Embracing the Transition: My Journey Through Perimenopause

As I turned 50, I began to notice subtle but definite changes in my body. Around the age of 48–49, my once thick hair started to thin, my nails became more fragile and prone to splitting, and my cycle began to shift. At first, I put it down to everyday life, but gradually I realised, this was the beginning of perimenopause.

Like many women, my first instinct was to make small adjustments. I changed my shampoos and haircare routine, which helped a little. Then came the next stage: slight weight gain, hot flushes, and the dawning realisation that my metabolism was slowing down. Despite eating a balanced diet, I knew I had to fine-tune things to better suit my body’s changing needs.

And that’s really the key lesson here, perimenopause is not something happening to us, it’s something happening with us. Our bodies are preparing us for the next chapter, and if we listen carefully, they give us clues about how to adapt.

Instead of seeing this stage as a negative, I choose to look at it as an opportunity, a chance to reinvent myself and explore new ways of living well.

Food for Change

At this stage, metabolism naturally slows down. That doesn’t mean we’re powerless, it simply means we need to adapt. I’ve found joy in mixing up my meals, refusing to get stuck in the same weekly routine. I love scrolling through TikTok for new recipe inspiration, healthy doesn’t have to mean boring! Trying fresh, nutrient-rich meals is a simple way to support your body.

Movement for Strength

We know that declining estrogen affects muscle mass and bone strength. The answer? Exercise, but the right kind. It’s not about punishing yourself; it’s about exploring movement that challenges you, strengthens you, and maybe even excites you. Yoga, Pilates, resistance training, swimming, walking, the key is variety. This is the time to try something new and find joy in movement.

Stress and Balance

One thing I’ve learned: stress and menopause are not good bedfellows. Managing stress is essential. Reflexology has been a wonderful tool for me (and for many of my clients), helping to calm the nervous system and restore balance. But there are many paths to stress relief, meditation, journaling, time in nature, or simply carving out more moments of rest.

Rediscovering Yourself

Perhaps one of the most surprising parts of this journey is the emotional side. You may feel a little lost, questioning who you are now and what truly brings you joy. Perimenopause can be a powerful time of reflection, a nudge from your body saying: I’m still here, take me on a new path and look after me.

Whether it’s taking up a new hobby, spending more time on self-care, or finally prioritising things you’ve always put off, this transition can be the perfect opportunity to steer life in a new direction.

A Positive Transition

Perimenopause is not an ending; it’s a transformation. Our bodies are wise, and this stage is simply their way of preparing us for the years ahead. By listening, adapting, and embracing change, we can navigate this time not with fear, but with empowerment.

We have years—and adventures—left in us yet!