Turning 60 has changed how I approach my health, not in dramatic ways, but in deliberate ones. My healthy habits after 60 are definitely more intentional and I feel good for it.
I finished my nutrition studies around 11 years ago and while I’ve had the knowledge since graduating, my understanding now is deeper. Not just of what supports health, but of how easily it becomes a way of life when you’re intentional with your choices.
Over time, I’ve seen how quickly we can fall into habits, routines and social situations simply because they’re there, not because they truly serve us. And I’m far more aware now of the difference between living on autopilot and choosing with purpose.
I make different decisions about how I eat, how I work, how I rest and who I spend my time with. Not out of restriction or rigidity, but because these choices shape how I feel day to day. And I like feeling good!
I no longer feel the need to apologise for these shifts!
Here are a few things I do differently now…and why.
Healthy Habits After 60: What I Do Differently Now (And Why I Don’t Apologise for It)
1. I eat to feel well, not to follow rules
Despite being a nutritionist, I’m not obsessed with eating well if it means extremes or following trends that are not practical.
I prioritise meals that support my energy, ensure good digestion, help me build muscle and above all, ensure blood sugar stability. I know how foundational those things are for long-term health.
That means:
- Enough protein with every meal and I don’t shy from eating meat daily.
- Plenty of vegetables…aiming for 7-a-day!
- Healthy fats; oily fish, nuts, seeds, avocado are all regular choices
- Intermittent fasting suits me, but ensuring nutritious regular meals within this.
I eat in a way that supports my life, not complicates it. And I don’t chase perfection, even though I know many are watching because I’m a nutritionist!.
2. I move for strength and longevity, not punishment
Movement is no longer about burning calories or earning food. Far from it!
It’s about:
- Maintaining muscle
- Supporting bone health
- Staying mobile, strong and capable
I choose movement that feels sustainable and supportive, not exhausting or depleting. I live an active life and it is important to me not to sabotage this way of life.
3. I work at a pace that supports my health
This might be the biggest shift.
I still care deeply about my work, but I no longer equate constant output with value. I love what I do and therefore don’t find it stressful but I no longer worry about slow, less motivated periods. I simply switch up what I’m doing and this change is sometimes all I need.
Chronic stress affects hormones, digestion, sleep and resilience. I’ve seen it clinically and very conscious of the fallout.
4. I don’t drink and I’m not only comfortable with that, I’m grateful.
This isn’t about discipline or rules, it’s about how I want to feel. I understand the impact alcohol has on sleep, mood, energy, hormones and overall resilience, particularly as we get older. I’m lucky, I’ve never been a drinker but I truly belifeve the trade-off simply isn’t worth it.
I’ve also noticed that I now prefer to avoid social situations where alcohol is the main focus. It’s not that I’m antisocial, far from it! But those environments often lack the depth and connection I value more at this stage of life.
I’m far more drawn to gatherings and conversations that feel meaningful, nourishing and present. And I no longer apologise for choosing spaces…and people that reflect that.
5. I protect my sleep like it matters (because it does)
Sleep isn’t optional at this stage; it’s essential.
I’m more aware of how exercise, caffeine timing, alcohol and late (particularly heavy) meals affect my sleep quality. And I make choices accordingly. Daily exercise is a non-negotiable and I’m far more likely to arrange to meet for dinner around 7pm…or earlier if I can get away with it!
Healthy Habits After 60 Are About Clarity, Not Perfection
None of this is about “getting older” in a negative sense.
This stage of life isn’t about doing less. It’s about doing things differently and making considered choices consistently over time.
How about you? What changes have you made to support your health?
Want to keep learning?
- Watch the 30-day RESET videos on Instagram or YouTube
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- My Health Retreats in the Loire Valley, France are the ultimate way to kick-start healthy habits after 60 (and before…why wait?!) that are realistic, practical and achievable…The May Way!
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