Dancing in Midlife

In midlife, women can feel invisible. Dreams from youth get abandoned in a tidal wave of children and responsibilities. Then you are spat out the other side feeling lost and lacking purpose. It is easy to forget where you started. Bettina Deda, Author and Wellness Coach, tells us how to navigate our way through this stage of life with grace and ease.

Did you always want to write a book, learn to dance, start a new hobby, or give back to the community?

Do you find yourself thinking that you are going to do it ‘one day’ when you have more time, are retired, or the kids have moved out?

Unfortunately for many people, this day never comes.

On 31 December 2016, a 90-minute Kahuna massage turned my life upside down. It is in these pivotal moments when we have two options; we can use them as a springboard to change or stay in our comfort zone and become a victim of our circumstances.

I chose to change and set out on a journey of exploration and transformation, which requires courage, trust, and faith. I also made some conscious choices to navigate this challenging time of my life.

Here are my five tips to navigate midlife smoothly:

TIP #1: ASK FOR HELP

What are you missing out on because you are not asking? Get help from a life coach, natural health practitioner or become part of a supportive community that has your back. There are many opportunities online and in person to connect, learn, and embrace change.

TIP #2: ESTABLISH A MORNING ROUTINE Establishing routines is the most powerful

lever to get things done. To start the day centred and grounded, try meditation, yoga, journaling on intentions and goals, and practising gratitude.

TIP #3: SHIFT YOUR ENERGY

Are you finding yourself stuck in negative emotions? Energy is everything. How can you shift your energy to positive emotions? A simple exercise is to remind yourself of moments when you felt happy and empowered. Close your eyes, imagine yourself in that moment, and take three deep breaths. Go where you find joy. Connect with nature through daily walks.

TIP #4: SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE PEOPLE

You are the average of the five people you spend your time with. Who are these people in your life? Set boundaries around your day, activities, and the people you deal with.

TIP #5: EMBRACE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Choose healthier living and eating habits that fuel your body and mind to show up at your best. Consider changes in your diet, do a body cleanse, take up a new hobby, and learn how to meditate and live more mindfully.

Remember: In every moment, we have a choice–a choice between a grievance and a miracle. So choose wisely!

Are you ready to bring fun and purpose back into your life? Visit my website or give me a call on 0424 615 503. •

BOOK REVIEW

Let Bettina's passionate spirit inspire you to follow your dreams

In this coming-of-age story, Bettina stands at the crossroads that so many women before her have navigated.

Bettina had no idea that a massage could change her life, but that is exactly what happened during a 90-minute spiritual dance that turned her life upside down.

Many chapters in her life had come to an end and a new path was emerging. Rather than hurtling through her days, she started feeling her way through each moment.

Her memoir centres on her big year of change and the eventual realisation that she was living her mother's life, not her own.

The process of finding her own truth leads her to a new love: ballroom dancing.

By putting her life and learning into perspective, Bettina offers an empowering read for those wishing to celebrate the second half of their lives.

RRP $24.99 | ISBN 9783981812244 BUY FROM AMAZON OR IN YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE. 0424 615 503 // BETTINA@BETTINADEDA.COM INSTA: @BETTINA_DEDA // bettinadeda.com