As I’ve gotten older, I’ve struggled with the visible signs of aging—wrinkles that seem to appear overnight and the grey hairs that have slowly overtaken my once-dark locks, which I wasn’t quite ready for. In fact, I didn’t even notice the wrinkles until this past year. They’ve slowly started to change my face, even though my body hasn’t slowed down. I’m learning, day by day, that aging is a natural part of life, and these marks are reminders of the experiences and stories that have shaped me. And believe me, there’s a story behind every wrinkle. Through writing these blogs and sharing my journey with aging and menopause, I hope to gradually embrace the beauty that comes with age.

As a wellness practitioner, I’m not perfect—I have my struggles too—but I’m on this path of self-acceptance, just like everyone else.

Aging is a journey, one we all inevitably embark on, though the way we experience it can vary dramatically. As the years go by, our bodies change, our priorities shift, and sometimes, it’s easy to feel like we’re losing touch with the vibrant energy we once had. But what if getting older didn’t have to mean feeling worn down or stagnant? What if, instead, aging could be a celebration of vitality, a time to embrace the strength and wisdom that comes with experience? That’s the essence of what I’ve discovered in the concept of Virya—the energy and vitality that resides in each of us, no matter our age.

As I’ve grown older, I’ve realized that the key to aging well isn’t found in avoiding change or desperately trying to hold on to youth, but in cultivating the Virya within—nurturing both our physical and mental well-being. It's about finding a balance between honoring where we are in life and tapping into the limitless potential we have for growth and vitality. The idea that we can live fully, with energy and purpose, regardless of age, has become a guiding principle in my own health journey.

One of the most profound shifts I’ve made in recent years is the understanding that health isn’t just about fitness or diet. It’s about a whole person health approach—nourishing the body, mind, and spirit. I’ve learned that staying active is not just about hitting the gym or doing high-intensity workouts; it’s about moving with intention, whether that’s through yoga, daily walks, or simply stretching to keep the body fluid and strong. Even the smallest movements can have a profound impact on how we feel, both physically and mentally.

Nourishing my body with whole, nutrient-rich foods has become a form of self-care that goes beyond just eating for sustenance. Each meal is an opportunity to fuel my body with the nutrients it needs to stay energized, strong, and healthy. It’s a vital tool to support my well-being.

Mental health plays an equally significant role in this journey. I’ve come to understand that mindfulness and meditation aren’t just for moments of stress or anxiety; they are practices that help me stay grounded in the present, fostering peace and clarity. Embracing my age means accepting the ebb and flow of emotions, and giving myself permission to rest when needed—because rest is just as powerful as action.

Perhaps the most important shift, though, has been embracing my own inner vitality—my Virya. With each passing year, I’ve come to realize that age does not define my worth or my energy. Every stage of life offers a new opportunity to learn, grow, and continue evolving. The vitality I feel is not about fighting aging, but rather celebrating the richness it brings. It’s about finding joy in the little moments, in the ways my body has learned to move with grace, in the wisdom I’ve gained, and in the people I choose to surround myself with.

Getting older doesn’t mean slowing down; it means finding new rhythms and ways to nourish yourself that honor where you are. It’s about tapping into the energy that is still very much alive inside us and living fully, with purpose and enthusiasm. Life doesn’t stop at a certain age—it can become even more vibrant and meaningful as we continue to embrace our Virya, the vitality that is always within us.

So, here’s to aging with grace, vitality, and an open heart. Here’s to the journey of embracing life at every stage, knowing that the best is yet to come.

Join me this year and beyond as I share my personal journey of embracing the physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges that come with aging. Together, we’ll explore the complexities of growing older and discover the beauty in every step of the process.