Investing in My Health: The New Black for the Mid-50s Me

If you’d asked me twenty or even ten years ago what I was “investing” in, the answer would have been pretty simple: clothes and travel. My younger self had a serious weakness for a great bargain on a designer top and for seeing as much of the world as possible. Don’t get me wrong, I still love a great trip, but my focus has shifted dramatically. These days, my wallet opens most readily for things that promote what I now consider the most valuable asset: my health.

It’s not just about living longer; it’s about extending my health span—the number of years I can live well, actively, and independently. And believe me, that requires an investment just like any stock portfolio.

Health Is the Real Wealth

When most people hear “investment,” they think of stocks, bonds, or real estate. Of course, I’m a firm believer that a solid financial plan matters—a well-managed portfolio provides freedom and peace of mind. But for me, health is the ultimate portfolio—one that quietly compounds over time. That’s why I’ve begun to channel more of my resources into what I now see as my most important investment: my well-being.

While I still adore a well-planned adventure, my spending has taken a more intentional turn. I’ve realized that investing in my health now pays dividends in the form of energy, mobility, and a longer health span—because who wants a long life without vitality?

These days, my budget leans more heavily into preventive health. I’ve invested in personal training to master the basics of core strength and resistance training, which are game-changers for staying strong and balanced as we age. Strong muscles and a solid core help prevent falls, improve posture, and keep me moving with confidence. It’s not just about looking good (though that’s a nice bonus)—it’s about feeling capable in my body for years to come.

Finding My Rhythm: Why Lindy Hop is My Secret Weapon

And then there’s my not-so-secret passion: Lindy Hop. Oh, what a joy this has been! On the surface, it’s a vibrant, social dance from the swing era. But underneath? It’s a powerhouse workout disguised as a party.

Why is it so brilliant for active aging? Let me count the ways:

• Cardiovascular Health: It gets your heart pumping in a joyful way, no treadmill dread in sight.
• Cognitive Function: You have to listen to the music, remember steps, and connect with a partner. It’s a fantastic neural workout that keeps your brain on its toes.
• Balance & Coordination: All those turns, twists, and rock steps seriously sharpen your proprioception—your body’s awareness in space—which is crucial for fall prevention.
• Social Connection: Laughing with a circle of friends, the sheer fun of it… this is soul food. It combats loneliness and keeps our spirits high.

It’s proof that the best exercise is the one you don’t realize you’re doing.

The Priceless Value of a Thorough Check-Up

Another area where I’ve chosen to “upgrade” my investment is my dental health. I recently switched dentists. My old one was fine for the basics—a good scaler and polisher. But my new dentist? On the first visit, with a comprehensive set of X-rays, they identified a couple of nascent problem areas that had been completely missed before.

Yes, they are pricier. But in this case, you absolutely get what you pay for. It’s the difference between a quick clean and a truly diagnostic, preventive approach. This isn’t just about teeth; it’s about systemic health. Oral health is intimately linked to heart health and inflammation in the body. Neglecting it is a risk I’m no longer willing to take.

Listening to My Body: The TCM Tune-Up

I’ve been getting massages for over 25 years — long enough to tell a good one from a glorified oil rub. 😉

Last weekend, I attended the Active Ageing Festival, where I tried a trial TCM massage session that blew me away. It wasn’t just relaxing — it was restorative. The therapist understood meridians, pressure points, and energy flow in a way my usual spa visits never quite did.

So, after years of being prudent with massage spending and hopping between random packages, I finally signed up for a proper TCM massage course. These therapists are professionally trained in traditional Chinese massage techniques, and my body could tell the difference instantly.

Ironically, I didn’t manage to get a massage while I was in China… but here I am, back in Singapore, finding an even better one! Sometimes the best discoveries happen right at home.

You Are What You Eat: My Food Philosophy

All this activity needs to be fueled by the right stuff, and my grocery cart looks very different these days. I now see my food budget as a direct investment in my cellular health. That means leaning heavily into organic vegetables and embracing a more plant-based diet. I’m also getting more selective about my proteins, and have recently started easing in wild-caught salmon over farmed. Since it’s pricier, I’m mindful of the budget, but it’s a conscious step to nourish my body with the cleanest, most nutrient-dense food I can afford. Every little bit counts!

Rethinking Investments for a Longer, Healthier Life

I find myself investing less in possessions and more in holistic health—physical, mental, and nutritional. Not everyone thinks of a massage package, strength training session, or even dental work as an “investment,” but for me, they truly are. With any luck, I’ll enjoy a longer health span to match my lifespan.

What does your health investment portfolio look like? I’d love to hear what you’re prioritizing these days!

With love and vitality,

Jane