Nobody really prepares us for menopause just like nobody really prepares us for motherhood.

Yes, we read, we talk to our health providers, we talk to our friends and family, but until menopause hits us in one way or another, we don’t really know what to expect.
There is not a day that is similar to another, and there is no manuscript. Each of us is different, and we experience menopause symptoms differently.
What we need is to understand the situation and the changes in our body, life, mood, tiredness, hot flashes, etc. and see how we deal with it in the best possible way.

It feels like menopause happens all of a sudden...
All of a sudden, I see that my vision is not as clear, and I need to use reading glasses…
And all of a sudden, I gain a few pounds that are stubborn and not easy to lose…
All of a sudden I get tired more easily and I can’t go, go, go a million miles an hour like I used to….
All of a sudden I can’t drink wine because it makes me feel really bad at night….

Exercise is one thing that helps me get through menopause.

When we work out, the endorphins are immediately released in our bodies, and it instantly helps with our mood and creates that “feel good” feeling.

I highly recommend going for a walk as exercise. (No need to run a marathon...lol) Being outside, breathing fresh air, helps with hot flashes, quality of sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, and releasing stress and anxiety.

I enjoy playing tennis twice a week with a group of ladies who have become my friends. Having friends who are going through menopause too has been a huge help, much like taking first steps into motherhood with other new moms. I highly recommend taking group lessons (I love tennis, but do whatever works for you) with ladies who are going through the same symptoms as you are. It's exercise with a built-in support group :)

Another exercise that I find wonderful is the Barre class, which combines pilates, yoga, and ballet. Super fun & hard class that focuses on strengthening the core and on the connection between mind and body. It also does magic to your body. (I take two Barre classes a week.)

And lastly, I go out for walks with my dog as often as I can. It’s good for him and good for me.

Running a business or working in general and maintaining a good healthy life is challenging at times, which is why it is so important to take time for yourself and care for your mind and body—especially through all these changes happening in menopause.

I realize that healthy nutritious food is even more important for my body now!

Some FOOD that is recommended to ease menopause symptoms:
Soy-based products such as tofu and tempeh, known to be working in our bodies as a replacement for estrogen (as estrogen levels decline during menopause);
Food that is high in calcium such as broccoli and legumes;
Food that is high in iron such as leafy greens, vegetables, nuts, and grains;
Food that is high in fiber such as whole grain rice, oatmeal, fruits, and vegetables.

Plus, drink plenty of water and cut back on processed food, high-fat food, as well as sugar and salt.

Hang in there. Symptoms will go away.

I keep reminding myself that this period will not last forever, that it will be over soon. I'm not sure things will ever be the same, but that's the way it is, we live, we grow, we evolve.
We should feel lucky that we have reached this age and accept these changes with love and graciousness.
This phase is a part of life, and we can only control some things, but we can't control aging:)

If you can relate, know that you are not alone.
If you know someone who is going through menopause, share this post with them, maybe it will help.

Wishing you the best in your journey

Warmly,
Estee

~~~ A little note: I'm no doctor
I'm sure you know, but I have to say it, I'm no doctor! :)

I share my personal experience and things I learn along the way to a healthy lifestyle. We should all be conscious of our health and own our bodies. What works for me (or for many) may not work for you.
Do what's right for you and when you're not sure, consult your medical provider.

How I Deal with Menopause