Turns out, your daily habits shift in your 40s. 8 women weigh in.

Thanks to our brand partner, Ayurscience

When I turned 40 I expected a few things to change — a few more wrinkles, haywire hormones and a step up in my career as my kids became more self-sufficient.

What I didn't expect was how much my mindset would shift. Setting clear boundaries, letting go of one-way relationships and investing in my wellbeing became non-negotiable.

Over the past week I've chatted to multiple women who shared how their habits — whether lifestyle, mindset or both — changed after they turned 40. Their stories are a reminder that this decade isn't about slowing down; it's about living more intentionally.

Katie, 45: "I started a proper skincare routine."

"Instead of spending all my disposable income on going out, I started investing in my family, my home and myself. Part of that was starting a proper skincare routine. Before 40 I would splash some water on my face and use whatever moisturiser was on special at the supermarket. Now I have a set routine using quality products that suit my dry skin."

Ageing and hormonal changes can wreak havoc on our skin which is why a lot of women choose to upgrade their skincare after 40. The AyurScience range combines Ayurvedic wisdom with modern science to create effective, plant-based skincare.

The Purity collection is formulated for oily and blemish-prone skin, while the Clarity products target pigmentation, dullness and uneven skin tone. Featuring Amla and Tulsi, the AyurActive complex is rich in antioxidants and natural vitamin C — ideal for women seeking clear, nourished and glowing skin.

Image: Supplied.

Sabrina, 40: "I chose peace over pressure."

"After 40, I stopped trying to be everything to everyone. I was so time poor, something had to give. I let go of friendships that felt heavy, dropped people-pleasing and started choosing peace over ego or the need to prove a point. Time with my family became the priority. It's no longer about just being around but being present. I stopped feeling guilty about rest and realised that slowing down doesn't mean I've lost my drive, it just means I'm clearer on what is worthy of my time."

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Bronwen, 45: "I went alcohol-free and started daily meditation."

"Turning 40 marked the beginning of shedding habits that no longer served me. After years of knowing deep down that alcohol wasn't serving me, I finally set the clear intention to stop and I've been alcohol-free for four months. Very soon after I stopped drinking, I established a consistent morning meditation practice. It's become my first act each day and something I can't live without. With these two changes, my life has completely transformed."

Kate, 47: "I found joy and connection through exercise."

"When I turned 40, I started to feel like an imposter in my own body. I just didn't feel good. After speaking with a girlfriend, we decided to start walking five kilometres three times a week. Seven years later, we're still doing it and I look forward to it so much. It isn't just about exercising — it's about connecting with someone and doing something just for ourselves."

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Sally, 48: "I made time for friends, pilates and proper nutrition."

"I was one of the few in my friendship group who didn't have a bung knee or a bad back. That changed when I developed 'frozen shoulder' in my 40s, one of the many symptoms of perimenopause. I quickly learned the importance of stretching, strength training and good nutrition. I now look after my nutrition, walk a few times a week and do reformer pilates for mind and body. I also nurture friendships more than I ever have and make a concerted effort to catch up with my girlfriends, to laugh and vent. While my shoulder is still a work in progress, I am more attuned to listening to my body, seeking information and advocating for myself."

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Emma, 45: "I started loving more deeply and living more simply."

"So much has happened since I turned 40. I lost a pregnancy, survived a stroke and struggled with recovery and life's new limitations. I worried about what the future looked like. And then, I stopped worrying. I built a house for my family, furthered my career, let my hair go grey and stopped caring about what other people thought. I feel like I've been in a battle with my own body but come out the other side stronger and more comfortable in myself. I look in the mirror and I don't worry about the wrinkles because getting older is a gift. I love more deeply and live more simply."

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Rachel, 44: "I no longer waste energy on things out of my control."

"The biggest shift has been prioritising my own health and wellbeing. Three kids later it was time for me to stop putting myself at the bottom of the list. I now commit to regular exercise and meditation including group exercise because it keeps me accountable and it's social. I also no longer waste energy on things that aren't in my control. Whether my mother-in-law thinks I'm a good mother or my colleague thinks I'm competent, I live by my values and trust myself — because that's all that matters."

Sophie, 42: "If I feel daunted, I ask, 'What's the worst that could happen?'."

"The year I turned 40, I went through IVF, lost my mum and had my first baby. I realised that I'm far more resilient than I ever thought I was. Mum used to say, 'Sleep when you're dead', and I've adopted that mindset a lot more since she passed. If I'm daunted by something, I say, 'What's the worst that could happen?'. I just keep going, doing all the stuff and trusting myself. While my daily routine is unpredictable with a toddler, I've become a lot more conscious of the time I have and of making the absolute most of every day."

Image: Supplied.

While we hear a lot about the challenges of life after 40, it can be the start of living a richer and more intentional life.

These women prove that it's not about becoming someone new but about living in a way that aligns with your values and enhances your wellbeing.

Shop the AyurScience Purity and Clarity skincare ranges online.

Feature Image: Supplied.

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Rooted in Ayurvedic wisdom and modern science, AyurScience delivers plant-powered skincare tailored to your skin's needs. The Purity Range supports oily, blemished, and acne-prone skin, while the Clarity Range targets dullness, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Powered by the AyurActive™ Ingredient Complex of Amla & Tulsi (Holy Basil) and infused with AyurScent essential oils, each formula nurtures skin health while offering a calming, spa-like ritual.
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