Let’s talk about an uninvited guest. Her name? Peri. Short for perimenopause. She doesn’t send a text, drop a pin, or give any notice. She just shows up—with mood swings, night sweats, sleepless nights, weight gain, and enough hormonal chaos to make you question your sanity.
Once I accepted that Peri was going to be a part of my life for a while, I decided I needed a plan—not just to survive her visits but to take back some control. Instead of dreading the rollercoaster, I started to do the research: food, lifestyle changes, better sleep routines, cooling pajamas, herbal teas, breathing techniques—you name it, I tried it. But the real game-changer? Strength training.
💪🏽 Why Strength Training?
I’ve always loved walking. It’s my moving meditation, my therapy, and my favorite way to stay active. But as I started noticing subtle (and not-so-subtle) changes in my body, walking wasn’t cutting it anymore.
I was losing and maintaining my weight. However, to achieve my goal of more tone and muscle I knew the solution. Every magazine, video, and woman discussed the importance of weight training. My doctor reminded me: during perimenopause and menopause, women lose muscle and bone density more quickly—and that can lead to everything from weight gain to increased risk of injury.
So, I started small.
👉🏽 Twenty minutes of strength training a few times a week. https://amzn.to/3EWhsDj
👉🏽 Light dumbbells and resistance bands. https://amzn.to/3SFanKk
👉🏽 Eventually, I added a weighted vest to my walks. https://amzn.to/3GWguHH
Then came the yoga-based strength workouts I found on YouTube (bless free fitness content!). And guess what? I feel stronger. My mood is more stable. My body is more toned. And Peri? She’s still around, but she doesn’t run the show anymore. Navigating Perimenopause with Humor
Ladies, this season of life is not a death sentence to your body or energy—it’s a call to strengthen it.
We don’t have to accept the fatigue, the aches, or the emotional exhaustion as the new normal. Our bodies are changing, yes. But they are still powerful, adaptable, and worth every ounce of love and effort.
Simple Lifestyle Shifts That Help:
- Strength train 2–4x a week with bodyweight, bands, or dumbbells
- Add a weighted vest to walks for resistance training
- Prioritize protein and calcium-rich foods
- Practice gentle yoga for balance and flexibility
- Create a night routine that calms your nervous system
- Stay hydrated and eat colorful, anti-inflammatory meals
Peri may visit, but she doesn’t have to take over. Strengthen your body and soul—you’re still the boss.
Are you dealing with Peri too? Have you found something that’s helped you manage her symptoms? We’re in this together. 💛
RosalynLynn
Be you so you can be free.