Drained and depleted?
Right now as I’m typing this I’m trying not to nod off…Please don’t be offended!
Menopause fatigue can be debilitating. Hormonal fluctuations in the lead up to and time around menopause can significantly affect energy levels in many respects.
Tiredness may occur due to insomnia and disturbed sleep caused by night sweats, anxiety and restlessness. Mental fatigue makes it hard to concentrate, make decisions and remember things.
Many women find they have less physical energy and exercise feels harder than it used to. Walking or going upstairs may take more effort and leave you struggling for breath. Your recovery after exercise can also take a lot longer.
If this resonates with you I ask you not to be too hard on yourself.
Here are just a few suggestions on how you can support yourself in this challenging period.
- Preserving your muscle mass is the best thing you can do for your health to keep you in good shape through and beyond menopause. It is also recognised as being one of the best anti – aging activities for your body and brain! It will tire you out less than higher intensity cardio and be easier to recover from. Try to do at least two 30 minute strength – training sessions per week. Group exercise classes are a great way to make this enjoyable and sociable – just ask my ‘Pump it Up!’ class regulars : https://so-fit.co.uk/classes/
- Ensure you exercise regularly but reduce the intensity if you’re struggling to maintain your previous routine and choose activities that benefit your mental wellbeing such as countryside walks and yoga.
- Unfortunately weight gain is a common consequence of hormonal changes but a combination of a good exercise strategy, stress management, positive mindset and nutritional plan – primarily through blood sugar control – can give you the best chance of being healthy, fit and happy through ‘The Change’.
I’m excited to share more details in my next post!