Navigating Menopausal Changes: Embracing the Journey Ahead
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Chapter 1: The Reality of Menopausal Changes
As I witness older individuals, like a hunched elderly woman at the grocery store or a grandfather playing with his grandchild, it’s easy to assume they’ve always looked that way. However, witnessing my parents’ aging and now experiencing it myself has shattered that illusion.
I once thought my body was impervious to the effects of aging. After taking care of myself for years—despite some youthful indiscretions—I believed I would escape the sags, rolls, and changes in skin texture that come with time. Yet here I am, experiencing these transformations firsthand.
On one hand, I cherish these changes; they signify a life well-lived. The weight I’ve gained suggests I’m nourished, and for that, I’m grateful. At 55, I find myself faced with decisions I never previously considered. Should I attempt to lose weight? If so, what methods should I explore?
How To Combat Menopausal Weight Gain | This Morning - YouTube
This video offers insights and strategies for managing weight gain during menopause, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's body.
Do I need to incorporate weightlifting? Increase my yoga practice? Take more walks or fast more frequently? Should I eat less overall or reduce my alcohol intake? Do I buy new clothes that fit better and are considered "age appropriate," a term I detest?
I grapple with whether to hide my so-called "problem areas"—another term I struggle to accept. Should I finally come to terms with my current physical and mental state, without yearning for a return to my younger self?
Reflections on Weight and Identity
For much of my adult life, maintaining a stable weight was relatively effortless. My success wasn’t merely luck; it was also thanks to the wisdom passed down from my father, who enjoyed a long and healthy life. My body shape would fluctuate based on my job.
When I worked as an executive assistant, my sedentary role led to weight gain in my lower body. Conversely, running my own body products business kept me physically active, lifting heavy items and running after my three kids.
My lifestyle has always been active, and my clothing size remained consistent. However, as I entered perimenopause, I began to gradually gain weight without realizing it.
I vividly remember the moment I first noticed the change—during a holiday gathering, I struggled to button a pair of skinny pants. I dismissed it as temporary, believing the holiday treats would soon disappear from my waistline. But the weight lingered.
Shocking Truth About Menopause Weight Gain & How to Lose Belly Fat - YouTube
This video reveals the realities of weight gain during menopause and provides practical tips for managing it effectively.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Weight
Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to many, including myself, gaining weight due to stress and anxiety. I wasn’t consuming excessive amounts of food or alcohol, but the lifestyle changes took a toll.
When in-person work resumed, I managed to shed some pounds quickly, as returning to a busy routine allowed me to channel my stress more productively.
Coming to Terms with My New Body
Now, I feel as if my body has transformed into something foreign. It reminds me of my pregnancy, with its associated discomfort and physical changes. My current reality is different, as I’m focused on creating a women’s wellness retreat rather than nurturing a growing baby.
The weight gain is noticeable, affecting how my clothes fit and how I perceive my own reflection. I often question who this woman is staring back at me, grappling with feelings of unfamiliarity and frustration.
Finding Acceptance and Moving Forward
I’ve come to realize that obsessing over weight loss, particularly around my midsection, is not a productive way to spend my time. While I still think about my body and how it has changed, I want to focus on health rather than a specific size or shape.
Accepting that my clothing no longer fits is a step toward surrendering to this new phase of life. Surrender isn’t about giving up; it’s about granting myself the grace to accept what I cannot control and allowing space for healthier choices.
I’ve taken my health for granted in the past, but now I feel motivated to create a vision for the second half of my life. I’m determined to prioritize my well-being and embrace the journey ahead, writing about my experiences to foster understanding and connection with others.
Thank you for joining me on this exploration.