Not your Mother's menopause
Menopause is a journey of transformation, and with the right approach, it can indeed be a beautiful and empowering chapter.
Not your Mother’s menopause, embracing the second spring of life.
It is 2am and I’m awaken by the heat rising from my mattress, get your head out of the gutter this isn’t 50 shades of Grey, when I realize that my body temperature is causing my bed to get all hot and steamy. Ah yes, I’m in the beginning stages of menopause and with it comes the hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, chin hair growing out of control and the hair on top of your head getting thinner by the day. And that’s the reward for 30 plus years of Aunt Flow visiting, cramps and popping out children. Isn’t that just lovely.
And while there is most definitely a part of menopause that sucks, it also encompasses much more. It's a transformative period in a woman's life that brings about significant changes. On my recent podcast “From Superwoman to She-E-O” Episode 8, my guest Lisa Boate of Liberating Menopause, said the transition in this chapter can be a gateway to a new, vibrant phase of life.
Menopause is not just a physiological process; it's also a psychological and emotional journey. For many women, it signals the end of fertility, which can bring mixed feelings. On the positive side, it can also mark the end of menstrual discomforts and the beginning of a new chapter in life. So if you are between the ages of 45 to 55 and think well this sucks, lets embrace the transition with renewal and vitality. First we need to shift our mindset and lifestyle.
1. Prioritize Physical Health
Maintaining physical health is crucial during menopause. Regular exercise helps manage weight, improve mood, and strengthen bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phytoestrogens (plant-derived estrogens) can alleviate some menopausal symptoms. Foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and soy products are particularly beneficial.
Tips:
Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week, coupled with strength training exercises.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help manage hot flashes and support overall health.
2. Cultivate Mental and Emotional Well-being
Menopause can be an emotionally turbulent time, but it also offers an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can reduce stress and improve emotional health. Engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy and fulfillment can enhance mental well-being.
Tips:
Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate meditation or mindfulness exercises into your daily routine.
Stay Connected: Maintain strong social connections with friends and family to combat feelings of isolation.
Seek Professional Support: Don't hesitate to consult a therapist or counselor if you're struggling with emotional challenges.
3. Rediscover Your Passions and Hobbies
Menopause can be a time to rediscover old passions or explore new interests. Whether it's painting, gardening, writing, or traveling, engaging in activities that you love can provide a sense of purpose and satisfaction. This period of life offers the freedom to pursue hobbies that may have been put on hold due to earlier life responsibilities.
Tips:
Try New Things: Experiment with activities you’ve always wanted to try but never had the time for.
Join Clubs or Groups: Participate in community groups or clubs that align with your interests.
Set Personal Goals: Establish achievable goals related to your hobbies and work towards them.
4. Focus on Relationships and Community
Menopause is a great time to strengthen existing relationships and build new ones. Engaging with a supportive community can provide emotional support and enhance your sense of belonging. Sharing experiences with others who are going through the same transition can be particularly comforting.
Tips:
Communicate Openly: Talk about your experiences with friends and family.
Participate in Support Groups: Join menopause support groups or online forums.
Volunteer: Giving back to the community can create a sense of fulfillment and connection.
5. Embrace Self-Care and Self-Compassion
Self-care is vital during menopause. Listening to your body and giving it the care it needs can make this transition smoother. This includes regular health check-ups, skincare routines, and taking time to relax and unwind. Being compassionate with yourself and acknowledging that it's okay to have ups and downs is essential.
Tips:
Develop a Skincare Routine: Adjust your skincare routine to address changes such as dryness or sensitivity.
Pamper Yourself: Treat yourself to activities that promote relaxation, such as massages, baths, or reading.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no and prioritize your well-being.
Embracing the Journey
6. Make a Bucket List
It is time to do all of the things that you want to do. Kids are grown, you can take that trip to Italy you have always wanted to do or maybe get furniture and decorate because the kids aren’t there to mess it up! Tired of your job or your career, tap into your passion and make income doing that. Fall in love again, with your current partner or get out there and date. Get a journal and make a list of 50 things you want to do and go do them!
Menopause is not an end but rather a beginning of a new, enriching phase of life. By prioritizing physical health, cultivating emotional well-being, rediscovering passions, focusing on relationships, and embracing self-care, women can transform menopause into a time of renewal and growth.
This second spring offers a unique opportunity to live life to the fullest, armed with the wisdom and experience gained over the years. Menopause is a journey of transformation, and with the right approach, it can indeed be a beautiful and empowering chapter. Embrace it and let this be the time when you truly flourish and thrive.
