Press "Enter" to skip to content

Dealing with Menopause: Healthy Ways of Coping with Aging Changes

Menopause is a big milestone in every woman’s life. Unfortunately, even in the modern age, women are taught and condition to dread menopause-like it’s something bad. However, aging is a serious process that requires you to be calm and collected for your own benefit, and whether you like it or not, menopause is exactly that: a sign that your body is changing. So, if you’ve been feeling lost, confused, or even angry due to this, here are some healthy ways that will help you hope and accept this new life period.

Remember that menopause is not a loss of femininity 

Despite what you might have been conditioned to believe, menopause doesn’t mean you’ll be less of a woman. Sure, you won’t be able to get pregnant anymore, but again, that doesn’t mean your femininity is at stake. Your femininity revolves around the way you carry yourself and not around your age or reproductive health. Therefore, rather than feeling bad about it, try to do everything you can to live your best life and feel good about yourself.

Happy woman
Photo by Andre Furtado from Pexels

Start exercising on a regular basis 

Exercise is one of the most useful things you could give to yourself during this period. Due to the changing of fat cells and hormonal changes, women tend to gain weight more easily, and if that’s something you’re concerned about, then exercising is a great way to deal with it. It’s totally up to you to decide which physical activity suits you, and luckily, there are so many options such as pilates, yoga, running that will tone your body and increase your self-confidence.

Pay attention to what you eat

Diet culture has been targeting women disproportionately, and if your self-esteem suffers due to menopause, it’s only logical you’d try dieting as a way of coping and looking good. But, before you start browsing various diets, give yourself a hard look in the mirror: you’re beautiful, and there is nothing wrong with you. If you want to be healthier, it’s better to pay attention to what you eat than starve yourself with dubious diets. Therefore, consuming enough fruits, veggies, lean meat, and nuts will surely satisfy you so you won’t have to reach for snacks all the time!

Consider getting some extra help 

Sometimes, the right type of diet and exercise are not enough to go through the menopause because when we prepare food, a lot of vitamins and other nutrients disappear in the process. So, opting for natural menopause supplements can help you with the unpleasant side effects such as hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue. However, before you start using them, make sure to consult your doctor, just be sure that you’re good to go. Adding such things to your diet is a great way to boost your health and diminish the possible negative effects of menopause.

Find a reliable therapist 

Going to therapy used to be taboo, but things are much different nowadays, which is good. Destigmatizing mental health is the only way to treat such issues. Many women tend to experience depression, anxiety, and mood swings during menopause, and if nothing else works, going to therapy can be quite helpful. Once you’re able to talk about your problems, you’ll also realize you have an amazing tool at your disposal: the ability to deal with mental health difficulties in a self-caring and kind manner. However, remember that therapy requires time and effort, so don’t expect amazing results overnight. 

Learn how to truly love yourself 

Self-love is the most powerful weapon that can chase away all the insecurities and doubts. And menopause is something that tends to affect female self-confidence to a degree. Therefore learning how to love yourself is a great way to cope with aging. Aside from the above-mentioned therapy, you can also use meditation, affirmations, and journaling to empower yourself. Also, if you surround yourself with supportive and kind people, you’ll be able to deal with menopause in a much more constructive and positive way. 

Love yourself
Photo by Maria Lupan on Unsplash

Give your body a break sometimes

Working too much or being busy in general can result in disorganized eating and very little rest. Both of these can negatively affect you, which is why it’s important to give yourself a break at times. For example, opting for some types of detoxification can free your body of harmful stuff, while taking a day off to rest will help your body recuperate from hectic day-to-day challenges. Remember that there is no need to feel guilty about wanting to rest because everyone deserves a break sometimes, including yourself.

Don’t be afraid to ask for support 

Some people have issues with asking for help. If you’re one of them, keep in mind that only once you ask for help, you’ll actually be able to receive it. Also, practice makes perfect. When it comes to menopause, it’s safe to say that it is a period that requires a lot of support and care, especially from loved ones. Hence, rather than sulking and/or feeling sorry for yourself, make sure to talk to your family members/friends and ask for their support and kindness. That way, they’ll know how to approach you without being insensitive or uncaring. 

Conclusion 

Every woman must go through menopause, so once it happens to you, it’s advisable to be prepared without panicking. Talking to a doctor, therapist, or loved ones can help alleviate symptoms. Also, try to eat healthily and, if possible, add exercise to your daily routine. That will help you feel better, stronger, and more confident. 

Featured Photo by Artem Beliaikin from Pexels