I have a love/hate relationship with my age. I don’t feel my age and to most people I don’t look my age, but I admit, I’m over 40. I don’t want to get into the whole psychological discussion on how society views women and age. Its not my intent. And I know that there could be huge debates about the subject. But for some strange reason I don’t feel like shouting from the rooftop my exact age.
There are several reasons I don’t feel my age though. I do give credit to my youthful mind (or some may say immature mind). I like current fashions for younger bodies. I like music for younger ears.
Another component is genetics. Yes, I take good care of my skin, but my parents both look a lot younger than they really are. I’d say a good 10- 20 years younger.
But one of the biggest reasons why I don’t feel or maybe look as old as I am is EXERCISE & EATING RIGHT! I had to emphasize this one. You see, just because you hit a certain age doesn’t mean you have to stop caring for your body. Turning 40 doesn’t automatically make you a candidate for cholesterol lowering meds, insulin or other things like Viagra. And even if you never took care of yourself in your youth, its not too late to start getting fit.
Yes, I know its hard. And it seems impossible at times. You may think to yourself that you will need a personal chef, a personal trainer & a lot of Botox. But you really don’t need all that. All you need is a little determination, a little motivation, a little knowledge and a little commitment.
The quest shouldn’t be for the body of a 20 year old. I’ve had 4 kids. There are certain things my body is just not going to do. But I can strive to get youthful from the inside out. I’m proud to say my cholesterol and my blood pressure are at very healthy low numbers. I can run farther than I could at 20. I’m more flexible than I was in my 20s. But again, my body is no where the same body as it was. Its better in some aspects.
So what works for me? Here’s a list of things I use (or used) or things I do that give me great results:
1. Getting enough sleep
2. Washing my face every night before bed
3. Moisturizing my face & body and using sunscreen
4. Eating lots of veggies & fruits (fresh & frozen)
5. Eating whole grains when I eat grains
6. Eating lean proteins
7. Drinking lots of H2O
8. Exercise (my favorites are kettlebells, P90X, Insanity, Asylum, Brazil Butt Lift, Pilates, Yoga, walking & running)
9. Taking a multivitamin, plus additional supplements (Shakeology, melatonin (at night), Core Omega-3, acidophilus, calcium & vitamin D)
10. Staying positive
Getting in shape for 40 and beyond isn’t impossible. Again, it takes work, but all good things require a little work. Feel free to post some of your tips on staying fit at 40.
Love & light!
Jessica
