At 52, Geri Halliwell—best known as Ginger Spice from the iconic girl group the Spice Girls—is showing the world that aging gracefully has less to do with skin creams and more to do with self-love and purpose. In a recent conversation, the singer-turned-author opened up about her personal journey, how she stays grounded, and why aging is something to be celebrated, not feared.
Speaking with Yahoo Life for its “Unapologetically” series, Halliwell reflected on her transformation from pop star to best-selling author and wellness advocate. Her outlook on aging? It’s not about resisting time—it’s about owning every year with pride.
Inspired by a 100-Year-Old Runner
Halliwell started the conversation by honoring Julia Hawkins, a Louisiana woman who began running at age 100 and set records in the 100-meter dash before passing away at 108.
“She’s so inspiring,” Halliwell said. “I’d be proud of every year we get given.”
That mindset reflects Halliwell’s belief that aging isn’t a limitation but a privilege.
Geri’s Philosophy: Grow Through Every Era
When asked about her positive approach to aging, Halliwell kept it simple: “I just want to be my optimum self—whatever age, whatever era it is.” Whether it’s writing, parenting, or staying active, she sees every stage of life as a chance to learn and evolve.
“Keep growing, keep evolving,” she said. “If I want to try something, then why not? Go for it.”
A New Chapter as an Author
Halliwell recently released her second young-adult novel, Rosie Frost: Ice on Fire, part of a planned trilogy. Writing, she says, is not new to her—it’s been a lifelong passion.
“It’s a gift of learning technique, discipline, and research,” she explained. “It’s made my brain have to concentrate, which I think is a very good thing.”
Life Lessons from Loss
The former pop star’s perspective on aging is also shaped by personal loss. Her father passed away when she was young, making her aware of life’s fragility early on.
“That was a sobering moment,” she said. “Let’s make this life count. Don’t squander it. It gave me gas in my tank.”
She also found guidance in a Tibetan book on living and dying, which emphasized life’s temporary nature.
“It gives you clarity,” Halliwell said. “You start asking, ‘What’s really important to me?’”
How She Moves: Gentle, Joyful Exercise
Though she used to run, Halliwell now prefers a more mindful approach to movement. Her favorite activities include walking her dog, practicing yoga, horseback riding, and simply playing with her children.
“I make sure any exercise is very loving,” she said. “It gives me a feeling of strength or aliveness.”
Her introduction to yoga came two decades ago—at a dinner table surrounded by music legends like Elton John and members of the Rolling Stones. Director Sam Taylor-Johnson recommended yoga, and Halliwell never looked back.
“It wasn’t a thing back then,” she said. “Yoga changed my body and my mindset. It made me feel present.”
Beauty That Starts from Within
When it comes to beauty, Halliwell says no cream compares to inner peace.
“For me, the one way to achieve beauty is to really love yourself,” she said. “There isn’t a cream or potion that can replace that. Being happy is all-encompassing.”
She admits she’s not always consistent with sleep or water intake, but what grounds her is a deep sense of contentment.
“Sometimes it’s an outside job—sure, a little face cream helps. But true beauty comes from self-love.”
Daily Self-Love: A Personal Practice
Halliwell believes self-love isn’t a one-time achievement—it’s a daily practice.
“You have to look into your own eyes and say, ‘I love you—for all that you are, all that you’ve been, and all that you’re going to be.’”
She adds that this practice allows her to be present and emotionally available for others.
“It’s not every day I feel like that,” she said. “But when I do, it’s really nice.”
Lessons Passed from Mother to Daughter
Halliwell credits her mother for showing her how to age with joy and enthusiasm.
“She has this joie de vivre—just go for it,” she said. “I try to be that example for my children. I’d rather show than tell.”
Aging Isn’t a Decline—It’s an Ascent
Geri Halliwell’s journey is a reminder that getting older doesn’t mean fading away. For her, aging is about self-discovery, creativity, and loving yourself through all of life’s phases.
“I’d be proud of every year we get given,” she said again, echoing her admiration for Julia Hawkins.
As Halliwell proves, aging isn’t about holding onto the past—it’s about stepping confidently into what’s next.
