Vibrant Aging: Here’s What Made Me Healthier After 60
Elissa Goodman is one of LA's premiere Cleanse Experts and Holistic Nutritionists focused on helping fight cancers through transformative lifestyle and diet changes. In this column, Elissa offers wisdom on nutrition, how to support a healthy immune system, and more.
Throughout my adult life, I pursued the search for vitality and tranquility in every area of my well-being. And I’m proud to say that, in my 60s, I have found all that and more. The holistic modalities I have implemented into my everyday routines have helped me reverse the aging clock, maintain my youthful glow and spirit, and create a platform to share my profound experiences with others with similar wellness goals.
But honestly, the road to my health success wasn’t always smooth. Having been diagnosed with cancer at just 32, I’ve lived through the physical, mental, and emotional hardships of illness. Still, I refused to let that uphill battle prevent me from losing sight of who I was and who I was meant to be. With the right mindset, nutrient-rich foods, holistic health practices, and some luck, I overcame a horrible sickness and transformed my health forever.
I’ve since found my calling to explore health and wellness on a deeper level and create a community where I can share what works and what doesn’t. So, I’ve reflected on my own life to bring you six key points in my journey that have made the biggest difference in allowing me to feel healthier and better than ever after 60.
1. Working In a Flow State
A flow state is a captivating sensation of total engagement in an enjoyable task where you experience deep focus and minimal distractions. This state leads to heightened contentment and satisfaction, resulting in higher productivity with less effort. As a dedicated and passionate professional, I used to feel constantly absorbed by work, adding loads of physical and mental strain to my life. However, learning to tap into a flow state changed everything for me. Work became more enjoyable, requiring less time and effort and relieving stress. This shift improved my well-being and brought a renewed sense of youthfulness. Embracing a flow state has infused my professional life with vibrant energy, positively impacting every aspect of my being.
2. Cherishing Connections with Girlfriends
Staying connected to my girlfriends has proven to be one of my most crucial tips for maintaining a healthy and happy life. By surrounding myself with endlessly supportive and beautifully like-minded women, I’m filled with inspiration and laughter, contributing to graceful aging. Regular social interactions nourish my soul and provide a sense of belonging that motivates me to self-improve. Whether it’s a cozy gathering, a heartfelt conversation, or a fun outing, these connections revitalize my spirits and create positive shifts in my overall well-being. The shared experiences and mutual support with friends bring joy, reduce stress levels, and contribute to a more fulfilling and vibrant life.
3. Embracing Self-Love
Embracing a mindset of self-love has been a game-changer for me. While it’s easier said than done, prioritizing self-care and acknowledging your physical and emotional needs is the essence of self-love. I have learned to treat myself with the same kindness and compassion I extend to others, allowing me to celebrate my worth and create a positive foundation for my well-being. Cultivating self-love involves engaging in positive self-talk, actively checking in with yourself and your feelings, and fostering healthy habits that rejuvenate your body and mind. I make it a point to engage in activities that bring me joy and nourish my soul, such as spending time outside, testing out new recipes with my daughters, or sharing my stories through my books. Remember that making time for self-care is not selfish; it is an essential investment in our long-term health and happiness. The power of self-love transcends any fine line or gray hair and reminds me that I am beautiful and worthy.
4. Reaping the Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
Although I’ve tried just about every diet under the sun, I’ve found the most success implementing intermittent fasting, which involves alternating periods of eating and fasting, giving our bodies a break from constant digestion. When we fast, our bodies undergo cellular repair processes, leading to improved metabolism, enhanced cognitive function, and even longevity. While intermittent fasting has helped me maintain my body composition as I age, it also boosts my energy levels and mental clarity. Incorporating a fasting window into my daily schedule allows my body to optimize its natural healing processes, helping me look and feel my best.
5. Reprioritizing Macronutrients
I’ve emphasized the importance of micronutrient-rich diets for peak health throughout my life. However, it wasn’t until later that I truly recognized the significance of macronutrient optimization, especially regarding protein intake for healthy aging. To prioritize meeting my protein needs, I’ve embraced my own version of the 80/20 rule, consuming 80% of my protein from plant-based sources and 20% from clean animal sources. This approach allows me to enjoy the benefits of a predominantly plant-based diet rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants while obtaining essential amino acids for cellular function and muscle maintenance. It also allows me to experience absolute food freedom, further enhancing my quality of life.
Additionally, I’ve been supplementing with collagen to ensure a daily protein intake of at least 75g. Increasing my collagen intake has rejuvenated my appearance and well-being, keeping me looking and feeling better now than in my younger years. By reprioritizing macronutrients and embracing a diverse, nutrient-rich, plant-powered diet, I’m confident that my body is receiving the essential building blocks necessary for healthy, graceful aging.
6. Recapturing Fragmented Energy
In pursuing healthy aging, addressing the energy fragmentation that often occurs with age is crucial. I’ve discovered that working with a skilled hypnotist helps me dig deep into my subconscious and realign my priorities, whether it’s harboring a healing state for my body or choosing to take care of myself first. For example, I’m passionate about pouring all my energy into my clients, but it can leave me feeling drained. But through sessions with my hypnotist Camilla, I’ve learned to pick up the broken pieces of my energy and put them back together. Imagine a shattered glass above your head and mending the pieces to make it whole. This visualization helps me regain focus, revitalize my body, and prioritize self-care.
I also engage in regular meditation and yoga sessions, promoting inner balance, reduced stress, and enhanced energy levels. Engaging in activities that bring me joy and ignite my soul plays a key role in recapturing fragmented energy and maintaining a youthful enthusiasm toward life.