Turning 65 and Choosing to Thrive: My Honest Journey to Aging Well
Aging Well is a Choice
Aging well is not about pretending we do not get older. It is about choosing how we care for ourselves, how we think, and how we continue to live with purpose.
I recently turned 65. And I’ll be honest — I’ve been reflecting a lot.
The journey hasn’t always been easy. Life has brought its share of challenges that have tested me in ways I never expected. But every one of those experiences has made me stronger, wiser, and more committed to living fully.
My biggest wake-up call? Being diagnosed with kidney cancer — despite living a consciously healthy lifestyle for most of my adult life. I exercised. I ate well. I studied nutrition, positive psychology, and longevity. And yet there I was.
I won’t pretend I handled it gracefully at first. I was bitter. The doctors had no answers for why it happened to someone who had worked so hard to take care of herself. There was no explanation — and that was its own kind of painful.
But here’s what they DID tell me: my commitment to healthy living meant I would heal faster and more easily from surgery than most. My hard work hadn’t prevented the cancer — but it had prepared my body to fight back.
That changed everything for me. It shifted my bitterness into gratitude. Not immediately — but eventually.
I don’t usually share personal things like this. But I’m sharing it now because maybe something in my story will resonate with you. Maybe you’re going through something that feels unfair. Maybe you’re doing everything right and life still handed you something hard. If that’s you — I see you. And I want you to know it’s still worth choosing health, happiness, and yourself.
Aging on My Own Terms
As I move into this next chapter, my focus is simple. Prioritize health and happiness unapologetically. Age on my own terms. Live with purpose every single day.
I’ve made peace with aging naturally. I haven’t done anything cosmetic to my skin — not yet, and perhaps not ever. That’s my personal choice, and I hold it lightly. I’m genuinely grateful that options exist for all of us if and when we want them. We get to decide what makes us feel our best. That’s the whole point.
Do I bleach my hair? Absolutely. As I like to say — we all pick our poisons. What matters is that the choices I make come from a place of self-love, not fear.
What the Blue Zones Taught Me
As a certified coach and positive psychology practitioner, I’ve spent years studying the Blue Zones — the regions of the world where people routinely live past 100 in good health and with genuine happiness.
What’s their secret? It’s not a supplement or a surgery. It’s purpose, community, movement, plant-rich food, and meaning. It’s waking up every morning with a reason to get up.
That’s what I help my clients build. And at 65, it’s what I’m building more intentionally for myself too.
I do Blue Zone lifestyle presentations and would love to bring that to your community, workplace, or wellness group. Because this isn’t just about living longer — it’s about living better.
Why I’m Sharing This
I run a coaching practice that I love deeply. Every day I get to watch my clients make real, positive changes in their lives. That is the most rewarding work I can imagine.
But I also know that many people are standing at a crossroads — wondering what this next chapter is supposed to look like. Wondering if it’s too late to prioritize themselves. Wondering if happiness is still something they get to choose.
It is. I promise you it is.
If you’re navigating midlife, a health scare, or simply asking “what now?” — I’d love to talk. I work with men and women of all ages — virtually worldwide and in person in New Jersey and Florida.
Your best chapter may be the one you haven’t written yet.
Book a complimentary consultation at gemmahealthcoach.com
Gemma Nastasi, PCC, NBC-HWC is a Professional Certified Life & Health Coach, Positive Psychology Practitioner, and author based in Red Bank, NJ.
Easy Banana Ice Cream: A Healthy Dairy-Free Dessert
If you are looking for a simple dairy-free dessert, banana ice cream is an easy and delicious option. It is made with frozen bananas and can be blended into a creamy treat that feels like ice cream without using dairy.
This recipe is quick, naturally sweet, and easy to customize with different flavors and toppings.
Basic Banana Ice Cream
Ingredients
2 frozen sliced bananas
A splash of non-dairy milk, if needed
Instructions
Place the frozen banana slices in a blender or food processor.
Blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, add a small amount of non-dairy milk to help reach your desired consistency.
Serve immediately for a soft-serve texture, or place it in the freezer for a firmer texture.
Chocolate Banana Ice Cream
For a chocolate version, add the following before blending:
2 frozen sliced bananas
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
A splash of non-dairy milk, if needed
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Mint Chocolate Banana Ice Cream
For a mint chocolate version, add:
2 frozen sliced bananas
1/8 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
A pinch of salt
A splash of non-dairy milk, if needed
Blend until creamy, then stir in mini chocolate chips after processing.
Nut Butter Banana Ice Cream
For a richer flavor, add peanut butter or almond butter to the frozen bananas before blending.
Start with one tablespoon and add more if you want a stronger nut butter taste.
Serving Suggestions
Top your banana ice cream with fresh fruit, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, cacao nibs, or a few mini chocolate chips.
You can also enjoy it plain as a simple, refreshing dessert.
A Simple Way to Enjoy Something Sweet
Healthy eating does not mean you have to give up dessert. Sometimes it means finding simple ways to enjoy something sweet while still supporting how you want to feel.
Banana ice cream is easy to make, easy to customize, and a delicious way to enjoy a dairy-free treat.
Gemma Nastasi, PCC, NBC-HWC, CAPP, CHNC
The Lodge At Woodloch
The Lodge at Woodloch: November 27–28, 2026
I am honored to be returning to The Lodge at Woodloch as a guest speaker on Friday, November 27th and Saturday, November 28th, 2026.
The Lodge at Woodloch is a beautiful destination spa known for wellness, relaxation, personal growth, and renewal. It is the perfect setting to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself.
As an ICF Professional Certified Coach, National Board-Certified Health Coach, Positive Psychology Practitioner, and author, I look forward to sharing tools and strategies that support greater happiness, well-being, and personal growth.
Life can become busy, stressful, and overwhelming, and sometimes we need a quiet place to step away and come back to ourselves. My work focuses on helping people create healthier habits, strengthen their mindset, manage life transitions, and make choices that support both happiness and health.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this special wellness experience at The Lodge at Woodloch.
To learn more or reserve your stay, visit:
https://www.thelodgeatwoodloch.com/explore/speakers/gemma-nastasi
Summer Wellness: Simple Habits to Support Your Health
Summer is a wonderful time to focus on your health. The days are longer, fresh fruits and vegetables are in season, and many people feel more motivated to eat lighter, move more, and spend time outdoors.
While we cannot control every illness or stressor around us, we can support our bodies with healthy daily habits. A strong wellness routine includes nourishing food, hydration, sleep, movement, stress management, and good hygiene.
Nourish Your Body
A nutrient-rich diet can help support overall health and wellness. Focus on a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, healthy fats, and quality protein.
Summer is a great time to enjoy colorful produce, fresh salads, berries, watermelon, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, herbs, and other seasonal foods.
Foods that support gut health may also be helpful. Probiotic foods include yogurt, fermented vegetables, sauerkraut, kombucha, kimchi, and miso. Prebiotic foods include garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, and other fiber-rich foods.
The goal is not perfection. The goal is to give your body the nutrients it needs to work well.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is especially important during the summer months. Warmer weather, sweating, outdoor activities, and travel can all increase your need for fluids.
Drink water throughout the day. You can also add lemon, cucumber, mint, or berries to make it more refreshing.
Be Careful With Supplements
Vitamins and minerals play important roles in health, but more is not always better. Supplements should be used thoughtfully, especially if you take medication, have a health condition, or are unsure about your levels.
Before starting supplements, it is always best to speak with your healthcare provider.
Other Summer Wellness Habits
Food is only one part of wellness. Other habits can also help support your health:
Manage your stress.
Get seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
Exercise regularly.
Spend time outdoors safely.
Wash your hands frequently.
Stay connected to positive people.
Make time for joy and laughter.
Rest when your body needs it.
Stay Well This Summer
Taking care of your health does not have to be complicated. Small daily habits can help support your body, your energy, and your well-being.
Eat nourishing foods. Stay hydrated. Move your body. Manage stress. Sleep well. Enjoy fresh seasonal foods. And remember that wellness is built through the choices you make every day.
Gemma Nastasi, PCC, NBC-HWC, CAPP, CHNC
Organic Vegetable Soup for a Healthy Reset
Please use all organic vegetables when possible.
This nourishing vegetable soup is filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, ginger, garlic, and lemon. It is a simple way to enjoy a warm, healthy meal that supports your body and helps you feel lighter and refreshed.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons organic olive oil
Fresh ginger, about 8 chunks
Fresh parsley, basil, and oregano
1 leek, chopped
1 onion, chopped
A few garlic cloves, chopped
2 sweet potatoes, skin on, chopped
2 white potatoes, skin on, chopped
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Carrots
Shiitake mushrooms
Peas
Kale
Celery
Filtered water, if possible
Fresh lemon
Directions
Add olive oil to a large pot.
Add the ginger, garlic, onion, leek, and fresh herbs. Sauté for a few minutes to infuse the oil with flavor.
Add the remaining vegetables and stir well. Be careful not to let the vegetables burn.
Add filtered water and cook until the vegetables are tender but still firm.
Before serving, add more fresh herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon for a zesty flavor.
You can also enjoy this soup with raw crackers from the health food store.
This is a great way to nourish your body with fresh vegetables, herbs, and simple ingredients.
Gemma Nastasi, PCC, NBC-HWC, CAPP, CHNC
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