Menopause can take a big toll on your physical and mental health if you don’t keep yourself in check. Many women see this time in their lives as a negative—you’re getting older, and maybe you aren’t where you wanted to be by this point in your life. I challenge you to change your perspective about being “middle-aged.” This is an amazing time in a woman’s life…a time to reflect, renew, and LIVE! If you’ve caught a case of the “menopause blues,” I have some self-care tips for you.
1. Move
I’m not the first one who has told you that exercise is important, and I certainly won’t be the last. Finding time to exercise should be an outlet and a self-care tool, not a chore. I feel like a different woman when I do my 30-45 minutes of cardio!
However, if the thought of the elliptical or treadmill makes you want to never want to step foot in a gym, that’s okay too! The important thing is that you find a way to move that works for you. This may be kickboxing, Tai Chi, or a daily walk around your neighborhood. Whatever you decide on, make it a priority and be sure to find time for it in your routine.
2. Eat
What you feed your body has a huge effect on your physical and mental state. Many of us have an unhealthy relationship with food, and most of us are truly “food addicts.” We know what foods are unhealthy and make us feel bad, but we still can’t resist eating them.
There are many things to consider when it comes to cleaning up your diet. Eating certain foods can make you feel sluggish and inflamed. Going a step further, you may have food sensitivities or intolerances that you are unaware of.
It’s time to take a critical look at your relationship with food. I am emploring you to eat to live. Take a deep dive into your diet and eating habits. Take tangible steps to clean up your diet, feed yourself with what truly fuels your mind and body, and pay attention to foods that make you feel sick, bloated, inflamed, or just plain uncomfortable.
A few starter tips: try out a plant-based diet, and work towards limiting (or completely eliminating) inflammatory foods like animal fats and dairy. Changing your diet is truly one of the most effective ways to look and feel your best.
3. Play
Just because you are in perimenopause or menopause itself doesn’t mean your life shouldn’t be active, playful, and joyful. It’s all about finding what brings joy to your life and making those things part of your daily routine. Use this series of questions from my book to help you look within yourself and pinpoint what brings you joy. Once you’ve found it, engage in this activity unapologetically!
Finding Joy:
- What brings you joy?
- How often do you engage in this activity?
- How might you change your schedule or priorities to do this activity more often?
- Write out your activity in a ritualistic way. Describe each step of the activity.
There really is no magic formula for self care, but making sure you are moving, eating, and playing will help you work through your “menopause blues.” This way, you can start enjoying the juicy second half of life while staying healthy and happy!
Have questions about menopause, perimenopause, or other women’s health topics? Visit my practice website to learn more and to set up your complimentary consultation.