7 Things I Wish I Knew Sooner About Aging Well
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If you could go back and whisper a few words of wisdom to your 20-something-year-old self, what would you say?
Maybe something like: “Wear sunscreen, trust me,” or “Your worth is not tied to how much you get done today.”
Same.
Over the past 20+ years working in health and wellness, I’ve learned a lot — the hard way, the professional way, and everything in between. As a certified functional nutritionist and founder of Audre (a collective that helps women in their 30s and 40s learn how to age well and actually enjoy it), I’ve made it my mission to turn those lessons into something meaningful — for me and for you.
So today, I’m sharing the 7 things I wish I’d known sooner. The kind of aging well tips I would pass down to any woman who wants to feel strong, grounded, and graceful as the years go by.
1. SPF Is Not Optional
Back in the 90s and early 2000s, I was all about that “base tan” life. Hats? Sunscreen? Not a chance.
Now I’m playing catch-up with sun damage that could’ve been easily avoided. If you’re serious about aging well, start (or keep) protecting your skin every single day.
That little layer of SPF? It’s your best friend for preventing wrinkles, sun spots, and skin cancer.
And here’s the thing — sun protection isn’t just for beach days. Even a quick errand run or cloudy afternoon can add up over time.
So, yes to SPF in your moisturizer, a good mineral sunscreen, and maybe even a cute sun hat. Your future self will thank you.
2. Blood Sugar Balance Is Everything
I used to think that if I wasn’t gaining weight, I was fine.
But I was battling anxiety, mood swings, and brutal PMS — all of which I now know can be traced back to blood sugar imbalances.
The low-fat snack era definitely didn’t help (hello, low-fat graham crackers with reduced-fat peanut butter and sugary cocktails).
Today, I know that steady blood sugar is key for inflammation, hormonal balance, and even brain health. It’s one of the most overlooked tips for aging well.
Balancing blood sugar doesn’t mean being extreme. It’s about meals with a mix of protein, fat, and fiber. It’s about minimizing spikes and crashes. And it’s about recognizing that how you feel in your body is just as important – if not more so – as what you weigh.
3. Over-Exercising Isn’t a Flex
I used to think more cardio = more health. I was constantly burning myself out with endless elliptical sessions and long bike rides, afraid of lifting weights.
Turns out, rest is just as important as movement. For any aging well woman, balancing strength training with recovery and heart-healthy cardio (not chronic cardio) supports your hormones, muscles, and adrenals—especially in your 30s and beyond.
What does that balance look like? For me, it’s a few strength training sessions a week. Walks that get my heart rate up without draining me. Yoga or stretching to restore the nervous system. And rest days you actually honor.
4. Protein Is a Power Move
I spent years as a vegetarian and vegan, unknowingly under-eating protein.
And let me tell you: that matters.
Getting enough protein is essential for muscle mass, skin elasticity, collagen, and recovery.
Especially as we age, it helps prevent that dreaded muscle loss and supports a strong, capable body.
Aim for a source of high-quality protein at every meal. Think eggs, fish, grass-fed meats, beans, or clean protein powders.
It’s not just about looking toned — it’s about staying resilient, mobile, and energetic.
5. Work/Life Balance Is Health Care
In my 20s and 30s, I felt guilty for resting. Hobbies? Downtime? That could wait.
I thought productivity equaled worth.
But real talk: taking time for joy, rest, and connection is not indulgent — it’s essential.
Every woman who wants to age well should know this. Work will always be there. Your peace of mind is a little more precious.
Your nervous system needs breaks. Your heart needs laughter. Your spirit needs meaning outside your inbox.
Making space for this isn’t lazy — it’s wise.
6. Self-Talk Shapes Everything
The voice in your head matters. For years, mine wasn’t exactly cheering me on.
Shifting from self-criticism to self-compassion has been a game-changer. And when it comes to aging gracefully, studies show women who embrace aging with positivity actually live healthier. Why? Because we’re more likely to show up for ourselves with care and intention.
This isn’t about forced affirmations or pretending everything’s perfect. It’s about interrupting that inner critic and asking: “Would I say this to a friend?” If not, try again.
7. Perfectionism Is a Thief
Of joy, of creativity, of confidence.
I wish I had gotten comfortable making mistakes sooner.
Perfectionism kept me playing small.
But life is trial and error—and the more we let ourselves explore, mess up, and try again, the more freedom and self-trust we build.
You don’t have to get it all right to be doing it right.
And the older I get, the more I believe that our most graceful aging comes from letting go of the need to be flawless, and leaning instead into being fully, gloriously human.
Aging Gracefully Isn’t About Fighting Time—It’s About Partnering With It
If you take anything from this list, let it be this: aging well isn’t about looking 25 forever. It’s about living with vitality, self-respect, and joy now.
So whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or beyond, I hope these reflections give you permission to start (or keep) showing up for yourself in ways that feel good, sustainable, and true.
Because the best time to start aging gracefully? Right now.