Why Wellness Matters More Than Ever
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more aware of the everyday things that quietly chip away at our health—and one of the biggest culprits is endocrine disruptors. These are chemicals found in many common household and personal care products, and they can interfere with our hormones in ways that lead to inflammation, fatigue, mood swings, and even long-term health problems.
Hormones are already shifting in midlife, and I don’t want to add fuel to that fire. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to remove as many endocrine disruptors from my home as I can.
Read more...Why Wellness Matters More Than Ever
If there’s one thing I’ve learned on this wellness journey, it’s this: what we put into our bodies has a direct impact on how we feel—physically, mentally, and even emotionally. In midlife, that impact becomes even more noticeable. I don’t have the same margin I did in my twenties to skip meals, load up on sugar, or live off caffeine and convenience food. My body is asking for something better—and I’m learning to listen.
2. Nourishing Nutrition: Fueling a Body That’s Built to Last
Let’s start with PROTEIN. I used to think of it as something bodybuilders cared about. Now I know it’s essential for all of us—especially women as we get older. Protein helps us build and maintain muscle, which is key for staying strong, protecting our bones, and keeping our metabolism steady. My goal is 1 gram of protein per pound of ideal body weight each day, or at the very least, 30 grams at every meal. It takes planning, but it’s worth it.
Read more...When I think about the kind of life I want as I get older, it’s not about being skinny or fitting into a certain size. It’s about being strong, capable, and independent for as long as possible. I want to get out of my kayak without help when I’m 70. I want to crawl around with my grandkids and actually be able to get back up off the floor. That kind of freedom doesn’t just happen—it’s something I have to work for now.
That’s why daily movement has become one of my non-negotiables.
1. Daily Movement: Building Strength For the Life You Want
Walking has become my go-to form of exercise. Ideally, I aim for 7,000 to 10,000 steps a day—not because it’s trendy, but because it’s one of the simplest ways to care for my body. Even if I don’t hit that goal every day, just getting up and moving throughout the day makes a big difference. Walking, especially at a pace that keeps me in Zone 2 cardio, which is 60–70% of my max heart rate (maximum heart is 220 minus your age), is gentle but powerful. It helps balance blood sugar, especially after meals, and it keeps my body limber and energized.
Read more...Wellness is something I’m truly passionate about.
My health journey has had its share of ups and downs, and I’ve worked hard to support and improve my overall well-being. Now that I’m in midlife, that desire to feel good and stay strong is more important to me than ever.
I want to feel good as I get older—not just okay, but strong and capable. I don’t want to struggle to get off the couch. I don’t want to feel unsteady on my feet. I want to kayak, hike, travel, and enjoy making memories with my family without my body holding me back. That’s why I’m making intentional choices now—not to chase a swimsuit body, but to invest in my old lady body. Because what I do today will either support or limit what I’m able to do tomorrow.
Read more...My Personal Journey Toward Nontoxic Living
In the first post of this series, I shared how I used to believe that being healthy was all about diet and exercise. But as I learned more, I realized that the everyday products I was using—things I never even questioned—were filled with harmful toxins that were burdening my body. That discovery changed everything. I swapped out my toxic candles for a diffuser with high-quality essential oils, replaced chemical-laden cleaners with plant-based alternatives, and switched to nontoxic body products and makeup. The results were undeniable—our home felt fresher, the air was cleaner, and my body felt healthier. My body wasn’t fighting itself anymore and my autoimmune disease went into remission. Looking back, I only wish I had made these changes sooner.
How to Start Reducing Toxins in Your Home
Switching to nontoxic products doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small with these simple steps:
- Swap plastic containers for glass or stainless steel (mason jars are a great food storage option)
- Choose personal care items that are scented with pure essential oils
- Use plant based household cleaners for cleaning instead of chemical sprays
- Buy organic when possible to reduce pesticide exposure
- Open windows regularly for better indoor air quality
