1) No journey is linear:
There are days that will be abysmally low and then there are days that are full of gratitude and joy. Menopause will feel exactly like that. While the joy of ‘no period’ might feel good; the mood swings, insomnia, and hot flashes might drive you crazy. Be ready to take each day as it comes – it often does get better, but be ready to get on board the crazy ride.
2) You might feel like a crazy person:
The mood swings, fatigue, and irritation might make you wonder if you are going crazy, and if all of this is happening just to you. If there are days, you can’t tolerate the sight of another person and feel like everything around you is crumbling and that even the people closest to you don’t understand you, then let me assure you – most of us have felt this way at some point in time in our journey and you aren’t losing your mind. Be kind to yourself, you deserve and need the most love at this time from yourself.
3) Learn to love your new body:
Your body is going to change and it deserves so much more attention, love, and acceptance than ever before. You may not relate to it, and you may start hating it too – but would you ever give up on nurturing your stubborn child? That’s exactly the kind of love and attention your body needs at this time. Learn to empathize and gracefully accept the change it is undergoing; it has been and will always be your home.
4) You are in charge:
Whoever told you getting older is the end of it all; doesn’t know the power of self-control. Just taking charge of your mind and lifestyle will make this transition 80% easier. Go lift those weights, go for that trek, grab some sunlight and breathe a little. You will have it all under control – when you tell yourself so, this is not the end – rather something more beautiful.
5) You aren’t alone:
Half the world’s population will undergo menopause. Every single woman will undergo menopause – your best friend, your sister, or your colleague, someone at this time might be undergoing menopause. You are not alone and you don’t need to be alone. Reach out for support, speak to your family, and tell your friend how you feel. Maybe they need you as much as you might need them now. They deserve to know what’s happening to you, and you deserve their support. Build your support system and that will not happen until you extend your hand and ask for it. Learn to prioritize yourself and learn to say no and set boundaries when it gets overwhelming, so speak up and stand for yourself
