The “soft life” approach to wellness: Why hustle culture is out
+ Research proves we wait for menopause treatment | This week's must-read Substacks
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The “soft life” approach to wellness: why hustle culture is out
For years, we’ve been told that success comes from grinding, pushing harder, and doing more. But what if the key to real wellness is actually doing less? Enter: the "soft life" movement, a radical shift from burnout culture to one of ease, joy, and well-being.
At its core, the soft life is about intentional living — prioritizing rest, setting boundaries, and embracing wellness without guilt. It’s the opposite of toxic productivity, and it’s not about being lazy — it’s about choosing balance over burnout, peace over pressure.
How to embrace the #softlife at our age
1. Reframe wellness as nourishment, not punishment
Forget punishing workouts and fad diets. Move in ways that feel good — whether it’s yoga, long walks, or lightweight strength training. Eat for energy, nourishment, and (god forbid!) enjoyment.
2. Prioritize rest like a power move
Sleep isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Protect your rest like you protect your best assets. This means going to bed earlier, taking breaks, and actually relaxing without guilt.
3. Set boundaries without apology
Wellness isn’t just physical — it’s emotional and mental, too. Say no to energy-draining commitments, toxic people, and unrealistic expectations. Yes, even at work.
4. Romanticize your life
Make daily moments feel special. Use the good dishes. Light candles, play music. Wear perfume — even just at home. Make your morning coffee an experience. (You get the idea!) When we slow down, we start seeing beauty in the ordinary.
5. Move at your own pace
There’s no rush. No race. No deadline for “getting it together.” Wellness is a lifelong journey, not a destination — so let’s make it one we actually enjoy.
Ready to ditch the hustle and embrace the soft life? Tell us how you’re choosing wellness on your terms in the comments!
The waiting game
We knew this — but research from UVA Health and the Flo women’s health app released their study yesterday, revealing:
More than half of women aged 30 to 35 suffer moderate to severe symptoms associated with peri/menopause, but wait decades before seeking treatment.
Why do you think this is? What’s your experience? Tell us in the comments!
Check out I’m 30: Why do I need to think about menopause? by Midst writer Sally Duffin for a our helpful tips.
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I can provide some clarification on that research project you referenced. The symptoms that the media article classified as perimenopause are anxiety, depression, and mood changes which can occur in perimenopause, but are not exclusive to perimenopause making it seem like 30 year olds were dealing with perimenopause a lot earlier than normal. 30 year olds having perimenopause symptoms like abnormal periods, skipping periods, and hot flashes should be seen by a healthcare provider. There are real consequences to reaching menopause too early.
The other point I want to make is that these period tracking apps track your periods and symptoms which you give permission to them to use. This project used Flo data.
YES love this! Currently I'm working to balance my Power Days, where I'm working harder than ever on growing my business and achieving my financial goals, with my Soft Life Nights, where I shower everything off, onboard some CBD and unwind in bed before sleep. Sometimes it takes awhile, but I never regret going to bed early so I can have that onramp to a deep sleep.