I know what it means to rebuild. I’ve always been passionate about health, fitness, and sport, whether it’s running marathons, playing tennis, or exploring new cities. Staying active has always been a part of who I am. But when I hit my 40s, life threw me some unexpected challenges. In 2018, I became a single mum, navigating a tricky time that left me overwhelmed, exhausted, and juggling the demands of raising my three boys while trying to rediscover my own identity and energy. I knew I couldn’t let life’s transitions define me and I had to take control. That’s when I developed the Nix Health Method, a framework rooted in movement, nutrition, and mindset, that helped me rebuild my strength and confidence from the inside out. Now, as a certified Health Coach and Ayurvedic Practitioner, I’m on a mission to help other women in their 40s and 50s do the same. With my 1:1 health coaching and course, From Surviving to Thriving, launching this month, I’m here to prove that midlife isn’t the end of the story, it’s the beginning of a very exciting new chapter.

The Year It All Changed
When I hit 40, a lot shifted, physically, emotionally, and mentally. I’d spent 22 years working in PR, first in London and then setting up my own agency back in Jersey to raise my boys closer to family. I loved the creativity and fast pace of PR, and I loved London, but I also craved balance. I wanted to be able to finish work and run to the beach within 10 minutes, to feel more connected to nature and my own wellbeing. At the same time, I noticed some big physical changes. On one hand, I was more motivated than ever to exercise and reclaim my body after spending most of my 30s either pregnant or raising my babies. But it wasn’t as simple as just going back to what I’d done pre-babies. Life with children is exhausting and unpredictable, and when you’re juggling demands on little sleep, it’s so easy to reach for sugar or skip meals altogether. The idea of three solid meals, one snack, lots of water, and daily movement can feel impossible when you’re just trying to get through the day. That’s when I really had to lean into the three pillars I now coach people through: movement, nutrition, and mindset. I learned that consistency over time is what creates lasting results. I also realised that sometimes slowing down is better than speeding up. Instead of pushing myself to do it all, I focused on small, sustainable habits that fit into my life as a mum entering peri-menopause. When friends kept asking for advice, I decided to channel my passion into something meaningful. I became a certified Health Coach with the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and Ayurveda Practitioner with Chopra School, and I created the Nix Health Method to help women rebuild their energy, confidence and identity after 40. I am continuing my studies in nutrition with the College of Naturopath Nutrition which is solidifying my knowledge even further which I love.

Tennis: The Gift That Keeps On Giving
One of the biggest joys has been rediscovering my love of tennis. I’m now completely obsessed, and it’s become such a part of my exercise repertoire. Even better, I play tennis (and paddle) with my three boys, and it’s one of those moments where I think, “this is better than I could have ever imagined.” It’s not just about being in shape, it’s about creating a life where I feel strong, connected, and present for myself and my boys. That’s what my 40s have been about: rebuilding, rediscovering, and finding happiness in doing so.

Stay Curious and Try New Things
I recently tried Hyrox and I absolutely loved it, it was such a fun, challenging workout. I thought it was for a younger generation but it’s for everyone and I can’t wait to do more of it. Don’t underestimate the power of connection. The people you surround yourself with can either fuel your energy or completely drain it. Stick with those who lift you up, inspire you and remind you of your potential. These are your energy givers, the ones who make you feel alive, supported, and capable of anything. At the same time, protect your energy fiercely. Not everything or everyone deserves your time and attention. When you align with the right people and the right priorities, you’ll find that your energy multiplies, and that’s when the magic happens. Also, focus on energy-boosting foods this season. Think squash, beetroot, carrots, and parsnips – locally grown, nutrient-packed, and perfect for cozy autumn meals. Add warming spices like cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger for a comforting, anti-inflammatory boost. Pair them with lentils, chickpeas, or roasted nuts to keep your energy stable and your meals satisfying. And don’t forget the magic of music! Whether you’re running, working, or even hoovering, a good playlist can do wonders for your serotonin levels. Light a candle, grab some fresh flowers, and let the music lift your mood. Small rituals like this can completely transform your day.

How I’m Helping Others, Not Just Survive, but Thrive Over 40
From Surviving to Thriving is a 6-module course designed for women who are feeling stuck, exhausted, or overwhelmed after a major life transition, whether that’s divorce, burnout, or just the chaos of midlife. The course is all about helping women rebuild their energy, confidence, and identity. Each module focuses on a different aspect of the journey, from breaking free of survival mode to creating sustainable habits that actually stick. It’s packed with practical tools, mindset shifts, and wellness strategies that I’ve used myself and with my clients. I created this course because I know how hard it is to navigate those stormy seasons, and I want women to know they don’t have to do it alone.

My Go-To Wellness Products I Always Recommend
I’m loving Ancient and Brave Pure Hydration for keeping my energy levels up, especially when I’m training. It’s perfect for staying hydrated and feeling refreshed. I’m also a big fan of the True Ashwagandha, it’s incredible for managing stress and helping to restore balance. I’m excited to try the new True Biome which combines prebiotics, postbiotics and gut barrier support in one harmonious blend designed to feed, repair and protect your gut. For travel, I love my Rains Cabin Trolley, it’s lightweight, durable, and keeps everything organised. And for running, my go-to shoes for every day are the Nike Vomero Plus they’re a game-changer for marathon training and for race day it has to be the ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo.   New shoes come out all the time so it may all change but if I had to pick two pairs today it would be these.

For more information about Surviving the Storm or to book a 1:1 coaching session with Nicola, visit nicolaeastwoodhealth.com.