Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, a reflection of how the world views us.
– Plato
Over the centuries, there have been remarkably different thoughts on what makes a woman beautiful. Even today, there is no true consensus. In one part of the world, certain physical attributes are valued that would be viewed as unattractive in another.
For many Americans, however, there seems to be one essential characteristic that defines beauty more so than any other: youth.
Many other countries view older women as sexy and desirable, and value their contributions to society. But too often, aging in America is regarded more as a disease to be cured than as the natural and beautiful progression of life.
After turning 50 a few years ago, I came to understand what it truly means to be beautiful. It isn’t about having fewer wrinkles, less gray hair, or the bodies we had in college. It’s about embracing our age, celebrating who we are now, and becoming fearless about the future.
I put myself on a life-changing path of self-love and care that allowed me to become as fit and healthy as possible, giving me the strength and stamina to do all the things I want—and need—to do in life. My new approach to positive aging made me feel stronger and more beautiful than ever.
Here’s a simple sentence that has become my personal mantra:
We can’t control getting older . . . but . . . we can control how we do it.
It’s all about taking control of your life and being responsible for the health and well-being of your body, mind and spirit as you age by doing simple things like moving your body, eating well, and staying engaged with the world.
This is the essence of positive living . . . and beautiful aging. No doubt Plato would agree.
Please join me online on Thursday, November 19th at 5:30 ET/2:30 PT as we gather together to celebrate beautiful aging, debunk myths about getting older, and motivate women to embrace their age. This free event will convene thought leaders and experts (I’m honored to be included!) who focus on beauty and aging, and is brought to you by SeeMe Beauty and Disrupt Aging®. Moderated by Michelle Lee, editor in chief of Allure, the panel will kickstart an open, honest discussion about this incredibly important stage of life.
PRE-REGISTER FOR THIS FREE ONE-HOUR EVENT BY CLICKING HERE.
This post is made possible with support from AARP’s Disrupt Aging®. All opinions are my own.
