7 Reasons Getting Older Is Good For Your Wellbeing!

Ageing doesn’t need to be dreaded, it’s actually a privilege we’re starting to make the most of, says Andréa Childs

There comes a day when we realise we don’t need to buy into the myth of middle age. Maybe it’s when we realise our yoga-honed body is stronger than ever, chair a meeting and don’t feel like an imposter, or wake up feeling focused, happy and in control. “Women in their forties and beyond are pioneers of modern ageing. Like icons Jo Whiley, Davina McCall and Lorraine Kelly, we’re not prepared to fade into invisibility,” says Rebecca Rhodes, founder of SuperHuman, a marketing agency that presents the value of women in their prime to the brands that routinely ignore them. “Our research shows that 67% of women in this age group feel more confident than they did 10 years ago, and 63% are optimistic about the future.” We are game changers in the world of wellness. Here’s why…

1 MENTAL FOCUS IMPROVES

By the time we get to our forties, we’ve either honed our ambitions or we’re ready for round two. Knowing what we want to achieve – a career change, dinner on the table by 7pm – can bring clarity. “Staying on task and being able to focus makes you feel strong, smart and aware. We get distracted when we’re bored, sad, mad or confused,” says ageing expert Dr Julie Schwartzbard. Goal-setting is key. “When we write down our goals, the chances of achieving them are enhanced. If we’re excited, challenged and adrenalised about our goal, we will keep working on it,” says Felice Shapiro, founder of betterafter50.com. “Make it doable and challenging, have someone to help you keep on track, monitor your progress and celebrate your successes.”

2 SELF- CONSCIOUSNESS DISAPPEARS