Healthy Living In Our 40’s And Beyond!

It’s hard for me to believe that I recently turned 48. Ouch! But one thing I’m trying to do is stay healthy. It’s not about being skinny, it’s about feeling my best. So today I thought we’d talk about healthy living in our 40’s and beyond.

The reason I thought we’d talk about our health is because of a picture I saw of myself in 2012. First, what the heck was I thinking with that pose! Let’s have a good laugh and move on.

Healthy Living In Our 40's And Beyond!
I noticed I was heavier in 2012. (This is also a perfect picture showing why crop pants are not attractive.) It was right after this, that I really started to make changes in my lifestyle. I realized eating M&M’s for breakfast was starting to wear on me. Anybody with me?

My hormones were out of whack. I was tired all the time and my clothes were feeling a little snug.

I slowly started making changes to my eating habits. I started looking at what I was putting in my body and it’s been an eye opening two years.

Here’s a few things I’ve done over the last two years.

1. I started clean eating. When I first started I jumped and I went a little crazy with it. I still like to “clean eat” as much as possible but I don’t always. I give myself some grace. I try to eat organic as much as possible. I eat healthier snacks and I’ve cut back on sugar. I haven’t eliminated it but I don’t eat M&M’s for breakfast.

2. I cut diet coke out completely. I loved my diet coke but I knew it wasn’t good for me. I will drink a coke every once in a while (popcorn and a coke at the movie theatre is a must for me.) I don’t ever use artificial sweeteners.

3. I got serious about exercising regularlyI’m not a hard core exerciser. I do it because I know it’s good for me but after looking at the 2012 picture, I think the exercise has helped and I definitely feel better when I do it.

4. I use essential oils. I know there’s a ton of hype about essential oils on the internet right now (it’s because they’re wonderful!) but I started using them before all the hype. They’ve been a huge help with my hormones. I didn’t want to start taking hormone replacement therapy and thanks to my essential oils, I don’t have to. I use them everyday!

(Using essential oils does not  mean I don’t go to the doctor. I go for all my check ups, pap smear, blood work, mammogram etc.)

These are some of my tips for feeling healthier, have you done anything that has helped you feel and look better? 

Beauty For the Heart~~So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

Have a blessed day!

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  1. Cyndi,
    I am also 48 & have put on some weight. I feel tired all the time & I work a 40+ hr job them come home & take care of my family. I never have enough time in the day to get things done & eat healthy. Exercise…I always think about it but never have the time. I am going to make the time not only for myself but for my family. You look great. You talked about essential oils. Can you tell me some of the ones you use? I love your blog & the styles you post.

  2. Cyndi, I really like your blog, but no to crop pants?! I’m 42, and I have embarrassing veins that I will not show. Crop pants are a lifesaver for me in the summer-they really make a difference in my heat level. Plus, I’m tall, and it is difficult for me to find “off the rack” regular length pants. Any hope for me?! Thanks for your real life style, love it.

  3. I’m lovin’ this site and the connection to women my own age (47). Will start Jillian Michael’s 30 Day Shred DVD tomorrow and work up from there. Reducing refined sugar and increasing fiber is my goal for now. I do not eat enough veggies!

  4. Thank you for timely reminder
    I woke up at fifty three and none of my clothes fit!
    Be ready girls our bodies change and weigh is not easy to get off!
    My key was exercise ! I’m sure change eating helped but had to get moving! Praise God lighter on my feet now!

  5. #Whole30 !! At the suggestion of my 25-yr-old daughter, we did the Whole30 challenge together last month. It was hard but not impossible. I TOTALLY recommend it! It’s not about loosing weight (although I lost 8 lbs in 30 days), it’s about knowing what you’re eating, knowing and then cutting out what doesn’t agree with you, sleeping better, having more energy, and really (I mean really!) tasting your food. Check it out … it’s all over the internet and lots of great recipes on Pinterest!

  6. There’s a drink I have found at the grocery store called Zevia. It’s a cola with no sugar and no Artificial sweeteners. It’s not as good as diet coke or diet dr pepper but when I’m craving some fizz, this is a good alternative. Hope that helps!! Cyndi
    **I think it comes in a diet dr pepper flavor too.

  7. Hi Dinah!! I love following you on IG. I love your style!!
    Diet coke was hard for me too, but once you do it, it gets easier.
    There’s a drink I have found at the grocery store called Zevia. It’s a cola with no sugar and no Artificial sweeteners. It’s not as good as diet coke but when I’m craving some fizz, this is a good alternative. Hope that helps!! Cyndi

  8. Hi Cyndi – I haven’t commented before but really enjoy your blog. I am 47 and am also trying to make some of the same changes – esp giving up Diet Coke. It is SO hard but I know the artificial sweeteners are just bad. I’ve also recently started oils for sinus probs – am interested to find out more for perimenopausal symptoms. Thanks for sharing on the blog!
    Dinah @stylishprofessor on IG

  9. Hi Cyndi,
    I too am over 40 and gave up processed flour & sugars about 5 months ago.

    Last summer I had what I thought was a shoulder problem and it sidelined me from my regular exercise classes. It ended up being a neck issue and I had surgery this past December that was quite extensive. Anyhow, not being back at the gym was killing me physically and I was having that 2:00 sluggish feeling, so I had blood work done (extremely low vitamin D). Something had to change.

    I began natural vitamin D and cut out the flour and sugar. My one downfall in this is that I did go back to drinking Diet Dr. Pepper (I hadn’t had diet soda in a year or so). Do you know of other alternatives besides water and iced tea that have a little flavor? After giving up flavored creamer (the one thing I actually miss) I just needed a calorie free something to drink. Are there other options without the chemicals (which is why I gave up the diet in the first place…I know the chemicals are awful).
    Thanks,
    Ruth

  10. I know this sounds crazy but for menopause symptoms I put the oils on the insides of my feet. I’ll explain it this week.
    BLessings,
    Cyndi

  11. There’s lots of information through Young Living. If you sign up under me, I’ll add you to the Oily Family Facebook group and my personal Oily Sisters facebook group.
    Hope that helps!
    Cyndi

  12. Hey Jodi,
    I lack in the cardio area!! I walk but that is probably not enough. I’m hoping to do better but I have to admit I don’t love to exercise. I do it because I know it’s good for me. 🙂
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  13. Hi Cyndi!
    Would you share what you do for your cardio exercise — or are you mostly just strength training & clean eating?
    I enjoy your blog!

  14. I’m looking forward to hearing about how you use the oils. I bought some to try for my hot flashes, but the smell is quite strong and since I always wear perfume, I’m afraid to use them in the daytime. I would love to hear where and when you apply yours. Thanks!

  15. Hi Cyndi,
    You look fabulous. You’re beautiful inside & out. I know what you mean about wacky hormones. I’ve been battling getting them balanced for the last 10 years. It is really a trial & error process.
    I’ve followed your posts about the Essential Oils and am very interested in trying them. When you sign on to be a consultant/distributor is there any training on what oils to use for different things?
    Missy

  16. You look amazing, Cyndi — obviously your healthier choices are paying off! It’s so humbling when you realize you’ve slipped into less than healthy routines and your body can’t handle it anymore! Wonderful encouragement to be intentional about our choices without being crazy. 🙂 TGIF!
    xo Heidi

  17. Hi Cyndi – I look forward to hearing about the essential oils. I have also heard that there are several you can use for weight loss. If you could include that in your post, I would be grateful. Love to read your blog everyday.

  18. I am like all the others here. You need to do several post on essential oils. I am confused about. Which ones are for what, how often do you use them, etc.?

  19. Hi Cyndi-
    Thanks for the inspiration! We are the same age…. I turned 48 in June. I was doing well with eating and giving up Diet Coke and have slid. I know what I need to do! and appreciate the reminder.
    All my best!
    Therese

  20. Hey Cindy,
    I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    NOW, about the diet pepsi. 🙂 Quit it cold turkey. I know it’s hard but I promise, it’s worth it. Once you stop for a few months, you won’t like the taste anymore. I feel so much better since I stopped drinking them.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  21. Hi Tracey, I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  22. Hi Sandi, I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  23. Thanks Cyndi! I really appreciate your post. I will be 46 in October and I am going to take your cue and get healthy. I’m going to start making small changes. I HAVE to stop my diet pepsi addiction.. any advice on this one??? Since I have small kiddos (yes, at my age 😉 I want them to learn about health and not battle like I have over the years! Also, looking forward to your oil post. Just last week I got the Young Living kit in the mail!

  24. I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use for anxiety next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  25. Hey Sharla, I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  26. Hey Lisa, I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  27. There are other oils that can help. I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  28. Hi Nancy, I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  29. Hey Kathy, I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  30. Hey Amy, I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  31. Hey Susan,
    I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  32. Natalia I think you would love these oils! They really have helped me with hormone issues.
    You’re much younger then me and I wish I had had them when I was having PMS.
    Let me know if I can help!!
    Cyndi

  33. Mary I’ve only lost around 6 or 7 pounds. But when I gain 5 pounds it shows. I don’t hide my weight very will like some people do.
    Thank you for stopping by!
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  34. You my friend look fabulous at forty!!!! I loved your post yesterday about depression. We need to share our stories.
    Bless you!
    Cyndi

  35. Richella you know I believe in medical care. It has saved many lives!!
    But I do think the oils have helped me with menopause.I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  36. Hi Lauren,
    I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  37. Glad I am not the only one with questions! I will be 46 in October and have really struggled lately. I have always been very small and have suddenly developed high blood pressure. The medicine has caused a twenty pound weight gain (which is crazy to me). I would also love more info on essential oils. Thanks so much!

  38. Try the oils first! 🙂
    I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  39. Hi Diana,
    I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  40. Hi Amy,
    I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do. She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  41. Hi Becky!
    I’m going to address the hormone issues and the oils I use next week. Essential oils have been such a help to me.
    We each have to decide the best course of action for our health. Even my OBGYN said she couldn’t tell me what to do.
    She gave me the information on estrogen and then said it was my decision.
    I chose to go the natural route which has no side effects. It’s worked for me! My OBGYN was thrilled that it worked.
    Blessings,
    Cyndi

  42. It looks like not only do we enjoy your fashion advice, we are all now needing your help and information on how we too can find relief with our raging hormones with the use of essential oils and suggestions on clean eating as I love how you said it’s not about being skinny, but being healthy. Can you give us suggestions on how you got started and what path you took to getting healthy. I know the exercise part of it, it’s the food part that I need help with. How does one know if they should be eating gluten free? Oh Cyndi, we all have so many questions and thank you in advance for any light you can shed on these topics since what you are doing seems to be working for you. You look amazing with the changes you’ve made in two years.

  43. I’m on the same path Cyndi. I’ve lost 20 lbs and feel so much better. A back problem had kept me away from any serious exercise but I’m back on track now.
    I would love another post on essential oils. For me it would have to be one to “quiet” myself…I know anxiety can do great damage to my health.
    I enjoy your blog so much Cyndi.
    Thanks for sharing

  44. Add me to the list of those interested in hearing which essential oils you use to balance your hormones. I have raging hot flashes, and so far nothing has helped to reduce the severity or frequency. At a conference, someone recommended to me Balance, Clary Calm, and Clary Sage, and as much as I use them, there is no marked difference.

  45. Like all these other gals who have commented, I’d like to be educated on essential oils also, not just for hormones but for weight management, health issues, etc. Can you recommend a good and reliable place for us all to begin? You look wonderfully healthy CIndi!

  46. I love my essential oils. I’ve recently cut out taking an allergy pill everyday (I’ve done this for the last 5 years) with the use of essential oils. I’m working my way through other ailments, one at a time. You are an inspiration!

  47. Hi Cyndi,
    I think you look great in both pictures. (Point noted on the crop pants though. ) The important thing is that you are feeling healthier than ever. I am turning 44 this year and made several changes a few years ago to my eating and exercise habits. I cut out most sugar, simple carbs, and am trying to eat cleaner. I have lost a ton of weight and feel better than ever. I am also taking less medication than ever. I have just started using essential oils myself and love them (especially peppermint and lavender). I am with the other ladies and would love to her more about the ones you use for hormone regulation. Keep doing what you are doing and thank you so much for all the things you share on here. Your posts definitely make a difference.
    Blessings,
    Kathy

  48. You look great. Whatever you are doing seems to be working. I use moderation and feel that is the key (for me).

  49. I am interested in trying essential oils but feel very intimidated by them as I have no idea how to use them. Would love for you to share how you use the oils and which ones . Especially intrigued by the use of them for hormones.

  50. I think the key is that you started slowly to make changes. Because it isn’t a program but a way of life. I found that shopping at the local farmers market is a good way to eat seasonally, because that ensures that I am eating the freshest produce. They also grow organically and I can support local businesses. Way to model a healthy after 40 lifestyle. Do you ever share meal plan ideas or recipes? Thank you. Beth

  51. hi cyndi, you look great! good for you for being proactive with your health. would love to hear more about essential oils.
    thank you so much for being honest and open about your life. i look forward to your daily posts. they are informative, inspiring and fun as well.

  52. I feel ya, I did a cleanse earlier this year and it was great. Unfortunately I’ve gone back to some (not all!) of the bad eating habits and i know I need to make a change! I also really really want to get into essential oils but have no clue where to start!! I’ve used them in some of my face stuff I make but besides that, I have no clue!

  53. you look amazing. and you are right…the 40’s are hard. but feeling fit is so much of the battle. our bodies are our temples…they NEED to be cared for! xo

  54. Cyndi, you do indeed look healthier now than in 2012! I’m so glad for you. I need to follow your lead. I’m much too cavalier about what I eat, and I know it’s not good for me.

    I, too, am interested in hearing what you’re doing with essential oils. I appreciate that you use them in addition to sensible medical care. There really is SO much hype about them–but I’d like to hear more about particular uses for them, such as how they’ve helped you with your hormones.

  55. Thanks for being so candid. I had gained quite a bit of weight after turning 40, and finally was diagnosed last year with a thryroid problem, adrenal depletion and a high gluten sensitivity. We are still working on regulating my thyroid, and I know it will take time…but the hormones have gotten worse. My doctors are all about natural alternatives. Would love if you would share what you are doing.

  56. I love this post! I’ve been doing the same…adding cutting sugar, processed foods and gluten. My stomach has thanked me. I’ve lost almost 30 pounds since Easter….and feeling better than ever!

    Keep it up my dear!
    ❤️
    Kim

  57. You are so classy. I would love to know what oils you use, I am 54 and definitely don’t want to take hormones. My doctor prescribed them but I am scared to take them.

    ~ Lisa ~

  58. As sensitive and intimate a subject as it is I think it would be a wonderful post to hear about your journey with essential oils and hormones. We all are so different and how we experience and overcome this chapter in our lives. It is so easy to throw a pill at it and call it good (not that it isn’t a valid solution for many) but it would be informative to hear about others journeys thru this maze. I know for myself I am not hearing much from my doctor except two solutions…forge the path with nothing or take a hormone. I can’t be the only one!!! Education is powerful.

  59. Is there an essential oil you use for hormones out whack? Do you have a daily routine with the oils?
    Thanks,
    Becky