I tried 50 new things before turning 50 – it changed my mindset

A transformative journey of personal discovery, undertaken by Lisa de-Laune, has blossomed into a vibrant community aimed at redefining the narrative around mid-life for women. Faced with a confluence of challenging life events, including a hysterectomy that precipitated menopause, a divorce, and a persistent battle with endometriosis, Lisa, now 52, found herself at a crossroads. Instead of succumbing to the difficulties, she embarked on an ambitious personal project: to experience 50 entirely new things before reaching her 50th birthday. This courageous undertaking, ranging from the meditative practice of yoga and the exhilarating experience of solo travel to the rhythmic embrace of salsa dancing and the adventurous culinary exploration of oysters, was her strategic manoeuvre to "take back control" of her life. Her personal triumph has since inspired the creation of "Women In Wellness," a thriving support network based in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, designed to foster connection and uplift women navigating similar life stages.

The "Women In Wellness" network, which convenes monthly, extends a warm invitation not only to professionals within the wellness industry but to any woman seeking to prioritise and enhance her own wellbeing. The initial sessions are thoughtfully curated to address pressing concerns such as menopause and endometriosis, common yet often under-discussed aspects of women’s health. Amy Haynes, a 39-year-old member from North Somerset, attests to the profound positive impact of this supportive environment. "It’s been ‘positive’ having a group to connect with where I can say ‘actually, I’m not OK’," she shares, highlighting the invaluable space the network provides for authentic vulnerability.

Reflecting on the period leading up to her 50th birthday, Lisa vividly recalls the overwhelming confluence of physical health challenges, the emotional turmoil of separation, and the uncertainties of career transitions. "It was hard, there was a lot of uncertainty," she admits. Yet, her unwavering determination to approach this chapter with a positive outlook and a proactive stance fuelled her quest. "I wanted to go into that period of my life in a positive way and take back control," she asserts. This personal challenge fundamentally shifted her perspective on ageing and mid-life. Prior to this transformative period, Lisa had built a career in corporate roles, specialising in risk compliance and health and safety. However, her self-discovery journey ignited a new passion: to inspire other women to embrace a similar mindset shift and to actively cultivate their wellbeing.

This newfound purpose led to the establishment of "Fifty Firsts Wellness," a business venture that complements the "Women In Wellness" network. Through coaching, training sessions, and workshops, Lisa now dedicates herself to empowering women to unlock their potential and prioritise their holistic health. "The whole turmoil at that time, now that I’ve reflected, feels like an opportunity that was handed to me," she reflects, a testament to her profound ability to find silver linings in adversity.

The ripple effect of Lisa’s initiative is palpable among the members. Amy Haynes further elaborates on the network’s influence: "Women sometimes can get a bit forgotten, like wellness is not something I’d massively thought about." She credits the group with fostering greater self-assurance. "It’s given me more confidence to think about myself. I now think about my wellness more and don’t plough everything I have into my family." This sentiment underscores the critical need for spaces where women can reclaim their identity and prioritise self-care amidst the demands of life.

The "Women In Wellness" network is not just a local initiative; it’s a growing movement. Lisa is actively extending its reach, leading a free virtual event for women in the South West and Wales scheduled for April 21st. This expansion signifies a broader commitment to disseminating the principles of mindful living and mutual support, ensuring that more women have the opportunity to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and empowerment. The underlying philosophy is clear: mid-life, often perceived as a period of decline, can instead be a powerful springboard for growth, resilience, and a deeper connection with oneself and others. Lisa’s story serves as a compelling reminder that embracing new experiences, even seemingly small ones, can profoundly reshape our outlook and unlock a more fulfilling and empowered future, proving that the path to wellbeing is often paved with a willingness to step outside our comfort zones and try something new. The initiative, born from personal adversity, has cultivated a sanctuary for shared experience, mutual encouragement, and the collective celebration of women’s journeys through the vibrant tapestry of mid-life and beyond. The concept of "Fifty Firsts" is not merely a challenge completed but a philosophy adopted, encouraging continuous exploration and personal evolution at any age.