Is Middle Age a Dirty Word?
What is age, anyway? Just a number? A state of mind? A cruel joke played by the universe when you bend down to pick something up and suddenly your knees sound like a bowl of Rice Krispies?
Longevity isn’t just about living a long time—it’s about living well. And for me, that means doing what I can every day to feel vibrant and strong.
My Morning Routine: Meditation & Journaling
Before the farm, before the kids (okay, they’re mostly grown now, but still), before the endless to-do list, I take time for me. Meditation and journaling help me stay sane—because let’s be real, farming and single motherhood could have sent me in the opposite direction years ago.
Also, I mind my own business. No, really—this is essential. Nothing will age you faster than worrying about yourself *or* someone else. Worry is a slippery slope straight to wrinkles, bad digestion, and stress dreams.
Eat Well, Feel Well
Food is fuel, and what I eat dictates how I feel. My go-to? A daily salad with protein—usually animal protein—because it keeps me full, clear-headed, and ready to go. Fiber and clean protein are what I focus on getting enough of. This isn’t a diet; it’s just a habit I built over time, and now it’s as natural as pulling weeds.
Exercise: Moving to Stay Young
I’ve added a little weight training back into my exercise regimen. Strength training is key for maintaining muscle, keeping my bones strong, and making sure I can keep doing what I love for years to come. Plus, there’s nothing like the feeling of being strong—it’s empowering and keeps me feeling young.
Sleep: The Ultimate Recovery Tool
Sleep is so important—I even started tracking mine! Deep sleep is when the body restores itself, repairing muscles, strengthening the immune system, and clearing out toxins from the brain. Without enough deep sleep, we age faster, feel sluggish, and struggle with recovery.
REM sleep, on the other hand, is crucial for cementing learning and processing emotions. It’s when our brains sort through the information from the day, helping us wake up clear-headed and ready to take on the world.
I’ve learned that routines with sleep are everything, and I protect mine fiercely. I’m almost always in bed by 10 PM with a goal of at least 7 hours of sleep—sometimes even 8. Prioritizing sleep is non-negotiable for my well-being.
Supplements: Turns Out, I Need Them
For years, I thought, “I eat a healthy diet, I don’t need supplements.” Ha! Then my bloodwork told me otherwise. Turns out, I was low on Vitamin D—me, a farmer, outside every day. I couldn’t believe it. But here’s the thing: Vitamin D is crucial for:
1. Bone Health – Because I’d rather not break a hip slipping on a rogue zucchini.
2. Immune Function – A strong immune system keeps me up with my full life.
3. Mood Regulation – Vitamin D helps keep the blues away, who knew.
4. Muscle Function – Because lifting crates of tomatoes isn’t going to get easier on its own.
And get this—about 42% of Americans are Vitamin D deficient. Even those of us who spend our days outside in the sun!
So how do you get more Vitamin D?
– Sunlight exposure (but not too much)
– Fatty fish like salmon and sardines
– Egg yolks(yes, eat the yolk)
– Fortified foods like dairy or plant-based milks
– Supplements if needed (and for many of us, they are needed)
Don’t Forget Magnesium
Another common deficiency? Magnesium. It’s involved in over 300 bodily functions, including muscle recovery, sleep, and stress management. You can get magnesium from:
– Dark leafy greens (hello, daily salad!)
– Nuts and seeds
– Avocados
– Dark chocolate (yes, you read that right)
Protecting My Energy
Protecting my energy is part of my longevity plan, too. I nurture the relationships closest to me and meter out my time with friends outside my inner circle. I choose my friends wisely and steer away from energy sucks. My people-pleasing self has had to go through a bit of reformation—and let me tell you, it’s so worth it.
The Bottom Line
I’m not trying to turn back time (okay, maybe *a little*). But I *am* trying to stay strong, feel good, and live a life that’s full of energy, purpose, and maybe just a little less creaky-knee action.
Middle age? Not a dirty word. Just a new season. And with these habits, I’m planning to make the most of it.
I know being in our Baltimore County CSA isn’t going to change your life overnight, but it can be a step toward better health. When you join a CSA like Oak Spring Farm, you’re not just getting fresh, organic vegetables—you’re becoming part of a community of like-minded people who value healthy eating and local food. Building healthy habits takes time, and having a support system makes all the difference.
It takes a village, and I’m happy to share my journey with you. All I can do from here is invite you along. Want to eat better, feel better, and connect with a community that cares?
Join our CSA and take the first step today.
What’s one thing you do every day to feel your best?
Drop a comment and let’s swap tips—because we’re in this aging thing together.
Now, off to eat my salad.
Cheers,
Lisa
