Simple Ways to Add Zest to Life After 50!

Have you ever woken up and thought it feels a little like Groundhog Day? Or maybe just feel a little blah…another day. There was a time when I got up each morning Monday through Friday and had the same routine over and over. I would try to add some spark to the weekend, but the weekend was met with a lot of chores.

I had a good routine, but I became burned out with all the to-dos. That burnout led me to take a completely different approach in life after 50. Now, it’s about checking in with myself and making sure I have balance between what needs to be done and what’s good for my soul.

It doesn’t take much to add zest to life after 50. A few small upgrades can transform a simple day from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some of my favorites. Practices I’ve either adopted or plan to start. Some boost joy; some improve health, but they all help you add more zest to everyday life.

Before You Jump In…

Keep it simple. The entire premise is to add more fun, joy, health, or whatever feels like it’s missing from your daily life after 50.

Revamp Your Morning Routine

• Lemon Water Boost: Starting the day with warm lemon water can aid digestion, hydrate, and give a fresh start. I just started this and love it. Nearly two weeks in and hoping to keep it up!

• Stretch it Out: A simple 5–10-minute stretching routine can wake up the body and improve circulation. I’m still doing my two sessions of 5-minute yoga, and the benefits are amazing. I feel so much more limber and toned.

• Mindfulness Moment: Spend 5 minutes focusing on your breath or practicing gratitude. I know a few of you journal, read your Bible, or simply count your blessings. I’ve been reading a chapter of a book each morning after yoga, with my first cup of coffee. Oh, and then my Wordle!

Plants or Flowers Add Beauty and a Touch of Nature

Trader Joe's has lots of inexpensive flowers!

• Low-Maintenance Plants: Try easy options like snake plants or pothos.

• DIY Terrarium: A small indoor garden in a glass container with succulents is such a joy. I remember my son doing this for a school project.

• Flower Power: Fresh flowers add color and fragrance. Rotate seasonal blooms for variety. Pick them up at Trader Joe’s or Krogers.

These simple touches help bring zest into life after 50. Visually and emotionally.

Upgrade Your Meals

Don’t save your old wedding china or your grandmother’s dishes for a special occasion. Use them now. Make a regular evening feel special.

Try adding new ingredients to old recipes. Sauteed pecans on your salad or melted pepper jack on baked chicken can make a difference. One of my goals this year is to try one new dish each week. Anything from a salad dressing to a new sauce.

When dining out, enjoy the full experience not just the food. Savor the conversation and atmosphere. That’s how we bring zest to life after 50 even in everyday routines.

Embrace Movement

• Micro Workouts: Set a timer for 5 minutes and do quick exercises like jumping jacks or squats. It’s easy to do when it’s short.

• Outdoor Explorations: Nearby parks and trails offer a refreshing change of scenery. Even a walk around the block delivers a dopamine hit!

Declutter and Simplify

A decluttered home can lift your spirit. Don’t tackle the whole house. One drawer is a great start.

Marie Kondo’s approach, only keep what you love or need, makes sense. If you find a home for everything, you’ll naturally tidy up. I’m not quite there yet, but working on it!

A weekly 15–20-minute tidy-up session can make a big difference. I fit it in either morning or night depending on the day.

Simplifying is one way to gain energy and add zest to your life after 50.

Prioritize Self-Care

A nightly routine can be life-changing. Think skincare, turning off electronics, and winding down for better sleep.

Remember, our bodies repair during sleep. Eating well, taking vitamins, and drinking water all help. Water cures a lot of ills!

Connect with Others

Human connection is a powerful way to add zest to life after 50.

Reach out to old friends. Join a community group. Pick up a new social hobby. I’m fortunate to be part of several groups that keep me engaged and it makes a difference.

Try Something New

• Hobby Exploration: Learning to crochet, playing pickleball, or diving into a new craft can lift your spirits.

• Local Discoveries: Museums, parks, and local events offer new adventures. One of my goals this year is to visit new restaurants and explore more local gems.

Where can you add more zest to your life after 50? Think about the small, simple upgrades that can shift your days from routine to revitalizing.

Start simple. Start today.

Have a beautiful day!