Mid-life can be a tricky time. It often feels like we’ve experienced most of what life has to offer, our routines can feel set in stone and old habits are difficult to shake. It’s important, however, to remember that these things are only true if we believe them to be. With the right strategies, you can find fresh inspiration and experience what begin life anew in what the Chinese call “The Second Spring.”
Support Your Physical Health
The first step when it comes to finding positivity in our mid-lives is to focus on maintaining physical well-being. This might mean making changes to your diet to focus on foods that love you back, exploring new ways of moving, or adopting a few stress management techniques. Take a look at how you are moving throughout your day and check out ways of including a variety of activities that include cardiovascular movement, strength, stretch and relaxation. And note that none of them have to happen in a gym or look like the fitness influencers on Instagram. Create a movement menu that nourishes YOU.
Try Mindfulness and Meditation
Engaging your body and your mind can have a powerful effect on your overall health and well-being. Mindfulness can help you get out of your head and back into your body. There are now multiple recognized forms of meditation to help you manage a range of issues, from stress and anxiety to poor concentration. Regular meditation can also lead to long-term positive changes in the brain, including increased thickness in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and emotional regulation. There are lots of free resources to learn about various techniques on apps like Insight Timer and find ones that suit you best.
If you would like guidance, join Susan McCulley for online mindful movement classes and for her offerings on Insight Timer.
Take Up Gardening
It’s difficult to overstate the positive impact that time spent in the yard can have on your mental and physical well-being. Science is showing that soil actually has a bacterium, mycobacterium vaccae, that mimics antidepressants. As well as a great way to reduce stress and anxiety and boost your self-esteem, gardening can also help to improve cardiovascular health and flexibility and strengthen muscles. Whether you want to grow vegetables for your table, flowers for the pollenators or houseplants in your apartment, getting your hands in the dirt is a great thing to do.
Become a Lifelong Learner
Learning new things is a powerful way to keep our brains and lives vibrant and interesting. Taking up a new language (there are lots of ways to learn online) is a great way to stretch your brain and your travel horizons. Learning to play an instrument fires up new connections in your brain while offering a way to connect with others. Even expanding what you read – from history to fantasy, from personal growth to mystery, from memoir to young adult novels – opens your mind and perspectives.
Going back to school for an MBA could be a smart choice if you are re-evaluating your current career path. Not only does it provide an opportunity for personal growth and fulfillment, but it can also open up a range of career options and potentially increase your earning potential. Plus, it's a chance to network and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for business and entrepreneurship. There are plenty of great, accredited online degree programs that make earning an MBA degree even with a busy schedule.
Consider Entrepreneurship
If you’re drawing stress or feelings of stagnation from your work life, it might be time to consider a change of strategy. Entrepreneurship is an increasingly viable means to earn, and it’s easier than ever to set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC). Consider what skills you love to share – whether consulting, teaching, creating art or experiences – and consider becoming your own boss. Formation services can help you to navigate regional regulations and save on lawyer fees.
Spend Time In Nature
For some of us, midlife issues can be linked to an estrangement from nature. Thankfully, a simple hike or some forest bathing or earthing can immediately provide a renewed sense of connection to the natural world, especially for those living in urban areas. Take some time to enjoy a trip to your local forest, lake, or public park and return home feeling reinvigorated.
Embrace Your New Season of Life
It’s common to feel confused during your middle years and to feel uncertain about what this time of life looks and feels like. Connecting with others at the same season or older is a way to both normalize mid-life experiences and feel less alone. Join Susan McCulley in The Age of Becoming Facebook Community for resources, experiences and connection to keep you inspired as you move into your next chapter.
Lacie Martin created RaiseThemWell.org to help inspire parents to raise their children well by prioritizing love over everything else. She firmly believes that all moms and dads raising kids who know they are loved and cared for are successful parents.