My life in somatopause

MANILA, Philippines - At this age, I am already quite comfortable in my own skin. I am already definite about what I like and don’t like.

Having said that, I also acknowledge that there are certain changes that women at my age can’t help but deal with. So while we already sweat the small stuff, we also become more mindful of the choices we make, especially when it comes to food and lifestyle. We may be past the insecurities of youth, but we also have to face the realities of aging.

For example, a slower metabolism is not just a figment of one’s imagination, but the norm, that is, unless you have a regular fitness regimen. And if you can survive with very little or no sleep in your teens or early 20s, lack of sleep at this age will immediately manifest its unflattering effects on your skin and energy level.

This is why I take my vitamins and supplements religiously. I find the multivitamin supplement Immuvit, for example, very helpful especially now that I have a busier schedule. It gives the maximum amount of health benefits that women at my age need with its unique combination of two powerful ginsengs — Siberian and Korean — and the antioxidants in CoQ10. It helps keep me youthful-looking and energized.

I also take Poten-Cee, probiotics, and Omega-3 and supplements like fresh wheatgrass, acai berry, and Cilium Fiber, which I take only after my last meal and never together with my vitamins.

Weekly facials have also become part of my routine since wearing makeup comes with my job. I stay out of the sun as much as I can and likewise use my eye cream religiously. Like with the vitamins and supplements I take, I am also very mindful of what I put in my body. Like most women my age perhaps, I am forever reading labels and product briefs because I want to make informed choices.

I am just as mindful when it comes to food. I have been eating brown rice for quite a few years now and have a better appreciation for fruits and vegetables. I like “juicing” and I try to munch on healthy snacks like dried and fresh fruits and nuts.

When it comes to full meals, I just eat what I want, but in the appropriate portions. I once read that our stomach is just about the size of a big fist and we are supposed to put just that much food into it at a time, too.

I try to think of this when I am tempted to go on a binge. I also try to always eat fruits first instead of last, as is the norm. I read that they have to be consumed first over fish or meat because they are easier to digest.

Sticking to a regular fitness regimen can likewise do wonders in keeping you fit physically and mentally, and I am very lucky to have found one that does not feel like a chore at all.

When I dance or do yoga, I feel totally carefree and energized. I feel like a child again. I feel so good about myself and my life and circumstance that I actually feel I can take on anything. The natural high it gives me is the reason why I keep going back to it. It makes for a very happy space for me.

And speaking of keeping mentally fit, let me just say that having enough sleep helps a lot. If you have that in the bag, then staying mentally alert is not a problem. 

I can say that I have also become quite an expert at taking naps whenever I can. Grabbing a quick doze really helps a lot when you have many responsibilities to attend to in a day.

Just as important as paying more attention to your body is paying attention to your relationships—both at work and at home. The world being so small and all, the very people you meet on your way up are also the ones you will meet on your way down. I also strongly believe that you will not go wrong when you are grounded in the right values. 

Family is also very important. I cannot say that often enough. The world can go all crazy, but as long as you have a family to go home to, a family to anchor you, you have a safe haven.