For a number of months, I’ve been quiet on my blog and here in my Substack space. I pressed pause on recording my Women Living Well After 50 Podcast (although you can still catch up on all the episodes) until I’m ready to take on that extra work again.

Not because I had nothing to say — but because I needed space to work out what I truly wanted to say, and whether I needed to say it at all.

Life didn’t stop during that time.

If anything, it became fuller.

· I took on new roles, stretched myself in different ways, and focused on my health and wellbeing — including working through a few health challenges that reminded me just how important it is to listen to your body.

· I’ve taken on the role of Social Convenor at our local Probus Club, as well as Publicity Officer.

· I’ve continued guiding the wonderful women in our Strong Healthy Women community each Monday, helping them stay fit, strong, and connected.

· I also navigated a potential health issue which, although not completely resolved, has given me answers and a way forward.

Alongside this, I found myself stepping into new routines — working with my physio and making small, intentional changes to support how I want to live moving forward.

And then something shifted.

My daughter set a goal — to run her first marathon.

Without overthinking it, I said I’d do it with her.

At 68, it’s not about proving anything.

It’s about sharing the experience, staying strong, and continuing to say yes to life in ways that feel meaningful.

That’s what brought me back here.

Not to start over — but to continue, with more clarity.

This space, Life in Full Bloom with Sue, is where I’ll be sharing more of the real side of living well after 50. In my case, living well at 68 and beyond.

Not just the highlights— but what it actually takes to stay active, feel confident, and keep moving forward.

You’ll also see me sharing more regularly over on social media — from everyday movement and mindset, to style, confidence, and the collaborations I’m enjoying in fashion and beauty at this stage of life.

Here, I’ll be writing more intentionally — most likely monthly, or whenever I feel the call to share something meaningful. I’ve learned that it’s okay to step back when needed and the world doesn’t end.

How I’m Living Well

I’ve been focusing less on doing more — and more on doing what matters.

Mobility, recovery, and everyday movement have become just as important as structured exercise like strength training and running.

It’s not about pushing harder — it’s about supporting your body so you can keep going.

What I’m Learning

Confidence doesn’t come from doing everything perfectly. It comes from being willing to show up as you are.

And for me, that feels like freedom.

You can Live Well too…..

Live Well Tip: Everyday movement matters more than you think
Bloom Mantra: “I meet myself where I am”
This Month’s Bold Move: Do one thing this week that supports your body — not challenges it

Wherever you are right now, you don’t have to have it all figured out.
You just have to begin.

Live well, stay strong and keep blooming 🌸

I’m currently travelling with my husband around the UK and Norway so not much reading at the moment.

I did want to share the latest episode of The Simply Stunning Classic Book Club Podcast and our discussion of this month’s book selected by Debbie, Farenheit 451.

Farenheit 451

Author: Ray Bradbury | Published: 1953 | Genre: Dystopian Fiction

Fahrenheit 451 is a timeless cautionary tale set in a future where books are banned and “firemen” burn them. Guy Montag, a loyal fireman, begins to question his society’s obsession with mindless entertainment after a chance meeting with a curious young woman and a series of unsettling events. As Montag’s world unravels, he’s forced to choose between safety in ignorance or risk in pursuit of truth.

Bradbury’s prose weaves a vision of a world where people no longer think deeply or feel deeply. The novel isn’t just about censorship—it’s about complacency, the seductive pull of easy entertainment, and the danger of giving up curiosity. Written more than 70 years ago, it feels eerily relevant in our screen-obsessed, fast-paced world.

Did You Know?

• Written in 9 days – Bradbury typed the first draft in the basement of UCLA’s library on a rented typewriter, paying 10 cents for every half-hour.

• Title meaning – “Fahrenheit 451” is the temperature at which paper ignites and burns.

• Not just about censorship – Bradbury said the novel was equally a warning about people choosing not to read, distracted by fast entertainment.

• McCarthy era influence – Written during the height of McCarthyism, the book reflects fears about political repression and the silencing of ideas.

• Captain Beatty’s secret – The fire chief who burns books is himself well-read, quoting literature as he enforces censorship—hinting at his inner conflict.

• Adaptations – The novel has been adapted for film twice: in 1966 (François Truffaut) and in 2018 (HBO).

You can listen to my review and also what my fellow Classic Book Club members thought in our latest podcast episode which you can find HERE. Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Join us – virtually, that is. Our next book for October is Jo’s selection, – The Great Gatsby - F. Scott Fitzgerald. I’m looking forward to discussing it with the Book Club members. We’ll be recording our Zoom sessions and publishing it as a podcast on Substack. We’d love for you to join us… you can subscribe here.

Your Turn

Donna, Deb, Jo and I would love you to share what you’ve been reading … you’ll find the link up here

Happy Monday and welcome to Your Weekly Boost!

It’s time for my monthly Wellness Reimagined post. In last month’s Wellness Reimagined post ‘From Vitality to Longevity: Wellness Reimagined at Every Stage’ I wrote about Your Health Blueprint for Living Well After 50.

This month, I’ve been reflecting on what it really means to age well. For me, it’s not about chasing youth—it’s about showing up for my life feeling energized, independent, and joyful. And that starts with taking care of my one and only body.

I’ve just turned 68, and while that number still surprises me, I’m more determined than ever to live well, feel strong, and age on my own terms.

In August, I completed my second half marathon for this year and that’s another surprise that I’m still running, enjoying it and my body feels strong and healthy.

I also started strength training, balance and plyometrics with my physiotherapist. More about that in another post.

I also enjoy travel and as you read this post, my husband and I will be three weeks into a six-week adventure to the UK and Norway. Walking, exploring, lifting and carrying luggage and extra long flights from Australia, can all take their toll, that’s why staying active and healthy is important. I want to continue travelling for as long as I can.

Did you know?

According to the latest data:

• 1 in 2 Australians live with a chronic condition

• That number rises to nearly 4 in 5 people aged 65 and over

• Many of these conditions—like heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s—can be prevented or managed with lifestyle choices like staying active, eating well, and maintaining social connection
  (Sources: ABS & AIHW, 2022–2023)

These stats aren’t meant to scare—they’re a wake-up call. And they reinforce why I’m choosing to stay active, strong, and proactive about my health in this chapter of life.

Here’s why I’m committed to staying active and well after 60:

• I want to remain independent as I get older

• I want to keep up with my grandchildren

• I want to climb stairs without huffing and puffing

• I want to prevent osteoporosis and reduce fall risk through strength training

• I want to lower my risk of chronic illnesses

• I want to travel and enjoy life with my husband in our Third Age

• I want to wake up feeling vibrant

• I want to stay mentally sharp

• I want to reduce stress and anxiety

• I want to set an example for my family

• I want to keep doing what I love—gardening, dancing, hiking, laughing...

There are so many reasons to make health a priority.

As I mentioned above, I ran another half-marathon, my second for 2025. This one was extra special as my grandsons were there cheering me on at the finish line. They both then ran in the 3km and I was cheering them on.

After my run, both boys came up to me and said ‘you were great, Nan!’. My goal is to show them what I can achieve by staying active and healthy. I like to think I’m a role model to them setting an example of what you can achieve if you put your mind to it.

👉 What’s your WHY? I’d love to hear your reason for staying active and well. Share it in the comments below or jot it down in your journal as a reminder.

Resources

• Harvard Health – A Healthy Lifestyle Late in Life Still Offers Benefits
  Even in your 80s, pursuing healthy habits like regular exercise, diverse diet, and maintaining a good BMI increases your chances of becoming a centenarian—and living longer. (Harvard Health) A healthy lifestyle late in life still offers benefits (Harvard Health) (Harvard Health)

• Tom’s Guide – 5 Simple Daily Exercises for Those Over 60
  Mobility matters. These gentle, no-equipment movements—such as Cat‑Cow stretches, ankle circles, and knee raises—can enhance joint flexibility, prevent falls, and support independence in daily life. ( 5 simple mobility exercises for people over 60 (Tom’s Guide) (Tom's Guide)

  ---

Live Well Tip • Bloom Mantra • This Week’s Bold Move

Live Well Tip:
Schedule movement like it’s a meeting—with yourself. Even 20 minutes a day adds up to stronger bones, better balance, and improved mood.

Bloom Mantra:
"I honour my body by moving it with purpose, love, and joy."

This Week’s Bold Move:
Try one new activity that gets you moving—whether it's a yoga class, a walk with a friend, or lifting light weights. Start small,and start now.

Here’s to embracing ageing staying active after 60!

Podcast

The Retirement Phase - by Sue Women Living Well After 50

My guest is from The Retirement Phase. Jen is in her 70s and shares her thoughts on ageing, staying active and healthy now and into the future. Jennifer is such an inspiration.

Each month I link up with some blogging friends to write about Wellness Reimagined and what it means to us. It’s a way to maintain focus on living a healthy and active lifestyle.

If you would like to join us just click HERE to add your post.

My co-hosts are listed below and I’m sure they would love you to visit:

Debbie Harris – Deb’s World
Donna Connolly – Retirement Reflections
Jennifer Jones – The Retirement Phase
Joanne Tracey – And Anyways

Life is all about creating memories, and I’m about to make some very special ones. As you read this post, Mike and and I have started our adventure of Scotland the first leg of an exciting trip to the UK and Norway.

We’ll be enjoying a touch of Scottish charm, wandering through charming English villages and exploring historic cities, before boarding a cruise to Norway. One f the highlights will be attending the Edinburgh Tattoo the day before my 68th birthday. As a Highland dancer and teacher in another life, this has been on my bucket list for many years. I do love a pipe band!

I’ll be indulging in my love of Jane Austen, celebrating the 250th Anniversary of her birth. From there, we’ll be soaking in breathtaking fjords, picturesque towns, and that fresh Nordic air.

Before I go, the final podcast episode before my break was published last Friday 22nd August. My last Your Weekly Boost newsletter which is my Wellness Reimagined monthly post will be on Monday 1st September. After that, I’ll be taking some time away from regular posts – but don’t worry, I’ll be back for Wellness Reimagined on the first Monday in October.

While I’m away, I’ll still be sharing snippets of our travels over on my social media with the hashtag #mikeandsuetraveladventures. If you’d like to follow along, you’ll be able to see our adventures in real time – from cobblestone streets to sweeping mountain views.

Why take a break?
Time away from our usual routine does wonders for our wellbeing. It gives us a chance to refresh our minds, nurture relationships, and experience the joy of something new. Travel opens our hearts, challenges our perspectives, and helps us return home feeling re-energised and inspired.

I’m looking forward to coming back with fresh stories, new ideas, and (no doubt) hundreds of photos to share. Until then – here’s to making space for joy, adventure, and connection.

Follow my travels on:

Instagram Facebook Substack

Take care and I’ll see you soon!

You might enjoy listening to an early podcast episode and a more recent one both about travelling for women.

In this episode I’m chatting with Angelina Mastrippolito, a second-generation Italian immigrant about her new book ‘Le Seconde’. The book details her life growing up in the cane fields of North Queensland in an Italian family. The expectations on women, the strength of her mother and what you can achieve if you are brave enough to take the step.

This book is resonated with me, as my husband was born in Italy and migrated in 1952 from Italy to Australia with his parents and baby sister at the age of 4.

What I loved about our conversation was learning about Angelina’s journey and all she has achieved from those early days. It reminded me again of the courage and strength of women and what we can achieve.

Meet Angelina

Angelina Mastrippolito grew up amongst the sugarcane fields of Far North Queensland. Her family lived in the small town of Ingham alongside other Italian migrants – it was in fact known as ‘Little Italy.’

​

After university, she qualified as an actuary. She was the first actuary from Far North Queensland and when she qualified in 1988, she was one of only around 30 female actuaries in Australia. She worked in the finance Industry while looking after her two children and an accommodation business in the Snowy Mountains.

​

In a career that spanned over 40 years, she was a trusted advisor to large Australian and multinational companies as well holding senior executive positions, including CEO and COO, in a number of superannuation funds. She is currently a director of the Brave Foundation and on the committee of the Sydney and Inner West U3A and Inner West Speakers.

She is also a director of ASEAN, an organisation that aims to build a culturally diverse community in Australia in order to promote cross cultural relations and interfaith tolerance.

Angelina’s love of writing started in her late fifties, though she has been an avid reader all her life. Le Seconde is her first book.

Angelina lives in Sydney’s Inner West and is the proud mother of two adult children and two very furry but beloved golden retriever dogs. She took up ballroom dancing in her sixties and in her spare time, you will find her perfecting her Argentine Tango.

Le Seconde - Inheriting the Unspoken

Available in paperback or ebook - HERE

You can also watch the interview on Youtube

Subscribe now

It’s time for Your Weekly Boost.

We all know that ageing is inevitable—but ageing well? That’s a choice we can make every single day. Recently, I interviewed Jane Duncan Rogers from Embracing Ageing and during the interview we discussed her beautiful framework of the 4 Pillars of Ageing Well —and it deeply resonated with me.

I have included the interview at the end of the Newsletter for you.

These four A’s are simple, powerful reminders to guide us toward peace, strength, and joy as we journey through life after 50.

Let’s explore each one together:

1. Admitting – “This is where I am.”

Admitting is about telling the truth to yourself. It’s not about giving in—it’s about being real. We admit the changes we’re facing: physical, emotional, or circumstantial. That might mean acknowledging that our energy isn't what it once was, or that we’re ready for a new chapter. There’s courage in this kind of honesty. It's the first step toward real growth.

Reflection: What truth are you ready to admit to yourself today?

2. Adjusting – “How can I respond to this?”

Once we’ve admitted where we are, the next step is adjusting. Life is constantly evolving, and our ability to shift with it—rather than resist it—is what helps us thrive. This might mean changing our routines, modifying how we exercise, or even rethinking how we define success. Adjusting doesn’t mean giving up. It means getting smarter, gentler, and more intentional.

Reflection: Where do you need to adjust to support your wellbeing right now?

3. Accepting – “This is part of my story.”

Acceptance isn't resignation—it’s a kind of strength. It's about releasing the internal battle. You may not love everything about ageing, but accepting it with grace allows you to stop wasting energy resisting the inevitable. That energy can then go toward things that matter more—joy, connection, purpose.

Reflection: What part of your story needs a little more acceptance?

4. Appreciating – “There is still so much beauty here.”

This is the pillar that lifts us. When we start to appreciate the small things—a slower pace, wisdom gained, deeper connections—we start to bloom in new ways. Gratitude becomes a way of living, and we begin to see the richness of life not in spite of ageing, but because of it.

Reflection: What can you deeply appreciate about your life today?

Live Well Tip

Honour the season you’re in. Each stage of life has something valuable to teach you. Don’t rush it. Don’t resist it. Let it unfold.

Bloom Mantra

“I honour who I am, where I am, and all I am becoming.”

This Week’s Bold Move

✨ Have an honest conversation—with yourself or someone you trust—about what you’re ready to admit, adjust, accept, or appreciate. Just one step can create a powerful shift.

Embracing this exciting time of life together
Sue 🌷
Coach & Creator of Life in Full Bloom
Women Living Well After 50

Would you like to try something new? Share your story

I’m always looking for guests for my Women Living Well After 50 Podcast. Not celebrities, but women who have a story to tell. Women who may not be in the spotlight but have something of interest to share with my audience. Women who are passionate about helping other women to bloom after 50.

If this sounds like you, and you want to step out of your comfort zone I’d love t hear from you. Just send me a quick email to sue@womenlivingwellafter50.com.au with your details and the topic you would like to discuss during an interview and let’s book a date and time. Could you also include your time zone. I live in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia so my time is AEST.

I can’t wait to hear from you.

On the Podcast

My reading during August was a mixed bag. There were even a couple of DNF because they just didn’t grab me. I used to struggle through to finish all books that I read but these days I’m more discerning and protective of my time. If I can’t get into a book after a couple of chapters I put it aside. Perhaps I’ll read it another time or I perhaps I won’t.

Read of the Month

The Secret Ingredient - Sue Heath

Sometimes a book just draws you in and The Secret Ingredient by Sue Heath did just that to me. I had downloaded the copy without reading the blurb so I wasn’t sure what to expect, although I did think cooking might be involved.

The Secret Ingredient is one of those books that once you start you just can’t put down.

For Kate Shaw, the main character in The Secret Ingredient, life stopped three years ago. She counts the time since in years, weeks, and days—but also in things she hasn’t done. She hasn’t cooked. She hasn’t really laughed. She hasn’t felt alive.

But on this particular day, Kate steps back into the kitchen and decides to make pancakes.

It’s a small act. But it changes everything.

What unfolds is a beautiful, moving story of a woman rediscovering herself, one recipe at a time. As she reconnects with her past through the handwritten recipes of her gran, Kate finds joy in creating again. Through baking, Kate slowly brings life back—not just to herself, but to her neighbours as well.

She meets Charles, an elderly man. He shares memories of his courtship with the love of his life, Mary. Their courtship started in the tearoom which Kate’s house once was. Della, a kind woman with green thumbs and a nurturing heart starting life over after her husband leaves. And Jack, a former celebrity chef who, much like Kate, has lost his spark but is looking to rediscover it.

Together, these friendships develop and become Kate’s ‘family’, her lifeline, and her mirror—reflecting back the possibility that even in our loneliest moments, we are not alone.

For me, Mary is the star of the story. Her courage and selflessness are inspiring. Her love for others, especially Charles, shines through. She shares her wisdom to help Kate and others find their way back home.

These characters felt so real, I found myself wanting to sit down with them over a meal and hear their stories.

The Secret Ingredient, is joyful and uplifting despite the loss and sadness experienced by the characters. Heart warming, beautifully written, with depth & sensitivity. I thoroughly enjoyed The Secret Ingredient and it is a 5 stars from me.

This book is a celebration of food, memory, grief, friendship, and second chances—and it offers a quiet message of hope for any woman who’s ever wondered, Can I really begin again?

Other Reading

Untrue Blue - Lord & Lady Hetheridge Mysteries (Book 7) - Emma Jameson - 4 stars

When I’m not sure what to read, I reach for a British crime mystery and the Lord & Lady Hetherington Mysteries, by Emma Jameson is one that I discovered in August.

This cozy mystery series follows Chief Superintendent Lord Anthony Hetheridge of Scotland Yard and Detective Sergeant Kate Wakefield, his younger colleague and eventual wife. Along with DS Paul Bhar, they navigate high-society crimes and London’s upper crust. The tone blends wit, light procedural elements, and romance against a backdrop of murder mysteries.

If you enjoy a cozy, British crime then this series is for you.

The Borrowed Life of Fredick Fife - Anna Johnston - 3 stars

I had mixed feelings about this book and it only rated a 3 star from me. My problem was not being able to get past the plot which to me was not plausible. One reader mentioned feeling pulled out of the story, noting unrealistic shifts in tone. Yet on the flipside another reviewer from The Bookish Bulletin even noted that, despite the implausible premise, they willingly immersed themselves in the world Anna Johnston created—and were delighted all the way through

Despite the plot and at times frustration with ageism, I found Frederick (Fred) to be delightful, warm and kind - hearted won me over and I kept reading. Humanity and kindness shone through and that’s always a good thing isn’t it?

The Simply Stunning Classic Book Club & Podcast

The Awakening was my selection for our Simply Stunning Classic Book Club and Podcast.

Book Review — The Awakening by Kate Chopin

The Awakening is a bold, ahead-of-its-time novel exploring female identity, self-discovery, and the conflict between societal expectations and personal freedom.

When first published, readers were shocked by the portrayal of a woman feeling stifled and oppressed with a lack of maternal feelings for her children who seeks passion and physical love outside of her marriage. Some libraries even banned the book as it insulted the societal expectations of the Victorian era.

Set in late 19th-century Louisiana, it follows Edna Pontellier, a wife and mother who begins to question her conventional life after experiencing a stirring romantic and emotional awakening. Through encounters with love, art, and the sea, Edna seeks independence—but her defiance of norms comes at a great personal cost.

Chopin’s lush prose and symbolism—especially the recurring imagery of the sea—create a rich portrait of a woman torn between passion and propriety. While the ending shocked contemporary readers, modern audiences often view it as a poignant and powerful conclusion to a story about autonomy and choice.

Interesting facts:

1. Not Widely Appreciated in Her Lifetime – The controversy damaged Kate Chopin’s literary career, and the book faded from public view until feminist scholars revived it in the 1969, when Norwegian scholar Per Seyersted published The Complete Works of Kate Chopin along with a full-length biography, sparking a revival of scholarly interest.

2. The Sea as Symbol – The sea in the novel represents freedom, sensuality, and self-discovery. Chopin herself was an accomplished swimmer—rare for women at the time—and used her personal love of the water in the story.

3. A Pioneer of Feminist Fiction – Chopin is often considered one of the first American authors to write openly about female sexual desire and autonomy.

4. Based on Real Places – Grand Isle, the summer setting in the book, is a real barrier island in Louisiana where Chopin vacationed.

5. Short Career, Lasting Legacy – Chopin died just five years after The Awakening was published, but the novel is now taught widely in literature and women’s studies courses.

You can listen to my review and also what my fellow Classic Book Club members thought in our latest podcast episode which you can find HERE. Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Join us – virtually, that is. Our next book for August is Debbie’s selection, – Farenheit 451. Dystopia is not my usual genre but I’m ready to push out of my comfort zone. I’m looking forward to discussing it with the Book Club members. We’ll be recording our Zoom sessions and publishing it as a podcast on Substack. We’d love for you to join us… you can subscribe here.

Your Turn - What have you been reading lately?

Donna, Deb, Jo and I would love you to share what you’ve been reading … you’ll find the link up here

Happy Monday!

It’s time for your Weekly Boost and I’m starting with a question for you.

What if aging wasn’t about slowing down, but about gearing up for your next great adventure?

As I continue to embrace this season of life, I’ve come to believe something deeply:

Aging isn’t about resisting the mirror—it’s about rediscovering the woman looking back at you.

I see aging as a privilege, but not one that means settling down or shrinking back. To me, it means blooming in bold, beautiful ways. It’s about living with purpose, choosing joy, and staying open—to change, to wonder, and to the next adventure.

And that’s exactly why my conversation with the wonderful Brodee Myers-Cooke lit such a spark.

Recently, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with the dynamic and refreshingly honest Brodee, former editor-in-chief of Taste.com.au (which has been No. 1 in food in Australia for well over 15 years) and the brilliant mind behind the concept of a “Roadtrip to Younger.”

Our conversation wasn’t about chasing youth—it was about reclaiming vitality, curiosity, and joy on our own terms. 'Brodee believes that feeling younger has less to do with age and everything to do with mindset, movement, and meaningful connection.

“It’s not about denying age—it’s about refusing to be defined by it.” – Brodee Myers-Cooke

My Reflection:

This conversation reminded me that every woman over 50 has a choice: we can retreat… or we can rev up. Brodee’s “Roadtrip to Younger” isn’t about going backwards. It’s about going deeper into who we really are—and having fun along the way.

I loved Brodee’s concept of ‘Joyspan is the new lifespan’.
It’s not just about how long we live—it’s about how well we live. Joyspan is the stretch of life we fill with meaning, laughter, purpose, and delight. It’s dancing in the kitchen, saying yes to adventure, nurturing connection, and savoring the small things. As we bloom in our 50s and beyond, expanding our Joyspan becomes our true measure of vitality—because what matters most isn’t just adding years to our life, but adding life to our years.

Live Well Tip:
Reignite your sense of adventure. It doesn’t need to be a literal roadtrip—try a new walking path, a different breakfast, or a spontaneous outing.

Bloom Mantra:
“Younger is a state of curiosity.”

This Week’s Bold Move:
Write down 3 things that make you feel energized, alive, and lighthearted—then choose one to do this week.

Thank you for being here with me on this journey. Aging is inevitable—but how we age? That’s our story to write. Let’s keep rewriting the rules together.

With joy and wanderlust,
Sue
Helping Women Over 50 Bloom in Life

On the Podcast

🎧 The full interview is now live on the Women Living Well After 50 podcast. Listen here →

'Joyspan' – the longest, most pleasurable healthspan possible.

Brodee Myers-Cook is on a mission to help women find their roadmap to vibrant ageing through her Road to Younger Magazine on Substack. After a shock result from her ostoeporosis test Brodee shares her ‘wake up’ call and what she is doing to maintain strength and vitality in life.

This week on the Women Living Well After 50 podcast, I’m joined by the insightful and inspiring Brodee, where we dive into a powerful conversation around what it truly means to age well. From embracing the Roadtrip to Younger mindset to facing the realities of osteoporosis with strength and knowledge, we cover it all. And at the heart of it? Joyspan—the idea that it’s not just about how long we live, but how much joy we infuse into every moment. If you're ready for an honest, uplifting chat about health, vitality, and blooming after 50, you won’t want to miss this episode.

Meet Brodee

I was an award-winning journalist, and magazine editor for almost 30 years, working across leading lifestyle titles including Editorial Director on Australia’s leading food brand, taste.com.au for 10 years. A career highlight was the award for Journalist of the Year at the Women in Media Awards.

Now, my "beat" as you might say, is healthy ageing. I launched Road Trip to Younger magazine as a free digital magazine in late 2024 with a vision to cut through the hype, decode the science. To lay out the road map for growing younger as we grow older. I always say the destination is Joyspan—the longest, most pleasurable lifespan possible.

I’m also on a mission to change the way we all THINK about ageing. There’s a revolution in women’s ageing happening out there that no one's talking about. I'm passionate about sharing stories from women over 50 who are doing ageing their way through The Postcard Project.

I’ve enjoyed being an advocate for osteoporosis awareness, including with osteoporosis ambassador, Ita Buttrose.

LINKS

Road Trip to Younger magazine:

Road Trip to Younger

The science-backed, go-to guide to joyful ageing for women 50+. We're the community that's growing younger as we grow (gloriously) Older ✩｡°

By Brodee Myers-Cooke

The Postcard Project -- launch issue (featuring Sue Loncaric)

Road Trip to Younger

Ageing in Colour: The ageing revolution starts here!

Read more

a year ago · 21 likes · 16 comments · Brodee Myers-Cooke

My latest series launch issue Boss Your Bones After 50

Road Trip to Younger

Boss Your Bones After 50: Your journey to stronger bones starts here!

"Bones. They’re literally the backbone of our health, and our joy. To nurture and strengthen them is perhaps the ultimate act of self care…

Read more

9 months ago · 37 likes · 18 comments · Brodee Myers-Cooke

Watch the Video of the Interview

Happy Monday!

Welcome to Your Weekly Boost and this week it is my monthly Wellness Reimagined post. Each month I write about how we view wellness as one of our pillars for embracing ageing.

Wellness after 50 isn’t about shrinking. It’s about growing stronger—physically, mentally, emotionally—and building a life that supports our freedom and vitality now and in the decades ahead.

Recently I came across this statement and it really struck a chord.

“I’m not chasing a smaller size. I’m building a life where my 80‑year‑old self can haul groceries, keep up with the grandkids, and stand up with strength and grace.”

I also asked some members of the FB Group their thoughts and this is what they had to say….

‘I want to stay active and independent for as long as I can so I can keep travelling to see family in Australia and England. Being able to play and run around with my grandchildren is another reason.’ - Debbie

‘I want to be the 80 year old out there on the ski hill rocking the runs and playing in the pool with great grandchildren ((whoa --- that is the weirdest thought being a great grandparent!!!!)). I want to be independant and fit and engaged and connected so I need a strong body and a fit mind’ - Bernie

‘My objective and what keeps me exercising is to keep my strength mobility and independence.’ - Jennifer

‘I am chasing a better me. My Mental health and to keep physical fit. You have to want it for yourself or you won't push yourself.’ - Anne

Your turn…..Reflection Prompt

What do I want my 80‑year‑old self to thank me for?
Think about what you’re doing now that builds a stronger, freer future.

Your Wellness Blueprint for Life After 50

Cardiovascular Health

• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio each week—brisk walking, dancing, cycling, swimming.

• Try interval walking (alternate faster and slower pace) to boost heart fitness.

• Keep an eye on blood pressure, cholesterol, and resting heart rate.

Stat: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for Australian women, but regular cardio activity can reduce your risk by 35% or more.
(Source: Heart Foundation Australia)

Physical Strength & Mobility

• Strength train 2–3 times per week with body weight, resistance bands, or weights.

• Walk daily. Add hills or stairs to build leg strength.

• Practice balance and flexibility with Pilates or yoga.

• Prioritize sleep and rest days.

Stat: Up to 50% of adults over 80 experience sarcopenia, but strength training helps prevent it.
(Source: Wikipedia)

Nutrition for Longevity

• Focus on whole foods, especially leafy greens, healthy fats, lean proteins, and fibre.

• Include protein at every meal to support muscle repair and brain function.

• Hydration matters—sip water throughout the day.

Stat: Older adults need 1.0–1.2g of protein per kg of body weight per day to maintain strength.
(Source: EatingWell)

Spiritual Wellness

• Spend time in stillness—meditation, nature, prayer, or journaling.

• Reconnect with purpose through creative or meaningful pursuits.

• Practice daily gratitude to reduce stress and elevate joy.

Mental & Emotional Wellness

• Keep your brain sharp with reading, puzzles, or learning something new.

• Let go of comparisons and celebrate your own path.

• Connect deeply with others who lift you up.

• Speak kindly to yourself.

Medical Checkups & Prevention

• Schedule annual checkups for blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and bone density.

• Stay up to date with breast screens, skin checks, and bowel cancer screenings.

• Don’t ignore symptoms—early action can prevent bigger problems.

• Ask your GP about supplements like Vitamin D or calcium if you're postmenopausal.

Stat: Preventive screenings reduce mortality risk and improve quality of life—especially when caught early.

Wellness Summary Table

Road trip to Younger

I would also like to share with you a fabulous series by , Road Trip to Younger Magazine. I recently, interviewed Brodee for the Women Living Well After 50 Podcast which will be aired in the next week or so.

Brodee is on a mission to help us all age well and live a healthy lifestyle. Here weekly series is a must read so here is a link to her latest Substack post

Boss Your Bones After 50: Your journey to stronger bones starts here!

Weekly Boost

Live Well Tip

Start small:

5 minutes of movement today—a walk, some stretches, or a few squats.
Your future self is watching—and cheering you on.

Bloom Mantra

"I’m building strength for the life I want to keep living."

Bold Move: 7-Day Challenge

Choose one wellness area—cardio, strength, nutrition, spiritual, emotional, or preventive care—and commit to a small daily action.

Is it time for you to rethink Wellness and your future vitality and longevity? What are you doing now for your future self? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Here’s to embracing ageing with vitality!

Each month I link up with some blogging friends to write about Wellness Reimagined and what it means to us. It’s a way to maintain focus on living a healthy and active lifestyle.

If you would like to join us just click HERE to add your post.

My co-hosts are listed below and I’m sure they would love you to visit:

Debbie Harris – Deb’s World
Donna Connolly – Retirement Reflections
Jennifer Jones – The Retirement Phase
Joanne Tracey – And Anyways

Happy Monday!

It’s time for Your Weekly Boost!

When was the last time you sang - in the shower, in the car, around the house, in church or even in a choir?

Did you know that everyone can sing? It’s a natural gift that goes far beyond melody — singing nourishes your mind, body, and spirit with joy, health, and connection.

This week, I’m sharing an experience which left me reflecting on the benefits of singing even if it is only in the shower and for your own enjoyment!

Last week, Mike and I attended a Christmas in July luncheon with our Probus Group. It was such a fun day with everyone getting into the spirit and dressing up for the Christmas theme and enjoying each other’s company over a delicious meal.

One of the highlights was the newly formed ‘Men’s Chorale’. They have been practising for about 3 months under the direction of one of our couples who have professional music backgrounds.

I was sitting with two of the gentlemen who would be performing. Both declaring ‘they couldn’t sing’ and I could tell they were nervous.

They dressed in black pants, white shirts with colourful bow ties and hats. Looking very dapper, they walked in to perform three well known Christmas songs.

The performance was fantastic and even my husband, who vehemently declares he cannot sing and doesn’t want to join the chorale, was feeling a twinge of regret that he wasn’t up there with them.

I looked at these men, all 70+ singing and performing and thought what positive, health benefits we can gain from singing. They overcame their nerves and enjoyed the experience. At the end, the audience cheered and applauded and you could see how proud each of the members of the chorale felt. They had not only overcome their fears and lack of self-confidence - they had done an outstanding job.

We videoed their performance and watching it back, both Mike and I couldn’t help singing along. The result: we felt happy, joyful and uplifted and for me, I know if they start a ladies choir I will be signing up even though I would never win ‘Australia’s Got Talent!’ I might even get Mike to try for the Men’s Chorale - you never know!

So what are the benefits of singing?

The Science of Singing: Why It’s So Good for You

For Your Mind:

Singing releases a cocktail of feel-good hormones that lift your mood and calm your stress. It boosts:

• Dopamine — the happiness neurotransmitter

• Endorphins — your body’s natural painkillers and stress busters

• Oxytocin — the “bonding hormone” that deepens social connection

Research shows that just one singing session can reduce the stress hormone cortisol by 11% (Psychology of Music, 2015). It also activates multiple brain areas linked to memory and attention, helping sharpen your mind.

For Your Body:

Singing is a full-body workout in disguise:

• It strengthens your diaphragm and lungs through deep, controlled breathing (Clinical Respiratory Journal, 2017).

• Lowers blood pressure and heart rate by calming your nervous system (International Journal of Cardiology, 2016).

• Encourages good posture and engages core muscles.

Even people with respiratory conditions can improve lung function through singing therapy!

For Your Spirit & Social Connection:

Whether solo or in a group, singing connects us deeply:

• Group singing enhances community and reduces loneliness by boosting oxytocin (Frontiers in Psychology, 2016; BMC Psychology, 2017).

• Being part of a choir in particular offers a powerful sense of belonging, purpose, and routine. Studies have shown that choir members report greater life satisfaction and emotional wellbeing, especially in older adults (Australian Journal of Music Therapy, 2020). Pub Choir is a wonderful example of getting ordinary people to sing About | Join the Sing-Along Fun! — Pub Choir

• Singing offers emotional expression and mindfulness, bringing peace and joy. Start singing your favourite song and tell me you don’t feel energised and uplifted.

• It’s a spiritual practice that fosters presence and inner calm.

Everyone Can Sing — Your Voice is Medicine!

No matter your skill level or age, singing is for you. Hum, sing in the shower, or join a choir. Your voice is your joyful tool for thriving.

Near Hervey Bay, Queensland, The Forget Me Not singing group, is made up of people diagnosed with dementia and their carers. They meet twice a week under the care and direction of Julie de Waard who describes the two hours of singing as ‘dementia-friendly’ and suggests:

"Singing allows you to release endorphins and make you feel good," says Ms de Waard, who is the seniors liaison officer with Fraser Coast Regional Council.

At the same time, they're opening up their lungs … we're doing things like looking for the page numbers and looking for the songs in the book.

Every breath between lyric or shake of an instrument is an exercise in combating the debilitating condition.

It's targeting hand-eye coordination and all of those physical attributes as well as memory,"

Live Well Tip

Sing your favourite song out loud at least once today. Feel your breath, free your voice, and invite joy in.

Bloom Mantra

“My voice is my joy. I sing to nurture my mind, body, and soul.”

This Week’s Bold Move

Try a local or online singing group/class, or simply record yourself singing and listen back with kindness and pride.

Singing is not just music—it’s healing, connection, and vitality. So sprinkle your unique song into every day and bloom from the inside out.

With presence and joy,
Sue 🌷
Coach & Creator of Life in Full Bloom
Women Living Well After 50

Would you like to try something new? Share your story

I’m always looking for guests for my Women Living Well After 50 Podcast. Not celebrities, but women who have a story to tell. Women who may not be in the spotlight but have something of interest to share with my audience. Women who are passionate about helping other women to bloom after 50.

If this sounds like you, and you want to step out of your comfort zone I’d love t hear from you. Just send me a quick email to sue@womenlivingwellafter50.com.au with your details and the topic you would like to discuss during an interview and let’s book a date and time. Could you also include your time zone. I live in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia so my time is AEST.

I can’t wait to hear from you.

The latest episode on the Podcast

In this episode I’m discussing finding our voice after 50 through storytelling.

Are you ready to write your story?

‘Writing isn't just about words. It's a way to define and clarify who you are, what you think, what you want to say, and where you stand in this ever-evolving world. Unlocking your creativity isn't indulgent - it's essential.

Claiming and defining your voice will be the key to unlocking your next chapter!’

My guest today is Bonnie Garvin founder of Storytelling Lab who shares her work in helping others find their voice and share their story.

We discuss how we can unleash our creativity and overcome limiting beliefs, where we can find inspiration and rediscovering the ‘creative natural child’.

Watch the Video

Meet Bonnie Garvin

Bonnie Garvin is an award-winning writer, producer, and USC screenwriting professor. Her passion is the Storytelling Lab, a six-person, six-week international Zoom class she created to unleash the creative spirit buried beneath the layers of insecurity.

She has written and produced movies for television and film in the United States in Europe. In addition to writing for the three major American broadcast networks, she’s worked for Showtime, Lifetime and USA, as well. Her first feature, The Killing Yard, was optioned by Warner Brothers, and later made as film for Showtime. It garnered several award nominations including an Edgar for Best Written Television/Miniseries. Bonnie received a special Silver Gavel Award from the American Bar Association, the largest professional legal organization in the world, for her “accurate portrayal of the criminal justice system.” She’s a produced playwright and her personal essays appear in three book anthologies.

​

Bonnie's Storytelling Lab is unlike any other writing class or workshop. Her goal isn’t to teach you how to write but rather to help unlock your own unique voice. The course embodies her philosophy that we’re born writers. She specializes in getting you out of your own way.

Bonnie’s enabled and empowered hundreds of writers around the globe. In addition to creating her international online Storytelling Lab, she’s a professor at the University of Southern California in the School of Cinema Arts where she’s taught screenwriting for two decades.

www.storytellinglab.online

Storytelling Lab

Insider stories, hard-won advice, and game-changing tips from an award-winning Hollywood writer, producer, and USC screenwriting professor—everything you need to know to launch, build, and survive a writing career.

By Bonnie Garvin

Last week I wrote about Getting back up when life gets too hard. I had been going through a difficult phase and needed to step back from life for a time and I thank many of you who took the time to respond with supportive encouragement. During that time I reflected on how we present to others and the feeling that we aren’t quite ‘enough’.

There is so much pressure to be ‘more than who we are or what we do’ these days. Do you feel that way? I know when I was young, insecure and lacking self-confidence I never felt I was enough. I hid behind a mask of trying to be more than what I was. Trying to do more in an effort to prove myself worthy. Wanting to change my body shape, unhappy with the way I looked compared to what the models in the magazines projected as the perfect body or woman.

So many hours and effort wasted in youth worrying and striving for perfection - it was exhausting. Now at almost 68, I would tell my ‘younger self’ -

You are enough and your power is simply being you.

Over to you……

When was the last time you truly honoured who you are—without trying to fix, refine, or improve?

We live in a world that constantly nudges us to be more—more polished, more productive, more perfect. But what if the greatest power lies in simply being… you?

Not the version of you chasing a goal.
Not the one ticking off tasks.
Just the one who shows up with honesty, warmth, and heart.

There is real, radiant strength in that.

You don’t have to dazzle or dominate.
You don’t have to explain yourself.
You just have to be you—fully, unapologetically, and without apology.

When you live that truth, you begin to trust yourself. You stop performing. You breathe easier. And that’s where the real power grows—quietly, confidently, from within.

It isn’t easy to change, especially when we may have lived many years with these limiting beliefs - but we can change and find happiness and joy in accepting who we are and loving who we are.

So this week, I invite you to strip away the noise and reflect on who you really are. Let go of the need to impress and just be your authentic self.

Just be—and see what unfolds.

With love,
Sue x
Coach & Creator of Life in Full Bloom
Women Living Well After 50

🌟 Live Well Tip • Bloom Mantra • This Week’s Bold Move

Live Well Tip:
You don’t need to prove your worth. You already are enough.

Bloom Mantra:
"There is power in simply being me."

This Week’s Bold Move:
Let go of one thing you’re doing to meet someone else’s expectations. Replace it with something that makes you feel like you.

Would you like to try something new? Share your story

I’m always looking for guests for my Women Living Well After 50 Podcast. Not celebrities, but women who have a story to tell. Women who may not be in the spotlight but have something of interest to share with my audience. Women who are passionate about helping other women to bloom after 50.

If this sounds like you, and you want to step out of your comfort zone I’d love t hear from you. Just send me a quick email to sue@womenlivingwellafter50.com.au with your details and the topic you would like to discuss during an interview and let’s book a date and time. Could you also include your time zone. I live in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia so my time is AEST.

I can’t wait to hear from you.

The latest episode on the Podcast

Owning It - The Art of Embracing Ageing with Jane Duncan Rogers

Are you embracing Ageing or pushing back against the inevitable? My guest today is Jane Duncan Rogers who feels that aging should be viewed in a ‘whacky’ way and with positivity, gratitude and acceptance. Jane shares her thoughts on her Substack account which you can subscribe to below.

Jane is warm and encouraging and I could have chatted to her for hours. I’m definitely having Jane back in future episodes.

In this episode we discuss:

• Jane’s story, a widow at 54 which led to writing books and finding unexpected love again

• Mindset is the key - The 4 pillars of ageing

• End of life planning - an important task but which many of us put off because it is a confronting issue

Watch the Video

Meet Jane

Jane Duncan Rogers, an award-winning author, coach, and thought leader, was trained personally by Louise L. Hay in 1990. Jane was the first to bring Louise’s transformative work to the UK and Europe, and wrote her first book in 1997. From running 6 small businesses in the wellbeing field since 1992, she is now a champion for conscious ageing.

Through writing Embracing Ageing on Substack, she encourages everyone to welcome the last third of their lives wackily and well. She sees ageing not as a decline, but as a time for deeper wisdom, intentional living and a dollop of quirkiness, and she supports others to do the same.

Jane says:

“The journey of ageing well is much richer when it is walked alongside joy, juiciness and gratitude for simply being alive, no matter what”.

Embracing Ageing

Helping older age wonders age wackily and well, without fear of the future getting in the way

By Jane Duncan Rogers

Jane’s books: https://www.janeduncanrogers.com/books

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jane.duncanrogers/

Would you like to try something new? Share your story

I’m always looking for guests for my Women Living Well After 50 Podcast. Not celebrities, but women who have a story to tell. Women who may not be in the spotlight but have something of interest to share with my audience. Women who are passionate about helping other women to bloom after 50.

If this sounds like you, and you want to step out of your comfort zone I’d love t hear from you. Just send me a quick email to sue@womenlivingwellafter50.com.au with your details and the topic you would like to discuss during an interview and let’s book a date and time. Could you also include your time zone. I live in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia so my time is AEST.

I can’t wait to hear from you.

Subscribe now

My book of the month

The Island Girls by Rachel Smeasley – 5 stars

My selected Book of the Month took some time for me to visit, but it was well worth the wait. I had downloaded this book quite some time ago, but for some reason kept selecting other books to read. Last weekend I finally started reading The Island Girls and once I began I couldn’t put it down.

Rachel Sweasey’s The Island Girls transports readers through two intertwined timelines, exploring the resilience, courage, and enduring bond between women.

Peggy and Rebekah—two women separated by time, yet connected through place, purpose, and quiet strength. Peggy’s story unfolds during World War II, a time when women were often expected to stay silent and small. Yet Peggy defies these expectations. She becomes involved in work that is both vital and dangerous.. Standing up not just for her country, but for her own sense of self-worth and justice, Peggy is a powerful reminder of the often-overlooked roles women played in wartime, and how ordinary lives were shaped by extraordinary circumstances. It is also a story of sacrifice and love lost.

It’s 1998 and Rebekah is grappling with a personal loss and a search for belonging. Escaping from her home in Brisbane to take up the role as a Wildlife Ranger on the same remote island where Peggy once lived and served, Rebekah finds herself slowly starting to live again. The discovery of an unopened letter uncovers secrets of the past. As she pieces together Peggy’s life, Rebekah begins to heal her own wounds, gaining strength and clarity through the legacy of a woman she never met.

Sweasey smoothly weaves these timelines together, revealing how the past can echo through generations. Her writing is rich in atmosphere—the island itself feels like a silent witness to both heartbreak and hope. But it’s the emotional journey of these women that truly carries the novel. Sisterhood, sacrifice, and standing up for what matters are the themes.

Rachel Sweasey is a historical fiction novelist. She lives in Australia, but bases her fiction in Poole, Dorset, where she grew up and which provides the inspiration for her WW2 stories.

I soon became lost in the story of Peggy and her adventures but was also sad for the personal sacrifices she made. A touching and evocative novel, The Island Girls honors the strength of women past and present. Through Peggy and Rebekah, Rachel Sweasey shows us that the courage to stand up, speak out, and carry on can echo long after the event.

If you love historical fiction with strong female leads, The Island Girls is a compelling and quietly powerful read. It celebrates the forgotten heroines of WWII while reminding us that acts of bravery—large and small—are never truly lost.

Other books I highly recommend and rated at least 4 stars

The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress by Sue Williams

My friend and co-host Debbie Harris from Deb’s World, recommended this book to me because it is partially set on Norfolk Island, a remote island off the coast of Australia, which I shall be visiting in October.

I enjoy reading books about the First Fleeters but especially stories of the women who came to this unknown land and the courage, strength and influence they developed. In this case two women from vastly different backgrounds.

Anne Innett, a widow from the Civil War, left with two children finds herself sentenced to the new colony in NSW. She is forced to leave her two children behind with the possibility of never seeing them again.

Anna Josepha comes to Australia as the wife of the soon to be Governor, Phillip Gidley King. King had been sent to Australia a few years before to set up a colony on Norfolk Island as an extension of the NSW colony. An ambitious and idealistic man torn between duty and desire.

This story is about love, betrayal, an unlikely alliance and the resilience of women.

I enjoyed the vivid writing of Sue Williams, having read Elizabeth & Elizabeth. I felt I was there with both Anne and Anna Josepha coping with a new, harsh world of a fledgling, volatile colony struggling to define itself. Sue Williams combines historical facts with a plot that highlights darker aspects of colonial life — inequality, exploitation, and the suppression of Indigenous voices — but always filters it through the intimate lens of personal relationships.

If you enjoy historical fiction you will enjoy The Governor, His Wife & His Mistress.

Other books I’ve read this month which I enjoyed

The Secret Hours by Mick Herron – If you enjoy Slow Horses this book has some of the characters although is a stand alone read. It’s about the world of espionage and the power of the First Desk position in MI5 – another formidable and powerful woman.

The Fireground by Dervla McTiernan – I discovered this book scrolling through social media and took up the offer of a free download. Set in Western Australia around Perth and Margaret River, I enjoyed the story despite the mixed reviews. Flynn was only a teenager when lost her parents in an accident and took on the responsibility of her younger sister, Kaiya. When Kaiya does not return from a camping weekend and is thought to have perished in the bush fires, Flynn with the help of another wayward soul, Noah, fight to find answers. A mystery, thriller which I rated 4 stars.

O’Mara’s – The Guesthouse on the Green #1 by Michelle Vernal – another free download! It was my lucky month. Who can resist a book set in Ireland and the Irish sense of humour. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters in this series and will definitely be reading more of Michelle Vernal’s work. I found myself laughing out loud which is unusal for me and it is basically a feel good book. It’s a 4 star from me.

The Inspector Graham Mysteries Books 1 -8 Box set by Alison Golden – I downloaded this series a few months ago and when I feel like an easy read with a touch of mystery I reach for one of these books. Inspector David Graham leaves London’s Met after personal tragedy looking for a less stressful lifestyle. Within the first day on the island he has a murder to solve! I love the characters and learning about life on Jersey. If you are after a cozy crime or mystery set on an English Isle then check out this series. I rate the books 4 stars.

Simply Stunning Classic Book Club – Our next podcast episode is LIVE!

We had a wonderful response to our first episode of The Simply Stunning Classic Book Club Podcast which featured our discussion of The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Graham. If you missed it you can listen HERE.

The Simply Stunning Classic Book Club Podcast
New Episode – The CodeD of the Woosters – P.G. Wodehouse

The Code of the Woosters by P.D. Wodehouse was the selection for our Classic Book Club. I had never heard of P.G. Wodehouse so hadn’t read any of his books and the title didn’t give me any clues. Was it a mystery? Was it about espionage? I was not prepared for the style of writing and the satirical nature of the book. Satire is not one of my favourite styles and I struggled at first, thinking it was all just absurd.

However, not to be deterred I listened to the Audio which really didn’t help. I then discovered a television series from back in the early 90s. Hugh Laurie as the bumbling Wooster and Stephen Fry as his long-suffering Jeeves were perfectly cast and I finally understood the book. It was witty, clever and delightful. I started reading the book again, diving down rabbit holes to learn more about Wodehouse and did a complete 360.

You can listen to my review and also what my fellow Classic Book Club members thought in our latest podcast episode which you can find HERE. Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Join us – virtually, that is. Our next book for August is my selection, –The Awakening by Karen Chopin . I’m looking forward to discussing it with the Book Club members. We’ll be recording our Zoom sessions and publishing it as a podcast on Substack. We’d love for you to join us… you can subscribe here.

On the third Friday of each month, I join my friends Deb from Deb’s World, Donna from Retirement Reflections and Joanne Tracey - Author to host the ‘What’s On Your Bookshelf?’’ link up sharing reviews on what we have read. Pop over and see my co-host book reviews and perhaps link up as well HERE

Over to you…..

What has been on your reading list?

I nearly didn’t write a newsletter this week because I’ve had a few personal issues to deal with and life just became too hard.

For me, when that happens I tend to curl into myself, give myself space and time and usually I bounce back. I also need to remember that whilst I enjoy writing and sharing ways we can continue to bloom in life, the world won’t end if I don’t post as regularly.

People do understand and are very supportive.

However, we can’t stay ‘down’ forever and we need to get back up and start living again. Not always easy but this week, I’m sharing ways which I feel helps me when I’m going through a difficult time and want to rise above it.

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. A sudden loss. A health scare. A broken relationship. A dream that just doesn’t work out. It can feel like the rug has been pulled out from under us—and we’re left wondering whether we have the mental strength to begin again.

But here’s what I’ve learned and remind myself of when dark times happen:

You have gotten through 100% of your hardest days. You are still here. And you can get back up.

It doesn’t have to be all at once.

Sometimes getting back up means just sitting with the pain for a while and then choosing to take one small step forward. Other times, it means resting deeply so that you can rise stronger, mentally and physically. Rescheduling appointments (or podcast interviews in my case), taking a step back from the world before you can step forward again. Finding solace in a favourite book.

I’ve had seasons in life that felt impossible to navigate—but over time, I discovered that even the smallest moments of hope, joy, or support helped me rise again. Whether it was lacing up my runners for a slow walk or run, talking with a trusted friend, or simply getting dressed and sipping my morning coffee in the stillness or early morning sunlight—these tiny acts became stepping stones back to myself.

If life feels too hard right now, please know this:

🌱 You are allowed to pause.
🌱 You are allowed to cry.
🌱 You are allowed to ask for help.
🌱 And you are absolutely capable of getting back up—on your terms, in your time.

Please note: I am not a medical professional. I am sharing what works for me and may help you. Reach out for professional assistance if you feel you need help.

Live Well Tip • Bloom Mantra • This Week’s Bold Move

🌟 Live Well Tip:
Give yourself permission to start small. One tiny action—like brushing your hair, writing a kind note to yourself, or stepping outside—can begin the shift.

🌸 Bloom Mantra:
"I bend, but I do not break. I rise when I’m ready. I bloom in my own time."

🔥 This Week’s Bold Move:
Reach out to someone you trust and simply say, “I need to talk.” Being vulnerable is a powerful step toward healing.

Let’s Talk About It

Do you feel overwhelmed by the endless advice on how to “bounce back”? Social media often shows glossy highlight reels that can make us feel like we’re falling short. But deep down, don’t you already know what your soul needs?

Let’s give ourselves space to do what feels right, not what we’re told we “should” be doing.

You are never alone on this journey. We all stumble—but we can also stand, grow, and bloom again. Keep going gently.

With love and belief in you,
Sue x
Coach & Creator of Life in Full Bloom
Women Living Well After 50

Would you like to try something new? Share your story

I’m always looking for guests for my Women Living Well After 50 Podcast. Not celebrities, but women who have a story to tell. Women who may not be in the spotlight but have something of interest to share with my audience. Women who are passionate about helping other women to bloom after 50.

If this sounds like you, and you want to step out of your comfort zone I’d love t hear from you. Just send me a quick email to sue@womenlivingwellafter50.com.au with your details and the topic you would like to discuss during an interview and let’s book a date and time. Could you also include your time zone. I live in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia so my time is AEST.

I can’t wait to hear from you.

The Women Living Well After 50 Podcast

Starting over after 50 - recovering from divorce on a journey of rediscovery

Happy Monday and welcome to Your Weekly Boost!

Each month I join four blogging friends to host the Wellness Reimagined link up. What started as a way of keeping each other accountable with our health and wellness goals has developed into a wonderful journey of discovery for us all. You can find links to their posts at the end.

I have decided to start moving some of my posts over to Substack from my Women Living Well After 50 Wordpress website. Wellness Reimagined will be one category that I’ve moved over this month.

Each month I will publish a Wellness Reimagined post here which I hope will encourage you to discover ways to enhance your own health and well being.

For this month’s Wellness Reimagined, I’m sharing a 30-day challenge that I did throughout June as well as some healthy recipes I made during the month.

Flexibility & Focus - 30 days of Yoga challenge

This month, I’m celebrating a small but powerful achievement—completing a 30-day yoga challenge, set for me by my physiotherapist to support my running, especially now I’m still running in my late sixties with no sign of stopping yet.

Although I’ve been running since I was 50, I have never had massages. For the last 12 months, I have been visiting the physiotherapist monthly for a sports massage which has been a game changer for this runner!

I have been training extra hard this year for some half marathon events and even though I stretch and have my massages, Ben (my lovely physio) suggested I should try daily yoga.

I’ve done yoga before but not kept at it regularly, however, I agreed to take his challenge - 30 days of yoga.

What began as a way to loosen tight hips and ease post-run recovery has turned into something I now look forward to daily. Whether I’m on the mat for 10 minutes or a full 30 or longer if I have time, I’m discovering the quiet strength that comes from simply showing up for myself.

One of the most nourishing discoveries along the way has been Yin Yoga. Unlike the flowing movements of vinyasa or the strength focus of power yoga, Yin is slow, still, and deep. Poses are held for several minutes, allowing time for the fascia (our connective tissue) to release tension and restore mobility. It’s gentle (did I write that? holding the poses can be challenging), meditative—and exactly what my ageing (and often tight!) runner’s body needs.

But Yin doesn’t just stretch my hamstrings; it stretches my perspective. As women over 50, we often feel like we have to be doing more, faster, stronger. Yin invites the opposite: softness, surrender, stillness. And in that stillness, I find clarity. My mind feels more focused. My breath, deeper. My body, grateful to be able to hold the pose.

This challenge has reminded me that wellness isn’t about intensity—it’s about intentionality. I’ll be continuing with daily yoga—because it’s more than a challenge now. It’s part of my daily rhythm of life and it complements my other areas of exercise - running, pilates and strength training.

Have you tried yoga? I found this YouTube series Yoga with Joelle which is especially good for runners, walkers or those of us who sit for long periods.

Focus

Eyesight After 60: Why Regular Eye Checks Matter

At 68 having regular eye checks are part of my health routine. I recently went for my regular checkup and whilst cataracts are there, they aren’t bad enough to require surgery at this point.

Did you know?

• 1 in 3 people over 65 has a vision-reducing eye disease. (American Academy of Ophthalmology)

• 90% of vision loss from conditions like glaucoma and diabetic eye disease is preventable with early detection and treatment. (World Health Organization)

• The risk of developing cataracts increases with age—by age 80, more than half of all people either have cataracts or have had surgery to remove them.

• Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 60, affecting 1 in 7 Australians over 50. (Macular Disease Foundation Australia)

• Uncorrected vision problems can double the risk of falls, which is one of the leading causes of injury in older adults.

Why It Matters for Wellbeing:

• Vision changes can be subtle. You might not notice a slow decline—but early eye checks catch problems before they impact your quality of life.

• Good vision supports independence, mobility, and mental clarity—you’re more likely to stay active, engaged, and safe.

• Eye health is linked to other health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and even neurological issues. Eye exams often detect these early.

• Maintaining good eyesight is crucial for reading, driving, hobbies, and social connection—all of which are linked to better cognitive health and happiness as we age.

✅ Take Action:

• Get a comprehensive eye exam every 1–2 years after age 60.

• Don’t ignore symptoms like blurry vision, floaters, difficulty with night vision, or light sensitivity.

• Wear sunglasses to protect against UV damage and eat eye-friendly foods like leafy greens, carrots, and omega-3 rich fish.

• Keep your glasses or contact lens prescriptions updated to avoid eye strain and accidents.

Nourishing from the Inside Out

This month, from necessity, I discovered two delicious recipes. Both of these are gluten-free and coeliac-friendly, so everyone can enjoy them. I’m sharing one recipe this month with you and will share the other in my Wellness Reimagined post next month.

Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad (Gluten-Free)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)

• 1 cup finely chopped parsley

• ½ cup finely chopped mint

• 1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes

• ½ cup finely chopped cucumber

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt & pepper to taste

Method:

1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, herbs, tomatoes, and cucumber.

2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

3. Season and toss gently.

4. Chill for 30 minutes to let the flavours meld.

Perfect as a light lunch or side dish—fresh, zesty, and protein-packed.

🌸 Final Thoughts

Wellness evolves. What once felt like a chore can become a joy. A 30-day challenge might just become a lifelong practice. And a mindful moment on the mat can ripple through the rest of your day.

Here’s to reimagining wellness as something gentle, joyful, and yours—at every age.

In health and wellbeing

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Your turn…

We invite you to join us as we discover our own Wellness Reimagined and what that means for our health and wellness. The link up will be open for 48 hours. Just click on the link below:

Wellness Reimagined Link Up

Remember to pop over and visit my lovely co-hosts so see what they are doing to stay and health and active.

Debbie Harris – Deb’s World
Donna Connolly – Retirement Reflections
Jennifer Jones – The Retirement Phase
Joanne Tracey – And Anyways

This is a fascinating episode discussing equine therapy.

In this episode, my guest is Sue Willoughby, a truth teller, boundary-breaker, and certified Equus Coach® who helps women over 40 stop playing small and start living like they mean it.

Sue has a different coaching approach and with horses as her co-facilitators, she cuts through the noise to help clients reconnect with their power, ditch burnout, and trust their instincts

Today we are going to be talking about Living Beyond the comfort zone to build a life that feels as good as it looks.

Watch the Video

Meet Sue Willoughby

Raised tough, lived wild, and rebuilt from the ground up, Sue brings real talk, deep heart, and a no-fluff approach to personal transformation. Based outside Seattle with her horse Moose and two mini Dachshunds, she’s here to help you stop surviving and start showing up for your life.

Connect with Sue

Website: www.willoughbycoaching.com

Podcast: A Life Worth Being

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SueWilloughby

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

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“You don’t need a new year to begin again — just a moment to pause, realign, and refresh the path ahead.”

We’ve crossed the halfway point of the year, which is a perfect time to take a pause, a breath and gently check in. No judgment, no pressure — just a moment of reflection and realignment. Think of it as a soft reset.

We start a New Year full of optimism, vigour and excitement, but by mid-year life can become heavy and we start feeling drained, distracted, or disconnected from the intentions we once held so clearly.

Perhaps our goals or plans no longer align with what we want from life. We’ve changed our mind or our path - and that’s fine.

Mid-year is the perfect time to Realign & Refresh: Writing the Next Chapter of Your Year

Here’s how you can realign for the next six months with purpose and heart:

1. Reflect with Honesty & Compassion

Look back on the past six months with curiosity, not criticism.
Ask yourself:

• What felt aligned and energizing?

• What drained me or felt off-course?

• What surprised me — in good or challenging ways?

Honest reflection gives clarity. Compassion helps us carry the lessons, not the guilt.

2. Reconnect to What Matters Now

We grow. Priorities shift. It’s okay if what mattered in January isn’t what matters now.
Try journaling or meditating on:

• What truly lights me up now?

• Where do I want to gently focus my energy?

• What version of me do I want to meet by December?

Use these insights to set a new course — even a small one.

3. Reset Your Rhythm

Big goals are great, but tiny, joyful habits shape our days.

• Could your mornings use a refresh?

• Would a weekly pause help you feel more present?

• Is there a routine or boundary that would support your wellbeing?

Think of it as editing the pace of your story — not just the plot.

4. Reimagine the Possibilities

You are not bound by the first half of the year. The next six months are a blank canvas.
Give yourself permission to:

• Start something new

• Let something go

• Try a different path

• Reignite something you paused

Your story is still unfolding — and you’re the author.

Isn’t that exciting!

Have a beautiful week exploring new possibilities!

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When I first launched the Women Living Well After 50 podcast, back on 1st August, 2020, I had no idea how deeply it would enrich my own life. What began as a platform to share stories, tips, and inspiration for women over 50 has become one of the greatest sources of joy, connection, and personal growth for me.

I need to mention my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all of my listeners and I hope that in some way my podcast has helped you to live well and enjoy life.

During an interview last week, the thought sprang to mind 'I love doing this, it fulfils me' and there it was. After 177 episodes I'm still enjoying meeting women and sharing their stories. There have been time when I thought of finishing and indeed have taken breaks in between 'Seasons' but right now, I know I will keep going.

How does my Podcast Women Living Well After 50 bring me Joy and fulfillment?

Real Conversations, Real Women

Each time I sit down with a guest, I'm reminded of the extraordinary power of women’s stories. These aren’t celebrities or influencers. They’re women just like you and me—navigating life after 50 with courage, curiosity, and heart. They've launched businesses, overcome health challenges, rediscovered passions, embraced change, and dared to dream again.

Every interview is a reminder that midlife and beyond is not a time to slow down or fade into the background—it's a time to bloom.

Joy in Connection

There is something profoundly joyful about connection. When I press "record," it feels like I’m inviting a friend over for a cup of tea and a good chat. We laugh, we sometimes cry, and we always learn from each other. I walk away from each episode feeling inspired, energized, and grateful—often with new ideas and perspectives that challenge me to live more fully.

Learning from Every Guest

The beauty of this podcast is that I am constantly learning. Whether it’s discovering a new wellness practice, hearing how someone navigated a life transition, or picking up a practical tip for daily living, I walk away with nuggets of wisdom that I then apply to my own life. It’s like having a mentor in every episode.

A Sense of Purpose

The podcast gives me purpose. Knowing that these conversations are reaching other women—reminding them they’re not alone, sparking a new idea, or encouraging them to take that first step toward something they’ve always wanted—fills me with deep satisfaction. It reinforces my mission to help women over 50 live well, feel strong, and embrace life on their own terms.

An Invitation to You

If you haven’t tuned in yet, I invite you to listen. And if you’re a woman over 50 with a story to share—big or small—I would love to hear from you. Whether you’ve reinvented your life, taken on a new challenge, overcome a setback, or simply want to inspire others by living authentically, your story matters.

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast, or know someone who would be a wonderful fit, please reach out to me by email at sue@womenlivingwellafter50.com.au. I’m always looking for new voices to amplify and celebrate.

Because the more we share, the more we grow. And for me, that is the true joy of podcasting.

I look forward to hearing and sharing your story.

The Joy of Podcasting with Friends - The Simply Stunning Classic Book Club Podcast

In my recent post, #WOYBS? – June 2025 – Our first episode of the Simply Stunning Classic Book Club podcast is LIVE, I wrote how our online book club achieved something we've been dreaming about for some time. We started a Podcast, recording our Online Book Club discussions and have been thrilled with the response to our first episode. It is an exciting new project to share with three of my dearest friends from the blogging world - Joanne Tracey (author) who is also in the role of editing the recording, Debbie Harris from Deb's World and Donna Connolly from Retirement Reflections If you missed it, you can listen to it HERE and subscribe so you don't miss any episode.

I'm linking up to Wednesday Words and Whimsy hosted by Min from Write of the Middle. Be sure to pop over to her blog and say hello to her.

Subscribe now