They say you’re only as old as you feel and, personally, I’d like to believe age has a little gray area. 40ish is definitely a thing. Some mornings I feel every year I’ve been alive, especially after a night of homework help, late-night laundry, and early drop-off. But other days? I’m fluffing my curls in the mirror thinking: “Girl, you still got it.” Staying young at heart isn’t about turning back the clock, it’s more about leaning into routines that remind you of your light, your energy, and your joy. Here are the ones that keep me feeling young while juggling motherhood and life in the city.
Looking Good: Because Self-Care Shows
When I take the time to invest in how I look, I automatically stand taller and smile brighter. For me, that means carving out regular facials, pedicures, and the occasional splurge at a DC spa.
• Facials & Pampering: LaserAway & Ever/Body are great, quick refresh spots. If I want a full luxury vibe, the spa at Equinox City Ridge gives me everything in one place: skin treatments, massage, and a sauna to melt the stress away.
• Pedis with Personality: A Nail Saloon pedicure feels indulgent, especially when paired with a matching pedi for my tween daughter. They even blew bubbles around her and gave her lemonade in a sparkly cup. It’s a great way to get in quality mommy/daughter conversation while getting some pampering in.
These small rituals aren’t just about looking polished. They’re my reminder that taking care of myself is not optional — it’s essential.
Moving Your Body: Energy Is the Fountain of Youth
Exercise keeps my energy high, my mood balanced, and my body strong enough to keep up with my kids. I don’t believe in boring workouts. I’ve got to laugh and smile while breaking a sweat to stick with it.
• BOOMBOX Boxing Club in Navy Yard is a place for learning a great right hook and shedding a lot of stress. Their music-driven workouts are equal parts cardio and therapy with the vibe of the never forgotten dc nightclubs we used to know and love.
• Equinox City Ridge is where I go for strength training, HIIT, or a grounding yoga flow. Plus, I can sneak in spa time after my workout, efficiency at its finest.
• When I want to really feel 20ish? District Zouk. Brazilian Zouk dancing keeps me connected with musicality, community, and joy.
It’s impossible to walk out of class without a grin (and some sore muscles I didn’t know existed). Movement like this doesn’t just tone the body, it keeps me feeling feminine and playful.
Staying Social: Connection Is the Secret Sauce
Parenting can get pretty isolating if you let it, but I’ve learned that surrounding myself with friends and community is non-negotiable.
• Check-In Calls: Even a ten-minute phone call with a friend or my sisters keeps me grounded. It’s not about long conversations, just consistent connection.
• Brunch Dates: DC does brunch like no other city. I love anywhere with a view when I need good food, laughter, and a mimosa or two.
• Friendship + Coffee: Sometimes, it’s as simple as sneaking to Tatte with a girlfriend to sip, vent, and reset.
The truth? Staying social isn’t about being everywhere with everyone. It’s about nurturing the relationships that lift you up and remind you of who you are outside of motherhood.
Creating a routine that includes a little pampering, joyful movement, and genuine connection are my recipe for feeling young no matter how hectic life gets. They remind me that motherhood doesn’t erase my individuality, it enriches it.
The next time you’re tempted to say you’re “too old” or “too tired” for something, cut it out. Book the facial, sign up for the dance class, schedule the brunch. As the saying goes, age ain’t nothing but a number, and there’s nothing standing between you and youthful energy. Here’s to feeling every bit of amazing as you deserve.
. Recommendations for pampering, toning, and celebrating life.){kind=link}