Updates from Maria Custode

Strength After 60: Why I Care About Muscle More Than the Scale

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 12:46:46 CDT

Eating Less After 50 Isn’t Always the Answer | What to Do Instead

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:14:00 CDT

As we navigate the changes that come with age, simply eating less often falls short of the results we seek. Instead, shifting focus to what the body truly needs can unlock greater strength, energy, and freedom. Prioritizing elements like protein-rich meals, movement that supports an active lifestyle, and quality sleep creates a foundation for lasting vitality. This approach moves beyond restriction toward habits that fit seamlessly into daily life and special moments alike. Discover how these thoughtful adjustments can make healthy living feel more sustainable and rewarding.

How Much Protein Do Women Over 50 Need?

Sun, 30 Aug 2026 12:15:00 CDT

Protein takes on a whole new level of importance after 50, and it has far less to do with bodybuilding than with staying strong, capable, and independent in everyday life. This post explores why midlife and beyond can change your protein needs, how eating too little may affect everything from balance to energy, and why timing protein throughout the day can matter just as much as the total amount. It also cuts through common myths about protein and weight loss while offering a realistic, sustainable way to think about meals without chasing perfection. If you've ever assumed you were probably getting enough, this is the kind of read that may make you take a much closer look.

Why Your Body Responds Differently After 50 (And What to Do Differently)

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 16:09:00 CDT

Fat Storage After 50: Why Your Body Holds Onto Weight Differently

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 13:45:00 CDT

If weight gain after 50 feels confusing—especially when you’re still making healthy choices—this post unpacks the real reasons your body may be responding differently now. It explores how shifts in hormones, muscle mass, blood sugar, stress, and sleep can all play a role in stubborn belly fat and changing body composition, and why eating less and pushing harder isn’t always the answer. Most importantly, it offers a refreshing, realistic approach to supporting metabolism, strength, energy, and confidence in this season of life. If you’re ready to stop fighting your body and start understanding what it truly needs, this is a must-read.

"I Forgot I Was Allowed to Want Things." — A Conversation I'll Never Forget

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 09:35:00 CDT

Have you ever suddenly realized that you have completely forgotten how to want things for yourself? For so many of us, years spent nurturing our families, building careers, and supporting everyone else leaves our own wellness pushed to the very bottom of the priority list. We constantly tell ourselves that we will focus on our health, energy, and dreams "someday," only to watch those days quietly turn into decades. It is time to discover why desiring a life filled with vibrant health, restful sleep, and joyful energy isn't selfish—it is beautifully human. Read on to uncover the powerful mindset shift that changes everything, and learn how stepping into a Young Living wellness journey can help you finally embrace your most confident, radiant chapter yet.

Why High-Intensity Exercise May Raise Cortisol and Affect Heart Health After Menopause

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 14:43:08 CDT

Could pushing harder in the gym actually be working against heart health after menopause? This post explores the surprising connection between high-intensity exercise, cortisol, and why too much stress on the body can backfire for women over 55. It also reveals the warning signs that a workout routine may be doing more harm than good, along with a smarter, more sustainable approach to movement, recovery, and whole-body wellness. If you’ve ever wondered whether exhaustion is really the goal, this is a must-read.

After menopause, the old "no pain, no gain" approach to fitness may actually be working against you. When your hormones shift, your body's stress response changes too—and constantly pushing yourself to exhaustion can increase cortisol levels, drain your energy, and slow your progress instead of accelerating it. The good news? Your heart, muscles, and metabolism don't need punishing workouts to thrive; they respond beautifully to consistent, moderate movement paired with smart strength training and genuine recovery. If you've been wondering why harder workouts aren't delivering the results they once did, it's not you—it's your changing body asking for a smarter approach to exercise. Discover why slowing down might actually be the fastest path to long-term health, strength, and the energy to enjoy the life you've worked so hard to build.

Napping After 55: Healing or Hindering? What the Science Really Says

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:27:15 CDT

10 Things Every Strong Woman Needs to Hear Today (Especially After 50)

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:50:00 CDT

Do you know a strong woman who seamlessly handles every detail, constantly carries the weight of the world on her shoulders, and always claims she is simply "fine"? All too often, the women who spend their lives nurturing everyone else forget that their own holistic wellness, rest, and vitality are absolutely essential. Explore ten vital reminders every resilient woman needs to hear right now about embracing guilt-free rest, listening to her body, and rediscovering her true identity beyond her daily caregiving roles. Uncover why investing in your personal health is never selfish, and learn how to finally move your own name to the very top of your priority list. Dive into the full post for the ultimate encouragement to start honoring your well-being today—perhaps supported by the pure, natural vitality of Young Living—because you truly deserve the exact same care you so freely give to others.

The Truth About Diets: Why Most Fail (and What Actually Works After 50)

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 10:17:00 CDT