Imagine defying the odds at 70, juggling a grueling theater tour that spans the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland—energy surging despite the relentless demands. But here's where it gets controversial... is age really just a number, or are we all secretly sabotaging our vitality with outdated habits?
At 70, I'm more active than ever before, stepping back onto the stage for a play after an eight-year hiatus. Not only am I performing, but I'm also embarking on an extensive tour across the entire United Kingdom and Ireland. This isn't your average outing—it's the longest tour of my career, testing every ounce of stamina. Back in my younger days, I powered through without a second thought, my energy seemingly endless. Now, however, things have changed. It's not merely the weekly performances in front of audiences that drain me; it's the constant travel, hopping from one end of the country to the other. Our goal? To wrap up each week by Sunday, returning home for a precious night or two to reconnect with loved ones, give the dog some affection, and recharge in my own bed. Then, it's off to the next venue—perhaps Scotland one week, followed by Cornwall the next. Why subject myself to this? Honestly, I adore my profession and thrive on challenges. (For more on embracing life beyond age expectations, check out my insights here.) Yet, it required thorough preparation to sustain it all.
And this is the part most people miss: the real secret isn't just pushing through, but proactively fueling your body and mind. Let's dive into how I maintain my vitality.
- Nourishing my body with smart nutrition
From the rehearsal phase onward, I committed to a wholesome eating plan. Before starting, I'd put on a few extra pounds—I wanted to shed them anyway—but more importantly, I needed to boost my energy reserves. A few months prior, I'd been grappling with low energy following stressful periods, feeling utterly exhausted. The upcoming tour, however, lit a fire under me to make changes.
When fatigue sets in, it's tempting to reach for sugary snacks, which is precisely what contributed to my weight gain. In my health overhaul, I eliminated grains, dairy, and sugar for six weeks. Instead, I focused on high-quality proteins like eggs, chicken, and fish; healthy fats from nuts, olive oil, coconut oil, and avocados; and plenty of non-starchy vegetables. I avoided starch-heavy options such as potatoes. Although I generally view dairy as beneficial, removing it proved essential for me—and it delivered results. The pounds melted away, and my energy returned to its peak.
Thankfully, this carried me through the demanding five weeks of rehearsals. As we progressed to Manchester for our premiere, we rehearsed tirelessly, day and night, for nearly two weeks. While exhaustion hit everyone in the cast, I wasn't as depleted as before and managed far better. My current diet is less strict, but I prioritize nutritious choices to keep my energy steady. Now on tour, I use my Sunday and Monday home time for meal preparation, packing as much healthy food as possible. This saves precious time and money during the week while ensuring I stick to wholesome options. Imagine the peace of mind in knowing your fuel is always ready—whether it's prepped salads or home-cooked proteins that rival any restaurant dish.
- Boosting health with targeted supplements
Supplements have long been part of my wellness routine. In today's world, it's tough to extract all necessary nutrients from food alone, thanks to depleted soils and an abundance of ultra-processed items. Plus, our bodies face more toxins than ever. Ahead of the tour, I sought advice from a specialist to tailor my supplement intake. The aim? To address digestive concerns, support my mitochondria (those tiny powerhouses in cells responsible for generating energy), and elevate overall vitality. Combined with my diet, the results were outstanding.
I'll also carry a stash of supplements for winter health during touring. Some cast members have already battled colds, and the season is just kicking off. Theater work is contagious—like school; one sniffle can domino through the group. To combat this, I'll incorporate quercetin, known for its antiviral properties and potent antioxidant effects. At the slightest hint of a cold or sore throat, I'll turn to oregano oil, another strong antiviral. My kit will include vitamin C and D3 as well, fortifying my defenses. For beginners exploring supplements, think of them as insurance for your diet—quercetin, for instance, is found in foods like onions and apples, but concentrated doses can provide an extra shield in high-stress environments.
But here's where it gets controversial: Are supplements a game-changer, or are they overhyped crutches that distract from real dietary fixes? I've seen debates rage on, and honestly, it depends on your lifestyle—share your take below!
- Managing stress and prioritizing rest
Performing in a play is inherently stressful and downright frightening. Facing a crowd of a thousand or more, under scrutiny, isn't for the faint-hearted. I experience intense anxiety, particularly on opening nights and in the early weeks, leading to stomach butterflies, disrupted sleep, and a constant state of high alert. Regrettably, this anxiety intensifies with age.
Over the years, I've mastered techniques to soothe my system. Breathing exercises are my first line of defense against anxiety; I've practiced them daily for eight years. (I've even shared a video on my YouTube channel and demonstrated them live on This Morning with Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard.) They truly work wonders. I perform a few rounds before bed to unwind, and I can sense my nervous system settling. If pre-show nerves overwhelm me, a quick session in my dressing room restores calm. For newcomers, try this simple one: inhale deeply for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four—it's like hitting a reset button for your mind.
I've also added a fantastic gadget from Pulsetto to my arsenal. This device, worn around the neck for 10 minutes, stimulates the vagus nerve—the key pathway that signals your brain to release calming chemicals like serotonin. It triggers your body's relaxation mode, aiding digestion and recovery. It's transformed my sleep quality and reduced stress levels, becoming a staple in my anti-stress toolkit. Sleep, after all, is vital for handling pressure—without it, even the best nerves can fray.
- Embracing creature comforts on the road
I prioritize comfort during travel; at my age, roughing it isn't appealing. I bring my own pillow, fitted with a silk pillowcase. If you haven't switched to silk, you're missing out—no more waking to wrinkled skin or frizzy hair. Silk preserves smoothness and shine, like a gentle hug for your face.
I pack warm pajamas, cozy slipper socks, and a hot water bottle for chilly nights. I always choose accommodations with a kitchen and load up on food, as mentioned, to enjoy home-style meals and dodge greasy takeout. This creates a sanctuary for relaxation, writing, or unwinding with my iPad, laptop, or Kindle. I'm equipped for any scenario, turning potential downtime into productive or pleasurable moments. Picture it: curling up with a favorite book or show, far from the chaos of the road.
- Carving out essential downtime
This aspect is crucial, especially since I tend to overcommit. Beyond the play, I manage my Ageless website and YouTube channel, so recognizing overload is key. Scheduling at least one full day weekly without computer work—pure relaxation or enjoyment—is vital for mental health and reducing stress. It's as important as any diet or exercise. Fingers crossed I stick to it!
Ultimately, I'm grateful for a career I cherish and the opportunities it brings, from press features to TV interviews. At the year's outset, I never envisioned this path. My recent mantra: embrace every possibility. May the adventures continue.
What do you think—does age define our limits, or can we all rewrite the rules like this? Is my diet approach revolutionary or too restrictive? And on supplements: savior or unnecessary expense? I'd love to hear your opinions—agree, disagree, or share your own vitality secrets in the comments!
