Perimenopause:confessions from a health coach
Hitting me like a colossal avalanche, only it didn't bury me. Instead, it teased me with the notion of torturing my body in what feels like an eternal downhill slide to old age. But here's the thing: I've actually been caught in an avalanche before, and it ends rather quickly, either taking you out or leaving you with a fresh perspective on life. So why don't we approach the survival of menopause with the same fervor? Sure, there are a few extra pounds here and there, but I've always managed to shed them. Then there's the itchiness – it's practically everywhere. And let's not forget the irritability that seems to be understood solely by a spouse. Not to mention, injuries don't just take longer to heal; they also happen with alarming ease compared to my younger years.
I remember feeling like a decent athlete once, able to spend hours in the mountains, hit the rock gym, and still chill at the brewery for a few cold ones. Then, I'd wake up and do it all over again the next day. Nowadays, I meticulously plan my social engagements so I can be home by 8 PM and, quite embarrassingly, asleep by 8:30. There was a time when I'd wake up at 4:30 AM, embrace the tranquility of yoga, and then head off to a 12-hour shift as a perioperative nurse. Fast forward 8 years, and I've transitioned into healthcare tech. I adore it – no more on-call duties, the luxury of working from home alongside my three senior dogs, and ample time to find a balance between self-care and professional responsibilities. However, I'm facing challenges. Sleep is perpetually insufficient. My immunity is on a downward spiral. And back spasms, once the domain of extensive climbing trips, are now triggered by something as mundane as putting on my socks. What the fuck?
And then there's the irony of hot flashes. Given my perpetual coldness, I was actually looking forward to them. Yet, here I am, still fucking freezing.
I share this unfiltered and possibly oversharing narrative as a testament that health coaches, too, have their battles. It underscores the passion behind our vocation. This narrative is a raw peek into my life, demonstrating that I don't have it all figured out. I'm not the epitome of green tea and zen. Emotions sometimes drive me to make less-than-ideal dietary choices. I share this to convey that progress doesn't always resemble progress when you're knee-deep in the mire, so to speak.
It's essential to recognize that navigating the challenges of perimenopause doesn't mean you're alone or without options.
Here are some practical tips I've researched and incorporated into my own life, which may help you too:
Prioritize Sleep: Quality sleep is non-negotiable. Consider establishing a soothing nighttime routine and maintaining a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment. Supplements like magnesium or herbal teas such as chamomile might also promote relaxation.
Nutrition Matters: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help manage weight and provide the nutrients needed for hormonal balance. Foods high in phytoestrogens, like flaxseeds and soy, might offer some relief from menopausal symptoms.
Stay Active: Regular exercise can help with weight management, improve mood, and boost overall health. It doesn't always have to be high-intensity; even daily walks or gentle yoga can make a significant difference.
Mind-Body Practices: Techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can reduce stress and improve mental well-being. They've been lifesavers for managing my own stress and irritability.
Seek Support: Whether it's from a healthcare provider, therapist, or a support group, talking about your experiences can provide relief and valuable coping strategies.
Stay Hydrated: Hot flashes can lead to sweating, which increases the risk of dehydration. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated and help manage menopause symptoms.
It’s crucial to remember that perimenopause is a natural phase of life, not a deficiency or a disease. It's okay to not have all the answers or to feel like you're struggling sometimes.
My journey through perimenopause, with all its ups and downs, has taught me the importance of self-compassion and the strength in vulnerability.
By sharing our stories, we can foster a community of support and understanding, reminding each other that we're not alone in this ride. Let's approach this chapter with the same resilience and grace we've mustered for every other challenge life has thrown our way. After all, there's a certain power in navigating the storms together, finding our way to calmer waters, and maybe even emerging a bit wiser on the other side.