The winter holiday season can quickly twist into a tangle of emotions, logistics, dates, delights, and indulgences. This forthcoming season of gathering and giving comes with a long list of additional chores for an already-busy life for a woman in midlife and perimenopause.
Before your stress-levels shift up to the next gear, take a big breath, and scan for ideas that will help you take all the season has to offer in stride. Why? Stress can exacerbate and intensify the most inconvenient and least-fun of the current menopause symptoms you’ve been experiencing in your regular life. A few ideas to get your "scan started":
How will I remember to... drink water during the busy times... or at least get more uncaffeinated, non-caloric liquids in my body?
How can I get my best... sleep? I'm going to want to experience that during the holidays too.
Lately, it's been difficult to... find time for lunch (or whatever meal or task that feels good to accomplish). What would make getting this done easier?
Let's jump in for more ideas and get you set up, rather than stressed out.
A quick debrief: how did last year shake out?
Checking in so you can make a plan
What are the top 5 things (yes, small things) that could give you more energy, focus, peace, and presence?
What subjects are lately igniting your system to insta-rage?
The more specific you can be, the better you can make a plan to minimize or avoid your triggers.
It doesn’t matter what it is… but what is it? And hey, irrational is okay. Awareness of what triggers you to anger can only help you to make a good plan for the holiday at hand.
Once identified, stay with it, and ask, “What would help?” or, “What would be easier?”
How about, “What would be more fun, or more natural, and still accomplish what I’m going for?”
Here are a few options to help minimize the frantic feels and manage your stress for the long season of good cheer.
Have you traditionally been the “point person” for a holiday? Or, the hostess? Who can you loop in, in the group of loved ones, to lend more help? How about a co-host? Collaboration can be fun, though it may come with a bit of release of control… and pressure… and responsibility. #justsayin.
Remember what you’re doing all this for… and reassess.
Where can you lower the bar of expectations, take a breath, and have the best winter holiday season ever? The one that is best for you, your body, your mental and emotional frame of mind, and the ones you hold most dear.
Heightened stress and more frequent or intense menopause symptoms aren’t going to help you spread any kind of good cheer this year. Make a plan for less stress with an informed approach, a few boundaries, and a smart intention for fun and enjoyment for all, including yourself.
We'd love to hear what this brings up for you, as well as the brilliant ideas and strategies you and your loved ones will enjoy in the coming weeks. Consider joining and sharing with all of us in the Gennev community forums.
Join 200,000 women to learn more about your symptoms and where you are in the menopause journey.
TAKE THE ASSESSMENTOur Care Coordinator Kimberly is here to help! Schedule a 15-minute complimentary call with her and share your story. She'll guide you to the next best steps for you.
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