Sometime in your mid-to-late forties, you come up for air and realize that 50 is around the corner.  Maybe that milestone has passed and you are heading toward 60.

This may be the time that your kids are getting ready to go off to college, your parents are aging and need more care, and your romantic relationships have shifted.   Stress feels like the new normal.  

You usually find that you have a few aches and pains and that your body just isn't as resilient as it once was. If you feel great, life is just how you like it, and all is well, congratulations!  You are very lucky and I wish you continued health and happiness.  

If you are feeling off, a bit depressed, not thrilled with the way your energy levels are, or how you feel in your clothes, then you have a choice.  This is the time to seriously take stock of lifestyle habits and make some changes.

Like the typical "mid-life crisis" in men, women may also need to evaluate what makes them happy at this time in their lives and begin thinking about their purpose.  Purpose is vital for a long, healthy and happy, life.

Here are known and researched tips to keep mind, body, and spirit in optimal shape!

1.     Set aside quiet time every morning. 

Meditate, pray, visualize your day. Read something that inspires you. I get up before everyone else, make coffee, unpack dishes, and read.  It isn't possible to go much longer than 15 minutes but it is worth it. 

2.     Get plenty of exercise.   

It builds strong bones. keeps you trim, and helps your mindset.  You are welcome to try some videos on my website and on my YouTube channel.  I love to experiment with different activities like hiking, biking, weight training, yoga, etc.  I wouldn't concern yourself too much with the perfect exercise unless you have a specific body image you are trying to attain. (That's for a different blog post or contact me and we can discuss). This is about finding something that you enjoy and will be consistent with.

3.     Be optimistic. 

Take time to understand what you want out of life. Find purpose and meaning. Then spread the joy to others.  Your day will feel inspired!

4.     Set up a sleep schedule and take it seriously.  

 Sorry, but the body does not recover quickly at this stage.  Sleep is a priority for hormones, cognitive function, and energy!  I love a good Netflix binge (On the Verge starring Julie Delpy, is my current recommendation) but when the clock strikes 11:30 pm it is lights off for me.  

5.     Eat colorful foods. 

It's important for women over 50 to eat lots of fiber- filled veggies and fruits.  Fatty fish like salmon, sardines and anchovies will provide you with heart healthy, Omega 3's.  Learn to love whole grains, lentils, and skinless lean protein.  (If I do not pre-cook on the weekends, I tend to eat very hit and miss.)  Anyone else feel too tired to cook at 6? 

When you eat sweets, be present, enjoy it, and keep it to a minimum.  When you use oils, lean toward the good ones, like extra-virgin olive oil.

6.  Find a creative outlet. 

Creativity helps prevent depression and keeps your brain sharp.  Take up painting. Create a wonderful garden.(Look for my interview on Youtube with a compost specialist coming in October) I am taking a singing class with other people over 50.  It's free at Santa Monica College.  Many colleges offer free classes for people over 50.

7.  Make your home an oasis. 

Eliminate clutter. Fill your home with great music, books, and friends. Withdraw and recharge when you need to.  If you are anything like me, you have waited to fix up a room or buy a piece of furniture, guess what, time is moving on so make a plan to finish your projects and be the person that you have imagined.   

8.  Associate with positive-focused people. 

Have you ever felt your energy drain right out of you when you are surrounded by complainers?  I love to surround myself with people who have a zest for life at every age.  You are bound to build one another up and offer support when needed.  

9.  Have fun. 

Go boating, skiing, dancing -- whatever makes you happy.  Maybe join a Meet-Up group.  Of course, make sure that you are not reckless but do not give up on trying new things.  

Now onto the more serious tasks:  

Get cancer screenings

I put my big girl pants on today and had my 1st colonoscopy.  Colon cancer is a sneaky devil but can be caught early which can make all the difference in the outcome.  Yes, the prep was not fun but it was doable.  Breast screening with mammograms can do the same.  

Get an annual checkup. 

It is always a wise idea to know your blood pressure, cholesterol and have your blood tested.  If you feel depressed, ask about speaking with a therapist.  Do a skin cancer check and don't forget to take care of your teeth.

I hope you have the opportunity to incorporate a few of these suggestions into your life.  As always, I would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions on how to have the healthiest, happiest, and most purposeful years of your life.  

xo Jamie