Embracing the Big 4-0: Sober, Soaked, and Seizing Life
Treat YoSelf
The big 4-0. A milestone so loaded it feels like a philosophical debate between "You're only as old as you feel" and "Why does my back hurt for no reason now?" Today, I’m officially 40, and let me tell you, I’ve been feeling all the things — some dark, some luminous, but mostly this weird electric buzz of possibility. And no, that buzz isn’t from a bottle; it’s from a deeper place of clarity and self-love. Let’s talk about it.
Yesterday, as a little birthday prelude, I prioritized myself. Instead of numbing the “Oh-my-god-I’m-turning-40” feels with a drink (or three), I leaned into my wellness groove. First stop: skiing freshies at my favorite ski resort. Second stop: a hot tub session. Soaking with a blue sky overhead, I let the warm water melt the stress of aging. The jets hit that sweet spot on my lower back, which, let’s face it, is now an unspoken focal point of my existence.
During my soak, I cracked open a hop water (HopWtr Dry Hopped is my fave!). If you haven’t discovered this delightful nectar yet, you’re missing out. All the crisp, floral juice of hops, none of the buzz (the alcohol kind, at least). It’s like drinking a fizzy promise that you can enjoy life without compromise.
The cherry on top of my self-care sundae? A face mask. Fifteen minutes of creamy, hydrating bliss that made me feel like I’d shed not just dead skin but also a few existential worries.
Now, let’s talk about tonight. I’m going to celebrate the start of my fifth decade by doing something that sets my soul on fire: dancing. Not just any dancing — I’m talking full-body, euphoric, struck-by-lightning kind of dancing to the beats of one of my favorite DJs, Nora En Pure. (Thanks, Nora, for coming to Park City for my birthday!!) Picture me on the dance floor, moving like I’m having the most epic, joyous seizure of my life. No alcohol needed, just pure, unfiltered vibes.
Yes, turning 40 comes with its share of shadowy introspection. Did I hit all the marks I thought I would by now? Nope. Do I sometimes miss the recklessness of my younger self? Sure, sometimes. But I’ve also got something younger me could never fully grasp: wisdom. Wisdom that deep relationships and meaningful connection matter more than status, to practice gratitude every day, and to cherish a healthy body over chasing a skinny model figure.
So here’s to the next decade: to more hop water and less hangovers, more self-care and fewer self-criticisms, and to dancing like no one is watching (and not caring if they are). If this is what 40 looks like, I’m ready to seize it — metaphorically, of course.
Cheers to wiser, happier living, one epic moment at a time.