Editor’s letter
Ageing gets a bad rap – but what’s the alternative? You either age or you’re on the first bus out of here, so people should cherish every year they get older.
We live in a youth-obsessed culture that tells us if we’re not hot, we don’t matter. What poppycock! I refuse to listen. I’ve got two words to say to all that rubbish about women becoming invisible after 40: “Helen Mirren”. What a fox! She’s frisky, funny and not afraid to tell it like it is. Did I mention she’s 71? I want to be just like her when I grow up. I’m so pleased I live in a generation that is finally celebrating stars over 40 when 20 years ago, that was the passed-your-use-by date in Hollywood!
That said, I’m as guilty as anyone of moments of selfdoubt as I head towards the half-century mark. I moan and grown about the gifts Mother Nature has given me since passing 40 – just as full eyebrows finally become fashionable, mine started to thin permanently. I think they’ve relocated to my chin. Once an hourglass, I’ve become an overripe apple. And don’t get me started on what cruel tricks gravity is playing on my wobbliest bits.
We all like help to look and feel fabulous, and this week we have loads of easy health, beauty and fashion tips for ageing gracefully, because looking chic has nothing to do with a number. It’s how you feel.
I’ve got pretty good stamina, yet like you busy readers, I too get tired with the eternal home/ work juggle. But thanks to the advice of my friend and Travel Editor Sarah-Kate Lynch, last week I was whisked away to the Gwinganna health retreat in Oz.
For seven days, I was up at sunrise and in bed by 8.30pm, exercising, eating nutritious food, attending wellness talks, being pampered and totally relaxing in between. No kids, no work, no responsibilities – and no phones or laptops! It was a true detox.
I came home a new woman. I honestly felt 10 years younger! It was a life-changing trip and I couldn’t wait to tell my family all about it. As I hugged my kids tight, my heart bursting with happiness, I realised I had the secret to staying young right under my roof – my kids. Have a great week.