One thing that is certain when it comes to menopause is that every person’s experience is different. Knowing how to navigate these bodily changes that accompany menopause can be both frustrating and lonesome. Self-care during menopause is very important. During this time in your life, it’s important to understand that what works for some people may not work for you. This is why it’s important to try a number of different self-care tips to see what helps you personally.
Why is self-care important during menopause?
Self-care at any age is important to help improve your physical and mental well-being. But during menopause, it’s even more important. Some women find that their bodies are changing and it’s hard to understand and come to terms with some of these changes. Some changes are very different to how you may be used to your body in earlier years so having that time to look after yourself and care for yourself can help you to get to know your body once again.
Simple tips for self-care during menopause
As mentioned, some of these tips may not help you where others do. It’s important to find what works for you so you may need to try a few different activities to see what supports you.
Get enough sleep
Sleep is one of the best ways to help improve your body and help relieve stress from the day before. If you’re not getting enough sleep, you’re likely to not feel as rejuvenated and refreshed as you could. Part of your self-care routine through menopause is to ensure you get enough sleep. You may need to assess your sleep hygiene and get rid of any other stresses in your life that may be stopping you from sleeping well throughout the night. Self-care and sleep mean checking in on yourself when you’re getting sleep, how many hours of sleep you’re getting and making changes to your home or your sleep patterns to ensure that you get a good night’s rest.
Learning to say no
You may have more time on your hands during this period of time, but this means that you have more time to look after yourself. Other people may not see that and may see that your free time is a good opportunity for you to help them with their chores and their life. You may feel that you are demanded of your time and you may be creating unnecessary stress in your life. A part of good self-care is the ability to become confident in saying no to others. Even though you may have the time to help others, if you don’t feel 100% dedicated to helping that person, it is still ok to say no. You shouldn’t have to feel obligated to help someone else feel comfortable so if you aren’t mentally or physically prepared to help others, it is still ok to say no to their requests. As in the previous point, if you aren’t getting enough sleep and you’re not well enough to help others with a task, it’s ok to say no to them so that you can get enough rest in your day.
Start meditation
Meditation doesn’t mean sitting alone in a quiet and empty room for half an hour each day in silence. Meditation to you might mean taking the time after a shower to apply moisturiser to your whole body to assist with your dry skin. Actively thinking and meditating on positive thoughts whilst applying moisturiser may be your way of meditating each day. Alternatively, you may be more comfortable meditating in a more traditional mode where you are sitting comfortably in a chair or on the floor and listening to calming music. Give yourself permission to take the time into your day to meditate on positive and affirming thoughts. You may also find that meditation before going to sleep at night may help you to get better rest.
Don’t be ashamed of seeking help
Menopause is quite a big time for many women. Many women don’t seek help from their doctor because they feel like they should be strong enough or well enough to get through this time in their life. But there is absolutely no shame in getting extra medical assistance from your doctor if you feel like your symptoms are becoming too much.
Your doctor is there to help you through menopause and help you understand more about the symptoms and ways that you can be assisted through this time in your life. They may also refer you to a women’s health specialist or gynecologist to help with any other symptoms you may be experiencing. Always seek help from a doctor if you feel like you are struggling or symptoms are too problematic.
Looking after yourself during menopause should be one of your biggest priorities during this time in your life. Never be ashamed to seek more help from friends, family or your doctor. Talking with your doctor may help you understand the symptoms better and help you to find some treatments and remedies to help improve your symptoms.
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