Somewhere along the way wellness can start to feel complicated. But, it doesn't need to be that way. What if the most important things are simple?

After 40, the basics matter more than ever, and they're often the things we overlook.

  1. Protein: Maintaining muscle becomes increasingly important as we age. Instead of focusing on eating less, think about eating enough of the right foods, especially protein. (check my earlier article about Why Protein Matters).
  2. Strength Training: Walking is wonderful and needed for your health. However, muscles need a different kind of challenge. Strength training helps to support muscle, strength, balance and independence. You don't need to spend hours at the gym. Consistency matters more than complexity. Get some hand weights and do this at home. 
  3. Sleep: We tend to treat sleep as something we can catch up on later. However, quality sleep is an important part of overall wellness. Creating a calming evening routing, limiting late-day caffeine and giving yourself enough time to unwind and rest can make a big difference.
  4. Movement: You don't need to become a marathon runner to be active. Walking, stretching, gardening, dancing, hiking, yoga and simply getting up and moving throughout the day all count! The goal isn't perfection - it's avoiding a lifestyle where sitting becomes the default.
  5. Hydration: Sometimes feeling tired or sluggish can be a reminder to drink more water. And, if you can add minerals to your water to keep you hydrated (especially after a workout or intense outdoor activity), even better. Make hydration a part of your daily routine rather than something you remember only when you're thirsty. Keep water nearby at all times!
  6. Take Care of You: This might be the most overlooked wellness basic of all. We spend years taking care of everyone else - our children, partners, families, careers and responsibilities. At some point, taking care of yourself needs to become part of that equation. Not because you're being selfish. Because YOU matter, too.

Wellness doesn't have to be complicated! Start with the basics such as eat well, get enough protein, move your body, build strength, sleep, hydrate and make time for yourself. Build from here, because feeling your best after 40 isn't about doing everything perfectly. It's about doing the things that matter for your wellness consistently.

Best in Health and Wellness,

Emilia