You
knew it was coming. You have already noticed the signs –mood swings, hot
flashes, periods gone haywire, and you are prepared. Or so you thought!
Menopause
is a natural part of a woman’s life cycle. But it’s also a rite of passage, and
a monumental one. For some women it’s natural, unnoticed and easy, whereas for
others it’s difficult, maddening and intolerable. A lot also depends on what is
happening in our lives at the moment, and the kind of stress and strain we are
going through.
For
some women menopause spells freedom from irritating periods. It sets you free
of worry and care. Also you can enjoy yourself more, because there is no fear
of unwanted pregnancy!
Some
of us associate menopause with the passing over of our own youth, desirability
and most painfully of our charm. We feel the rosy chapters of our life are
finished. We may feel sad that we can no longer have a baby. In addition to
medical care and support there is a lot you can do to overcome this turbulent
phase in your life in a holistic and wholesome manner.
Let’s
see what they are.
Clean
up Your Diet
Whatever
the age or state of mind you are in, menopause is a signal for you to slow down
and take care of yourself. A woman’s body goes a lot in its lifetime puberty
and pregnancy and childbirth, coupled with all the demands of your hectic
lifestyle. Now is the time to rejuvenate, rediscover and most importantly it
accept and love yourself.
Being
healthy means doing all that you can to give your body the nutrition and care
it deserves.
What
you eat is what you are. So be careful to include in your food all that is
recommended for you during this period.
Fish
is healthy for you because it considerably decreases incidence of breast cancer
and heart disease. Post menopause, women
are considered to be at a higher risk of breast cancer and heart-related
ailments. You also need to up your intake of calcium for healthy bones. You can opt for low-fat dairy products
because they contain roughly the same amount of calcium as the whole-fat ones,
minus the calories. Take care to include a lot of soy foods like tofu, soy nuts
and soy milk in your diet. Soy is rich in plant estrogen can provide relief
hot flashes and also reduces the risk of breast cancer. Avoid coffee and tea,
but if you can’t give up your cuppa, opt for alternatives like green or herbal
teas. Also go on alcohol and consume only in moderation. Go green and vegan and take care to make
vegetables and fruits a regular part of your diet. Drink lots of water and
always keep yourself hydrated.
Make
Your Fitness a Priority
There
are several body issues that women face during menopause. It includes the ones
mentioned earlier as well as night sweats, urinary problems, a loss of libido,
low energy, weight gain and forgetfulness. This may seem like a nightmare, but
don’t worry, it’s just a passing phase brought on by hormonal changes. Your
body will soon cope and get adjusted to the new rhythm.
Weight
fluctuations are common during menopause, but unless there are extreme
fluctuations you need not worry. Regular exercise will go a long way in helping
you achieve and maintain a toned and fit body. Strenuous exercise is not
needed, a light workout at the gym for 20 minutes every day or a daily
half-hour jog in the morning may well be sufficient. You may not be able to compete with 20-year
old models in center spreads but you can still be a stunner!
Exercise
also helps improve blood circulation and can bring a rosy glow to your cheeks.
Take
Care of Your Thoughts
Mood
swings, depression and irritability plague many a woman during menopause. Be
kind to yourself and try not to be judgmental of yourself or the people around
you. Realize that life is a puzzle that no one has actually cracked. There is
nobody here who has not got a regret or guilt. Just let things be and allow
yourself to heal.
Yoga
and meditation are found to have calming effects on people, so get started on
them sooner than later.
Also,
keep a support system of friends and family you enjoy spending time with. Being
with women who are also going through the same phase can help you see your
problems from a different perspective. And you will be surprised to find that
your demons are no longer scary.
Love
Yourself and Have Fun
Make
sure that the first thing you do in the morning is look in the mirror and
smile. Have a small beauty care regime to adhere to daily. Pamper yourself and
try to look your best every day. You will be surprised at the number of
admiring looks and compliments coming your way.
Hug
yourself and try to be your best friend.
Fall
in love, or if you have a partner spice up your romance in every possible way.
If you have healthy children, try to enjoy their company as well.
Try
to be an active part of all social gatherings, be it a wedding in the family,
the service at your church or the farewell party of a colleague at the office.
Being a part of groups is found to considerably reduce stress levels and
encourage positive thoughts.
Conclusion
With
a deeper understanding of our body, mind and soul, we can effectively deal with
any major change or upheaval in our lives. Menopause is not a disease; it’s
only a change in the rhythm of our body. It is designed to make a woman’s body
more compatible with the demands of her advancing age. Let us take this change
in our stride and march towards a better, wholesome and rewarding life.