Dear anxious mid-life woman

Dear anxious mid-life woman,

As I sit down to write this letter, I can't help but think of all the challenges you are facing in your day-to-day life. I know that the weight of responsibility that comes with balancing work, family, and possibly supporting aging parents can feel overwhelming. Made worse by the fact that now you also have to contend with the physical and emotional symptoms of menopause, which can make every day feel like a struggle.

But I want you to know that you are not alone in this journey. As a fellow mid-life woman, I know how it feels to face these challenges head-on. And I also know that you have the strength and resilience to overcome them.

You are well practiced at juggling the many strands of your life, but right now I understand how your skills and stamina can feel tested to the limits. It’s not easy maintaining your career and taking care of your loved ones while you feel sapped of energy, flat, and are struggling with brain fog and lack of sleep. Balancing the needs of everyone and everything in your life with those of your own. It must be exhausting.

As you transition into menopause, your body is going through hormonal changes, that may mean you are experiencing a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including hot flushes and night sweats, poor sleep, mood swings and anxiety to name but a few. It can make daily life seem harder than it used to, but fortunately there are resources available to help you through this difficult time.

Please do allow yourself some time to take care of you, both physically and emotionally, it’s so important. I know you already know that eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and practising self-care are important, but this doesn’t need to be complicated. If you are going to make any changes to any of these areas of your life, take it one small step at a time and most importantly make it enjoyable; then you’ll have a better chance of sticking to your plan. Choose healthy foods you actually enjoy, keep moving in ways that you find fun and engage in activities that truly give you pleasure; whether that is reading, walking in nature, crafting, knitting, listening to music, a hot bath; whatever makes you smile and helps you relax.

A shift in perspective can also be a powerful tool in improving your well-being. So, I just wanted to remind you that menopause is a natural part of life, and that you can choose to view it as a positive transition into a new phase of your life. In China, menopause is often referred to as "Second Spring", a time of renewal and growth. You are moving towards a time to embrace your newfound freedom and explore new interests and passions. Whether it's taking up a new hobby or pursuing a long-held dream, the possibilities are endless.

Of course, I appreciate that balancing all of your challenges right now can feel difficult. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed, like you're constantly running on a hamster wheel with no end in sight. But you really do have the strength and resilience to overcome these challenges.

You have spent your life gathering wisdom and skills that will serve you well in this new phase of your life. You have the experience and knowledge to navigate difficult situations and come out on the other side stronger and more resilient than ever before.

So, as you navigate this time in your life, I want you to know that you have a community of mid-life sisters who understand what you are going through. You are not alone in this journey, and during the tough times, know that you can reach out and ask for help.

Embrace this new phase of your life with open arms and know that you have the strength to overcome any challenges that come your way.

With love from a fellow mid-life sister, Zena.