aligned with what matters most. And as I look ahead, my focus remains on how I can continue to support women who, like me, are navigating these changes.