Growing older without children

As Many of us find ourselves turning 50, single and without children, we could find ourselves in

a space of loneliness and despair, as this was not the life we imagined. I invite you to turn this

narrative on its head. Look for the positives, what are the things that you do have in abundance,

do you have lots of free time, do you have no one dependent on you?

How can you live your best full life, for the next 5o years.

First of all its important to direct your gaze inwards, what do you need, how can you fill your cup

up. Can you improve your diet, your gut health, who are you? What do you enjoy? How can you

express yourself fully? You could take inspiration from the instagram page advanced style.

Older people in New york, expressing themselves fully through their clothes. Closer to home

check out Luinluland who encourages women to wear whatever they want, and organises

womens meet ups and clothes swaps.

Humans are heart centred creatures, so it's important to find your tribe. There is a great app

called meetup, where you can meet like minded people. The library or local community centre is

a great place to find short courses. Volunteering for a project close to your heart, not only gives

something back, but studies have shown being of service is great for brain health and life

longevity. Watch the netflix series Blue zones, people living to 100+, these people have a great

sense of community, good food, exercise and personal interests.

When we have been busy having a career, it can be difficult to think about things that interest us

or bring us joy, think back to your childhood, and remember what delighted you then, you might

find the same joy as an adult. It's just about giving things away, and being open to trying new

things.

The time is now to plan for your future housing situation. There is a new way of living called

cohousing, where older people come together to live together. This is a fairly new concept in the

uk, but it is taking off. If community on a large scale isn't your thing perhaps living with a friend

or two might be helpful.

Getting out there, meeting new people, making plans for new ways of living could all feel very

anxiety provoking, remember anxiety and excitement share similar responses in the brain, both

activating the sympathetic nervous system. When you feel anxious, it can be helpful to say out

loud, I feel excited about the thing you felt anxious about, and this can redirect the energy. After

all, meeting new people, filling your life with new and exciting projects, might just feel rather

wonderful.