They say that humour is the best medicine, today is one of those days where I need a good laugh. As I climb that hill to reaching 50, my brain seems to be turning to mush. I used to be well organized, a super woman and ready at the drop of a hat for those who needed me.
Well it seems that my organizational skills have taken a holiday, my super woman cape is way to small and wrinkled and if you need me to help you, give me at least a month’s notice, then call me three times a week to remind me of the date and time that I am to be helping you.
So what do we blame it on? Is it perimenopause, stress, depression or lack of energy? Once we know what it is, how the heck do we fix it?
Here are a few suggestions from me on how to deal with life as we start the climb.
Healthy diet and exercise – it is so important no matter what age we are at. Nothing is better for you than a regular and consistent routine for diet and exercise. Reduce your consumption of simple sugars and caffeine, which can make symptoms worse. You'll not only feel better, but you may also be preventing long-term health problems. As we get older it is harder for our bodies to breakdown things that are bad for us.
Limit alcohol intake– as stressed as we are and think it will make us feel better….we know it won’t….. not to mention hangovers are a lot harder to recoup from the older we get. The occasional glass of wine or cocktail is fine, just don’t overdo it.
Practice daily meditative breathing exercises - these exercises may reduce hot flashes and emotional symptoms and help with mood swings. It also gives you time to yourself, which we all need, so when the family sees you in the lotus position they know it is time to “BACK AWAY”
Support groups - these can be ones that are organized and structured or just a group of your friends who are going through the same thing. It’s not to whine and complain or to be judged, it’s a forum to share what is bothering you and sometimes we just need to say it out loud and then it doesn’t seem too bad. One of my dearest friends came up with a great phrase and I think each of us can use it from time to time, “Put it in a bubble and let it go!”
Vacations - Most adults do not take the time to play and enjoy themselves. Vacations provide a great opportunity to just let go and enjoy your time, whether on the beach or a theme park tour. Adults often ask how children have so much energy. Often the answer is simple, they take the time to play and enjoy life unlike their adult counterparts. The next time you take time for a vacation, make time to play and enjoy it.
At the end of the day life should be about BALANCE and sometimes it feels like we are at the top of the teeter-totter and they won’t let us down. I have to admit that I am one of the worst offenders when it comes to a balanced lifestyle and it does affect me. So, I am actually going to stop being a hypocrite and take some of my own advice. The first thing I am going to do, is something that makes me smile and is for me, and then I will focus on the rest of what I have to do.
I would love to hear how some of you maintain balance in your busy and hectic lives. Please send me an email at [email protected]
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