What’s Actually Helping Me Feel My Best at 46

spoiler alert...it's not more protein

This summer, I had the privilege of taking some time off from my responsibilities and focusing on just me and my family. It was the first time in a long time where I could truly slow down, reconnect with my family, and actually prioritize my health and well-being—something I didn’t even realize I’d been putting on the back burner.

I’ve always considered myself a fairly healthy person. But looking back over the past year, I can see the cracks. Restless nights. Anxiety creeping in more than I’d like. Looking in the mirror and not quite recognizing the woman staring back. My body felt heavier. My clothes fit tighter. None of it felt extreme on its own—but together? It added up to me feeling like a dulled-down version of myself.

And I know I’m not alone in this. Midlife has a way of waking us up.

This summer gave me the gift of slowing down and starting fresh. I’m ending it feeling stronger, clearer, and more grounded than I’ve felt in years. My body feels energized, my heart feels open, and for the first time in a long while, I feel at peace.

Some of this has come from long-standing practices - like sobriety and meditation. Others are brand new to me (hello, NAD). I’m not sharing any of this as a prescription. Rather, I just want to plant a seed - that if you’re not feeling great in your skin right now, you’re not broken, you’re definitely not alone, and that it is possible to feel good again.