Dear Peri: How Strength Training is Helping Me Handle Perimenopause

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.

10 Must-Have Self-Care Products for Women Over 40

Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks—it’s about nurturing your body, mind, and soul. As I’ve navigated my own journey through perimenopause, I’ve realized how important it is to have the right tools for self-care. From dealing with sleep disruptions to unexpected stress and changes in skin and hair health, I’ve had to rethink my routine. Investing in the right products has truly made a difference in how I feel every day. If you’re experiencing similar shifts, here are 10 must-have self-care essentials that can help you feel your best every day.

1. Silk Pillowcases

Say goodbye to sleep wrinkles and frizzy hair! Silk pillowcases reduce friction, helping to keep your skin smooth and your hair healthy. They also help regulate temperature for a better night’s sleep. One thing about Peri is she’s hot. The less I wear to sleep the better. I wasn’t a big proponent of the silk pillowcase but it has not only saved my hair style, I sweat less, and my moisturizer doesn’t get eaten by my pillowcase.

Silk Pillowcase for Hair and Skin: https://amzn.to/4h7rzlu

2. Weighted Blanket

Struggling with sleep or anxiety? A weighted blanket provides gentle pressure that mimics a hug, promoting relaxation and deeper sleep. One of my biggest inconveniences is having nightmare dreams that awakens me at 2:31 am and I never go back to sleep. Although this sounds counter productive from number one, being cold and shivering comes along with the rollercoaster. Feeling secure with a soft blanket allows your mind and muscles to relax resulting in a clear peaceful mind to sleep through the night.

Jacquard Sherpa Weighted Blanket for Sleep Natural and Calming: https://amzn.to/41nUR9Q

3. Collagen Supplements

Collagen production decreases with age, leading to wrinkles and joint pain. A high-quality collagen supplement supports skin elasticity, hair growth, and joint health. If you’re not a supplement user, powder form has been included in many women over 40 routines. Smoothies of course are a great option. I’ve seen women put collagen powder in homemade oats, yogurt parfaits, and drink recipes.

Nature Made Collagen Gummies: https://amzn.to/3F7YyJd
Vital Proteins Collagen Powder Supplement: https://amzn.to/3F3aewO

4. Essential Oil Diffuser

Aromatherapy is a simple yet effective way to reduce stress and improve mood. Essential oil diffusers fill your space with calming scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus. This is especially great as I’ve transitioned from candles, incense, and other fragrance fused products. This is a great way to add fragrance without the toxins of a candle.

Aroma Diffuser with Essential Oil Set: https://amzn.to/43lUWx6

5. Neck Pillow

Sore muscles and tension ? One day after feeling tensed and tight I decided to use one of my kids neck pillows while watching television. After sitting at desk all day and probably not having good posture, sitting with a neck pillow provides relief, stability, strength, and comfort.

Homedics Pro Therapy Neck Massager with Heat: https://amzn.to/4kiuaMe

6. Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Protect your eyes from digital strain caused by screens. Blue light blocking glasses can help reduce headaches, eye fatigue, and improve sleep quality. I probably look like anyone’s grandma. I have readers in every purse, room, drawer at work, and at home. Not just for the health benefits, but they add style and personality.

Peepers Blue Light Blocking Reading Glasses: https://amzn.to/3XsKPTu

7. Journaling Set

Writing down thoughts, goals, or gratitude can improve mental clarity and reduce stress. A guided journal paired with colorful pens makes self-reflection even more enjoyable. At this point you probably feel like you are the only one going through something. No one understands you. Or no one believes you. Well that’s the beauty in journaling. You can say whatever it is and your journal will completely understand. When Peri shows up uninvited, tell her how you feel and just get it out. Most of the time we just need to vent. 10 FUN JOURNAL PROMPTS TO GET YOUR MIND OFF YOUR PROBLEMS

Self Care Journal, Daily Reflection & Wellness Book: https://amzn.to/3XspidE

8. Hydrating Skincare

Skin changes with age, making hydration a top priority. Look for serums with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and nourishing night creams to keep your skin glowing. Actives are great. But the way my dry skin has dried and dried more. Moisture moisture moisture is the only answer. Those expensive ones work great, however these last couple weeks Vaseline has had my skin glowing. Tip: After your moisturizer, simply put a thin layer of Vaseline either on your entire face, as an eye cream, or dry patches and watch the dewy skin shine in the morning. And the silk pillowcase keeps it on your skin.

L’Oreal Age Perfect Hydra Nutrition Ultra Nourishing Night Balm: https://amzn.to/41q1Q1N

9. Simple Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is essential, but it’s easy to forget! There’s plenty of options out there and I’ve tried many. Again, because I have become more mindful about reducing toxins, I settled on a stainless steel water bottle that isn’t the size of a laundry basket and I am able to carry it around without it being a nuisance. Also I settled on a 18oz bottle. This allows me to keep track of the amount I have drank and I am more motivated to keep my goal of refilling it every hour. Yes it’s a lot. But the more water I drink the better I feel and the less my symptoms show up.

Insulated 180z Steel Water Bottle: https://amzn.to/4bAneGn

10. Scalp Massager

Scalp health is often overlooked but plays a big role in hair growth and relaxation. A scalp massager stimulates circulation and relieves tension headaches. Peri comes with headaches and some women experience hair thinning or loss. Again I thought this was pointless but this works better than the balls of my fingertips.

3Pack Scalp Massager: https://amzn.to/4irtDpz

Prioritizing self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re looking to improve sleep, reduce stress, or enhance your beauty routine, these must-have products can help you feel rejuvenated and refreshed.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Perimenopause: The Frenemy Who Thinks Sleep Is Overrated

Ladies, can we talk about our lovely friend Peri? You know, the one who likes to show up unannounced, uninvited, and full of surprises. Lately, Peri has been on a mission to convince me that I don’t need sleep. Apparently, she’s decided I’m fine running on broken sleep—the kind that comes in small crumbs, like the ones left at the bottom of a bag of chips. Spoiler alert: it’s NOT fine.

I’ve done everything I’m “supposed” to do. Logging off screens early? Check. Getting my workout done in the morning to burn off energy? Double-check. A warm bath or shower to relax? Yep, nailed that too. And let’s not forget my nightly cup of sleepy-time tea, which I drink religiously, hoping it will charm Peri into giving me just one peaceful night. But nope.

Peri has decided she’s my personal trainer of chaos, poking at me with her endless symptoms and ensuring that my sleep is served in tiny, unsatisfying fragments. Oh, I’ll get to sleep… but she’s there to make sure I wake up at 2:47 AM, staring at the ceiling and contemplating life’s mysteries, like why I can’t remember where I put my car keys. Navigating Perimenopause with Humor

The Joys (or Lack Thereof) of Perimenopause

Let’s be honest: Perimenopause is like that one frenemy who “accidentally” insults you while claiming to have your best interests at heart. She comes with:

Hot flashes at the most inconvenient times.
Mood swings that could rival a rollercoaster.
And, of course, her latest trick—broken sleep patterns that would make a toddler jealous.

But here’s the thing: I refuse to let Peri win. Sure, she might have me yawning in meetings or Googling “Can coffee cure all symptoms of perimenopause?” at 3 AM, but she won’t break me.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you have to laugh about it. Seriously, laughter might be the best sleep substitute. It’s either laugh or cry—and I’m saving the crying for when I find a new weird symptom Peri decides to surprise me with next month.

So, what can we do when Peri plays her games? We fight back, of course! With humor, grace, and maybe a few extra cups of coffee. Oh, and naps. Naps are my new best friend, even if they come with a side of guilt for “wasting time.” Spoiler alert: naps are NEVER a waste of time.

Ladies, We’ve Got This

If you’re in the trenches of Perimenopause too, let this post remind you: you’re not alone. Peri may be relentless, but so are we. So, cheers to all of us still showing up, even when sleep feels like a distant memory. May we conquer the chaos, laugh through the madness, and keep reminding ourselves that this too shall pass… eventually.

Until then, I’ll be here with my sleepy-time tea, hoping tonight is the night Peri decides to be kind.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

#PerimenopauseChronicles
#WhereDidMySleepGo
#LaughterIsTheBestMedicine

Embrace Perimenopause: Simple Tips for Self-Care

Ladies, let’s talk about our uninvited but inevitable guest—Perimenopause. Yep, she’s going to be everyone’s friend whether we like it or not. But instead of dreading her, I say we embrace her with some humor, sass, and a whole lot of self-care! My approach to managing Peri is all about keeping it simple (and sassy, of course), or as I like to say, KISS—Keep It Simple and Sassy! Here’s how I’m navigating this crazy ride with a few easy but effective tips.

1. Focus on Diet

First up: what we eat! I’ve made it a priority to fuel my body with nutrient-rich foods that not only make me feel good but also help keep my symptoms in check. Think protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. I’m eating raw, whole foods—lots of fruits, veggies, beans, and healthy fats. The goal is to reduce inflammation, support bone health, and boost my mood because, honey, we are what we eat! 🍇🥦

2. Water and Tea Are My BFFs

Let’s talk hydration! Drinking lots of water has been a game-changer for me. Not only does it help with bloating, aches, and pains, but it also keeps my palpitations in check. I also make sure to have two cups of tea a day—green tea in the morning for a little boost and peppermint tea in the evening to wind down. Every so often, I mix in some lemons and ginger for a little extra flavor. It’s amazing how a simple drink can make you feel so refreshed, calmer, and soothing. The Fun (Not-So-Fun) Side of Being Over 40: Perimenopause Symptoms No One Talks About 😅

3. Walking + Weights = Winning

Walking has become my saving grace. I never miss a day! Walking with weights helps ease my back and shoulder pain, reduces bloating, and keeps me strong. It’s also a great way to boost heart health, mental relaxation, and relieve stress. Plus, nothing beats that post-walk mood boost! Just keep moving—it doesn’t have to be intense, just consistent.

4. Sleep Is Sacred, Period.

Let me be real: sleep is everything. These aren’t my college days where I was able to function off a couple hours of sleep. Making sure I get enough sleep is key to feeling good during the day—improving my mood, focus, and even weight management. I’m not afraid to take a half day off work to nap if I need it, because that’s what self-care is all about, right? Sometimes the best cure for Peri symptoms is simply… rest.

5. Embrace It, Don’t Fight It

Here’s the thing: you’ve got to embrace Perimenopause. Talk about it. Read about it. I’ve found some incredible women, doctors, nutritionists, and advocates who provide clarity and speak my language—because sometimes even your doctor thinks you’re a little crazy, right? Finding a community has made all the difference in helping me make sense of this wild ride.

6. Don’t Panic Over New Symptoms (Journal It Out)

Peri loves to surprise us with new symptoms, but don’t panic! If you rushed to the doctor every time something weird happened, you’d live there. Instead, I’ve learned to journal my symptoms—what I ate, what I was doing, the temperature, how long it lasted. Writing it down helps me stay calm and figure out patterns rather than jump to conclusions.

7. Mental Workouts: Read, Puzzle, Create

Keeping my mind sharp is part of my Peri-care plan. I’ve been reading more and trying to join a book club. I love doing puzzles, and my personal favorite: experimenting with new recipes! Keeping my mind occupied helps keep brain fog at bay and gives me a creative outlet. 📚🍲 It’s all about flexing those mental muscles!

8. Moments of Silence for My Sanity

Finally, one of my favorite tips: find moments of silence throughout the day. Giving myself time to just be—no noise, no distractions—brings me peace and helps me self-soothe. It’s like hitting the reset button on my day. A few minutes of calm can do wonders for my mental health, and I recommend it to anyone dealing with the chaos of Perimenopause.

So there you have some simple tips that you can try, tweak, or leave out. Perimenopause might be a wild ride, but with the KISS method—Keep It Simple and Sassy—you can embrace it with humor, self-care, and a whole lot of grace. We’ve got this, ladies. Just remember to hydrate, walk, rest, and most importantly, laugh through it all!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

#PerimenopauseWarrior
#KeepItSimpleAndSassy
#StrongAndSassyAt40Plus
#SelfCareIsQueen

Embracing the Midlife Hustle: Why Your 40s Are the Perfect Time to Start a Business

Who says your 40s are for slowing down? If you’re a woman navigating the ups and downs of teenagers, college-aged kids, marriage or the single life, and menopause, you’re already juggling more than most! But the good news is: now might just be the perfect time to start your own business. Yep, that’s right! You’re wiser, more experienced, and have the kind of grit that only comes from years of managing chaos—and that’s exactly why your 40s can be your entrepreneurial sweet spot.

After many years filled with incredible career experiences, relationships, challenges, and opportunities, one thought consistently creeps back to the surface: I don’t want to work for someone else. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with working for someone, but I’ve come to realize that my idea of life is different. I believe that your job or career should fit into your life—not the other way around.

Why Your 40s Are Prime Time for Starting a Business

First things first: you’ve been around the block a few times, and with that comes a level of wisdom, patience, and resilience that some younger entrepreneurs are still developing. You’ve likely raised children through toddler tantrums, teenage mood swings, and maybe even sent some off to college. You’ve navigated a marriage or long-term relationship, or doing it all being an amazing single parent, and you’re possibly going through perimenopause or menopause with all its quirks. All of these life experiences have shaped you into someone who knows how to handle pressure, adapt to change, and think on your feet. YOU HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO START A SIDE HUSTLE

And let’s not forget the freedom that comes with being in your 40s. The kids are older, more independent, and you’re likely finding yourself with more time to think about you. Maybe you’ve hit a point where you’re craving something that’s just for yourself, a way to channel your creativity, skills, and passions into something new. Starting a business now isn’t just about making money—it’s about creating a meaningful venture that’s aligned with who you are at this stage of life.

Here’s the beauty of starting a business in your 40s: you have a unique perspective that no one else has. Your life experience, whether it’s raising kids, managing a household, working in a career, or all of the above, has given you insights and ideas that can turn into a successful business.

Maybe you’ve been dreaming of launching that health and wellness brand that speaks to midlife women like yourself. Or perhaps you’re considering a blog, podcast, or online shop that supports other moms navigating the wild ride of parenting teens and college kids while managing their own wellness. Whatever your idea, your journey has prepared you for this moment.

But Wait…One Second

Let’s clear up a few things first. You might have heard that you’re too old to start a business, or that entrepreneurship is a young person’s game. Wrong. Starting a business in your 40s isn’t just doable—it’s a smart move. You’re at the age where you’ve accumulated knowledge, resources, and connections that younger entrepreneurs are still building. So, yes, you’re more than equipped to crush it.

Another myth? That starting a business is too risky at this stage of life. Sure, entrepreneurship comes with risk, but the truth is, you’re probably more financially stable now than you were in your 20s or 30s. You’ve learned how to manage money, you’ve developed a network, and you’ve got the discipline to make strategic decisions. Plus, the digital age has opened up so many low-cost options for launching a business—from online shops to virtual services—that don’t require massive upfront investment.

If you’re feeling inspired to start your entrepreneurial journey, here are a few tips to help you get started:

Find Your Niche: Reflect on your unique experiences to create a business that serves a specific audience—whether it’s other moms over 40, women navigating menopause, or a passion you’ve always wanted to explore. What problem does it solve?
Start Small: You don’t need to quit your day job or invest thousands of dollars upfront. Start small, test your ideas, and let your business grow organically. Remember slow and steady wins the race.
Use Your Network: At this stage of life, you’ve likely built a community of friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. Don’t be afraid to tap into those connections for advice, partnerships, or even your first customers.
Balance Work and Life: You know what it takes to keep everything in balance, so set boundaries to ensure that your business fits into your life, not the other way around. Make time for self-care, family, and you.
Stay Persistent: Just like you’ve persisted through sleepless nights with babies, teenage drama, and life’s ups and downs, persistence is key in business. You’ve got the resilience—now apply it to your entrepreneurial dreams.

Starting a business in your 40s isn’t just about adding another layer to your busy life—it’s about creating something that’s aligned with who you are and where you’re headed. It’s about turning your life experience into something impactful and meaningful, while also allowing you to grow personally and professionally.

So, to all the women over 40 who are managing motherhood, marriage, menopause, and thinking about their next big adventure: go for it! Don’t let age or stage of life hold you back from pursuing your dreams. You’ve got the wisdom, the grit, and the passion to make it happen.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Navigating Perimenopause with Humor

Ladies, let’s talk about our “special” friend—peri. You know, perimenopause. She’s the uninvited friend who rolls into town and brings all sorts of unexpected surprises. This week, my friend peri decided to throw some different fun my way—starting with a lovely shock-like, prickly feeling on my ankle. Yup, just my nerves randomly deciding to throw a party down there. No rash, no bug bite, just pure hormonal fun! 🎉

Oh, and let’s not forget the palpitations that made their grand entrance. They came in with a bang. Eating raw, drinking water, meditations, and even a day off work still didn’t send them packing. No need for excitement or adrenaline—peri’s got it covered. She’s the life of the party all on her own. Then there’s the classic brain fog—forgive me asking, “Did I already tell you this?” multiple times this week. My memory decided to take a little vacation, so I ramped up my reading to try and coax it back home.

Just when I thought things couldn’t get worse, tingling limbs decided to make a surprise appearance. And don’t even get me started on the allergies—I swear, I’d trade this nose for a new one if I could. And, of course, tender breasts—because, you know, why not make getting dressed in the morning feel like a full-contact sport? The Fun (Not-So-Fun) Side of Being Over 40: Perimenopause Symptoms No One Talks About

But here’s the thing, as much as peri is a bit of a rollercoaster, we’re embracing it. Why? Because we’re strong, fabulous, and rocking this phase of life like the queens we are. So, let’s raise a glass (of whatever keeps us sane) to the prickly ankles, foggy brains, and all the other quirks peri throws at us. We’ve got this!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

The Fun (Not-So-Fun) Side of Being Over 40: Perimenopause Symptoms No One Talks About 😅

Let me just say it: perimenopause is WILD. No one warned me that mid 40’s was basically an all-access pass to a theme park of bizarre, confusing, and downright annoying symptoms that no one talks about. Sure, we hear about hot flashes and mood swings—but what about the rest of the fun? You know, like the brain fog so thick you forget why you walked into a room… or how joint pain shows up like an uninvited guest to the party? Oh, and let’s not forget about the head-spinning, stomach-churning dizziness and vertigo that has you grabbing for the nearest wall like you just stepped off a rollercoaster.

a person wearing personal protective equipment

Here’s the full list of party favors I’ve been handed by perimenopause:

Brain Fog: Can’t remember where I put my keys? Or my car? Or what day it is? Welcome to the club!
Vertigo with Dizziness/Lightheadedness: I bend down to pick up something, and BAM—instant amusement park ride.
Joint Pain: Because apparently, my toes of all things are 70 years old even though I’m only 40+?
Dry Skin Patches: Who needs winter when you have dry skin patches all year round? Lotion has become my best friend.
Headaches: Perimenopause decided to give me a headache for free, with no expiration date.
Insomnia: Let’s stay awake all night and stare at the ceiling—sounds like a plan, right?
Hearing Problems: Is it just me, or is everyone whispering lately? I didn’t sign up for this silent movie experience.
Blurred Vision: Am I staring into a Monet painting or just trying to read my phone?
Anxiety: As if brain fog and dizziness weren’t enough, here comes anxiety to crash the party.

Yup, this is what my 40’s has given me. 🎉 And I’m trying to find the humor in it all.

But you know what? Even though perimenopause has handed me this grab bag of weird symptoms, it’s also inspired me to listen to my body in a whole new way. I’m now more intentional about understanding what my body needs and practicing self-care (aka, lots of naps, stretching, and treating myself to fancy lotions because I’m worth it). I’ve embraced this stage with grace—well, mostly grace and sometimes a little frustration—but hey, we’re all figuring it out! SELF CARE IS A LIFESTYLE

Ladies, if you’re feeling these symptoms too, just know you’re not alone. We’ve got this! Let’s laugh through the chaos and take care of ourselves along the way. 💪

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.