Throughout her life, Bettyanne has maintained an active and healthy body. A delightful chat about her healthy relationship with her body left us feeling inspired … and gave us a good giggle. 

Here’s what Bettyanne had to say … 

What do you love most about your body?

It’s fine — I’m happy with it. I can still do what I want. I guess I’m still in reasonable shape. I’d say I’m fit, balanced and active. 

Physically and mentally, I feel like the same person, even though I’m older. Sure, there are things I can’t do with my body anymore, like running. But to be honest, even if I could, I’m not sure I’d want to go for a run anyway!

What do you enjoy doing to stay active? 

I played netball and was quite active throughout my life. Now, I’m quite a doer — I like to keep busy and stay active. I’m always on the go! 

One of my favourite things is moving furniture around the house and changing up a room — and I still move heavy furniture around just like I did when I was half my age. Just the other day, I was dragging this really heavy buffet of fine china. I was more impressed that none of the china fell over than the fact that I managed to drag a piece of furniture that’s twice my height! 

Who was considered beautiful in your lifetime? 

Definitely Princess Diana.

How do you feel about being older? 

I never really think about being old. Sure, I get some health niggles, but age doesn’t worry me. You just have to go with the flow and make the most of what’s left.

I don’t worry about the wrinkles; they just show the experiences I’ve had. I’m grateful for living!

What experiences have you missed because of how you felt about your body?

I’m short, and there have been times in my life when I wished I were taller. When I was younger, I cared less about it, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve actually gotten even shorter. 

Sometimes it’s frustrating being short because you can’t reach things. I used to be about 5 foot, but now I’m down to 4 foot 11. There’s nothing you can do to change your height (or other parts of your body for that matter), so you might as well accept it.

I’ve been challenged by this, but my philosophy is, ‘that’s life’ — you just have to deal with it.

Once, I was with a friend, and she pointed out, ‘See that woman over there? She’s the same height as us.’ We both laughed and thought, ‘Oh really? Are we really that short?’ 

Also, as you age, your shape changes, and you start to notice you’re bigger in different parts of your body. When I had kids, I never worried about my pregnant or postpartum body — I thought it looked good enough.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Live your life to the fullest! Life is short, and time goes by so quickly. I find it hard to believe that I’m already 79!