How to Stay Young (Without the Bullshit)

Real talk. No snake oil. Just a handful of things that actually make a difference—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Stay Plump

Someone once said you can never be too thin—but they clearly hadn’t met gravity after 50.As we age, fat vanishes from our faces. The plumper you are, the more youthful you’re likely to look. So yes: if you're willing to trade your bum for your face, this one works.

SPF: Wear It or Wear Regret

If my skin still gets compliments, sunscreen gets the credit. Everyday SPF isn’t high-maintenance—it’s common sense. You want the glow? Fake it. There are fake tan drops, tinted moisturisers and bronzers for that. Your dermis will thank you.

Exercise (But Don’t Be a Martyr)

Sure, metabolism used to do the heavy lifting. But that ship sails. Aerobic fitness reduces brain shrinkage. It boosts mood. It keeps the wheels turning. Lifting weights as we age supports bone strength. Move your body until it remembers how good it feels to be in it.

Feed Your Mind, Too

Chick lit makes me laugh. Philosophy makes me squint. I read both. The brain is plastic—it rewires with use. Stretch it and it stretches back. The Brain That Changes Itself is my long-term bookmark and worth the effort.

Diet (aka Be a Bit Nicer to Your Gut)

Heavy food, heavy mood. I learned the hard way. Shifting away from sugar and processed carbs has sharpened everything—thoughts included. Turns out feeling lighter isn’t about punishment—it’s about awareness.

Laugh (Loudly and Often)

Laughter floods your body with good things. Blood flow. Oxygen. Joy. It tones your face too, if you’re after a bonus. There’s nothing more attractive than someone who truly enjoys themselves.

Let Go (or Belt It Out)

Meditation? Couldn’t stick it. Singing, though—badly, loudly, earnestly—works a treat. Pick a song that makes your chest lift and let it out. It’s lighter than therapy and easier to access.

Got your own hard-earned tricks for staying sharp, sane, or just semi-upright? Drop them in the comments. Let’s crowdsource the good stuff.