Redefining Midlife: Natasha Rao’s Approach to Health, Wellness, and Style

Natasha Rao, a community manager and menopause advocate based in Fairfax, Virginia, is redefining what it means to take control of midlife wellness. A military spouse and mother of three, Natasha has navigated the unique challenges of frequent relocations while balancing family life, career, and personal health.

From the beginning, Natasha has been passionate about fashion, using it as a creative outlet that complements her approach to wellness. “I find fashion is my creative outlet. I do it every day, just like working out. It’s my space to step out as my best self,” she said. Her commitment to self-care extends beyond appearance, she actively manages her health, tracking lab results, advocating for her medical needs, and prioritizing preventative care.

Natasha’s dedication is especially important given her family history: all three of her children, who are half Indian, have high lipoprotein(a), a marker linked to heart disease risk. She uses this knowledge to help her kids develop healthy habits, offering a variety of vegetables at every meal. “Every night, I make sure the kids are getting at least three or four different vegetables in their meal,” she said.

For herself, Natasha tackles midlife health challenges like fibroids, high cholesterol, and pre-diabetes with a proactive mindset. “When I first found out, it was a bit overwhelming,” she admits. “But I figured I needed to get it all together to take care of my future self. I want to be strong for my children and model healthy habits they can carry into their own lives.”

Her approach to wellness is practical and consistent. Natasha starts her day with early workouts, prioritizes nutrient-rich foods, and seeks balance rather than restriction. “Even though I’ve cut out processed and sweet foods, I’ve found things I love like almond butter with yogurt or dates that are nourishing and enjoyable,” she says.

Through her daily routines, Natasha demonstrates that self-care is not just a luxury, it’s a lifestyle. By blending movement, mindfulness, and a love for fashion, she models how women can take charge of their health, manage midlife challenges, and embrace confidence on their own terms.