10 things I had to unlearn about wellness in midlife
- Lesley Farrow

- Jan 15
- 2 min read

For a long time, I thought “wellness” meant being disciplined, skinny, and doing all the “right” things.
Midlife taught me otherwise.
Here’s what I’ve had to unlearn (and relearn properly):
1. Skinny doesn’t mean healthy.
I’ve been smaller and felt worse. Strength, energy and feeling good in my body matter far more than a number on a scale.
2. Sleep isn’t optional.
If I don’t sleep well, my mood, focus and patience suffer. Everything starts there.
3. Water changes more than you think.
My skin, my energy, how I feel in myself - it all improves when I drink enough water.
4. Loneliness is a health issue.
Relationships and community aren’t “nice to haves”. They’re essential. We’re not meant to do life alone.
5. If I don’t visualise it, it doesn’t move.
Clarity matters. What I see in my mind shapes what I create in my life.
6. Movement is non-negotiable - but it doesn’t have to be extreme.
Something every day keeps me grounded, strong and sane.
7. Food needs to nourish, not punish.
Nutrient-dense food most of the time. No extremes.
8. The 80/20 rule works.
80% supportive choices. 20% enjoyment. Life is for living.
9. Alcohol doesn’t do me any favours.
But I still enjoy a glass now and then - without guilt.
10. I don’t do negative people or frenemies anymore.
Energy matters. Peace is priceless. If you're not in my life anymore, there's a reason.
Midlife wellness is about knowing yourself well enough to choose what actually supports you. And having the confidence to let the rest go.
If any of this resonated, and you’re ready to stop guessing and start building a wellness approach that actually fits your life, I work 1:1 with clients who want sustainable change - without extremes.
Sometimes the biggest shift starts with one honest conversation.



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