Perimenopause, that fun period before menopause hits. Didn't even know this was a thing until I hit it and let me tell you, this is a thing, a very annoying thing. If by any chance you had regular periods all your life (like me, on the dot of 28-day cycles), you can forget all about it.
Planning a week's holiday by the beach, you bet, you are going to have company. A romantic spa weekend, yep, hello here I am, your bloody friend, showing up unexpectedly and uninvited once more.
That superhuman/woman that used to live in me seems to be gone. She is no longer ever patient, always energetic and on the go. When all her life she knew what was in the cupboard, where batteries were stored, when the plants needed water, and where the plug converter (used once a year) was, memory seems to fail her. She finds herself forgetting things, dropping the ball, and needing an extra snooze. At first, I thought that dementia had installed, but apparently, that isn't the case. It's normal, the doctor says. Normal? This? It doesn't feel normal at all! The mental fog and memory lapses can be disconcerting, impacting daily life and contributing to a sense of unease.
This phase often prompts a reevaluation of self and priorities, as the dynamic woman accustomed to effortlessly juggling various responsibilities may find herself navigating new terrain. It's essential to recognize that these cognitive changes are part of the natural process and may be influenced by hormonal shifts during perimenopause.
What about food and weight gain, you ask? – a waltz of changing metabolism and shifting hormones. The realization that the hips might be whispering truths about new curves can be a wake-up call. Yet, caution is the key when considering adjustments to the diet. While opting for wiser food choices is advisable, it's crucial to navigate this path with care. Embarking on extreme measures, such as low-carb diets or rigorous calorie restrictions, may seem tempting, but it's essential to acknowledge the potential consequences. Introducing additional stress, whether through restrictive diets or excessive exercise, can impact the adrenal glands, exacerbating hormonal imbalances and potentially worsening premenopausal symptoms.
Instead, a holistic approach to nutrition becomes paramount. Embrace a balanced and nourishing diet that includes a variety of whole foods, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Prioritize nutrient-dense choices while allowing for occasional indulgences to maintain a sustainable and enjoyable eating pattern. Moreover, staying hydrated is often overlooked but plays a vital role in supporting overall well-being, including metabolism and digestion. Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine, such as walking, brisk yoga, or other forms of exercise, can be beneficial for both physical and mental health without causing additional stress on the body.
In essence, the journey through perimenopause invites a mindful and compassionate approach to lifestyle choices. By nurturing your body with wholesome foods, staying active in a way that brings joy, and managing stress through practices like yoga, meditation, or pranayama, you can navigate the changes with grace and maintain a positive relationship with your body during this transformative period.
Amidst the challenges, women can find solace in shared experiences and the collective wisdom of those who have traversed similar paths. Establishing a support network, whether through friends, family, or online communities, can provide a sense of understanding and camaraderie during this transformative period. The acceptance of these changes as part of a broader life transition is a crucial step toward embracing the journey through perimenopause with resilience and self-compassion. See you on the mat on Mondays and Fridays, at the pool on Thursdays, and walking in the forest whenever possible. Join me!
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