I am in the final days of my forties, with my 50th birthday just around the corner. As I get closer, I have been doing a lot of reflecting. I have been googling advice and wisdom from women I admire, or look up to. One of them is Oprah. I watched an interview with her, where she talked about the wisdom she received from Maya Angelou. She told her, “The 50’s are all you were meant to be”. She explained how life is a precious gift, and it’s what we decide to do with it that matters.

I like to call this (hopefully!) halftime. It marks a point in my life where I look back at the first half of my life with appreciation. I am so grateful for all of the blessings in my life, but also for the challenges along the way. It’s the hardships that we go through after all, that really shape us. Every sorrow, setback, or misfortune is what enables us to learn important lessons that are necessary for our personal growth and transformation.

Around the age of eighteen, I had a thought, an inner voice said to me, “life gets better as you get older”. This thought became a mantra and has stayed with me. Perhaps it's a cosmic coincidence, or maybe I've simply manifested it, but I’ve found myself growing happier with each passing year. Even as life’s twists and turns continue, I've noticed a consistent pattern: with every milestone birthday—20, 30, 40, and now 50—I’ve felt a renewed sense of hope, joy and fulfillment.

With each decade, I've witnessed a deepening maturity, self-acceptance, and self-love. I've come to realize that without these essential qualities, it's impossible to show up authentically, confidently, and courageously in any aspect of life.

As I reflect on the past decades, a clear pattern emerges: ten practices that have significantly contributed to my overall well-being. These practices have nurtured my self-love, built resilience, and continue to inspire me.

I hope they will inspire you to be all you were meant to be too.

• Prioritize Moving Your Body - I am committed to moving my body every day. Find the movement that speaks to you, whether it is yoga, walking, running, dancing, joining a gym or pilates studio or anything you know you will stick with! There are so many options online too that you can enjoy in the comfort of your home.
• Choose To Eat Healthy - We have a choice on how we care for the house of our soul. What we are eating affects our energy, and our mental, emotional, and physical health. Decide today to make healthy choices! Work with a nutritionist, buy organic foods, drink lots of water, and eliminate one unhealthy choice each day.
• Get Enough Sleep - We can not give from an empty cup. Create a calm, inviting space in your bedroom. Be sure you are getting quality sleep. I feel my best when I sleep 9 hours! It’s different for each of us. Take the time to know your body and give it the rest it needs.
• Take Good Care of Your Skin - I have always had a passion for skincare, and even ended up getting my esthetician’s license! (yep it’s still active!) I wear sunscreen everyday, wash my face before bed time no matter how late it is, and use Elixer of Life products that have kept my skin healthy and radiant. I also began dry brushing in the evening, and it’s also made a huge difference.
• Ayurveda - Ayurveda, often called yoga's sister science, is an ancient holistic approach to health that emphasizes the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. Rooted in the wisdom of living in harmony with nature, Ayurveda offers personalized guidance for optimal well-being. I've found that aligning my lifestyle with the seasons, like enjoying cooling peppermint tea in summer and warming ginger tea in winter, is key to maintaining balance and feeling my best.
• Make Meditation A Must - To connect with our intuition, hear the desires of our hearts, and receive guidance from a higher power, we must cultivate inner silence. The benefits of meditation are profound—improved sleep, a calm mind, increased focus, a deeper sense of gratitude, and more reflective, less reactive behavior. I've personally experienced all of these, and I invite you to explore the transformative power of meditation for yourself.
• Self-Love Beauty Rituals - Every Saturday, I indulge in my 'Self-Love Ritual.' This morning routine includes skincare, red light therapy, meditation, and trying new products. This quiet time sets the tone for a peaceful weekend. Cultivating self-love starts with small acts of kindness towards yourself. Whether it's a pedicure, massage, skincare, makeup, or a new hairstyle, make time for a weekly beauty ritual. When we feel good about ourselves, we radiate confidence and positivity, making a positive impact on the world.
• Say Thank You First - Every morning, I begin my day with a heartfelt expression of gratitude. Before stepping out of bed, I close my eyes, connect with my breath, and fill my mind with appreciation for the blessings in my life. I remind myself of the preciousness of each new day and the importance of living with gratitude. This powerful practice raises my vibration, attracting miracles and creating a more positive reality.
• Journaling - Journaling has been a transformative tool for my mind, body, and spirit. It's a powerful outlet for emotional release, allowing me to acknowledge and process my feelings. Journaling also offers a unique opportunity for self-discovery. Through 'shadow work,' I've identified limiting beliefs and negative self-talk that were hindering my growth. To experience the benefits of journaling, keep a journal by your bedside and make it a priority to write at least once a week.
• Protect Your Energy - As a sensitive being, I've learned the importance of protecting my energy. Empaths can absorb the emotions of others, like sponges. To create a shield of protection, I visualize myself surrounded by a radiant white (or blue) light. This practice is especially helpful before leaving home, attending social events, or even stepping into the car. Here's a simple prayer for protection you can try today.