How I realised the importance of Balancing Peri-Menopause. Over the recent years, I've found myself compelled to embrace an entirely new approach to self-nourishment. My body underwent a profound transformation as it grappled with the relentless stress of the pandemic—managing a business closure without financial support, coping with the loss of a dear friend to cancer, all while being immersed in the complexities of perimenopause. This journey prompted me to reevaluate and revamp how I prioritise self-care and well-being.
As a committed business owner, I've come to understand the profound significance of nurturing not only my business but also my physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. This voyage is far from linear, especially when confronted with the unpredictable challenges posed by the various symptoms of perimenopause. Through this blog, I aim to offer a glimpse into my personal journey, the hurdles I've encountered, and the strategies I've embraced to sustain and nourish myself along the way.
The Rollercoaster of Emotions
I was experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions that peri-menopause brought into my life. As an entrepreneur, I was experienced anxiety, overthinking, grief, fear, and overwhelm often cast looming shadows, making it quite challenging to maintain a sense of equilibrium. However, I've come to understand that acknowledging these emotions would be the initial step toward nurturing myself effectively.
Anxiety frequently snuck in, leaving me with a persistent sense of unease, turning everyday tasks into daunting challenges. Its physical manifestations include a racing heart, sweaty palms, or a knot in my stomach. Overthinking lead me down a rabbit hole of ceaseless thoughts, causing me to second-guess myself and meticulously scrutinize even the smallest decisions. Grief manifested as an overwhelming sadness and an insatiable longing, occasionally accompanied by intense moments of sorrow and memories that pull at my heartstrings. Fear tended to take the form of a pervasive sense of impending danger or doom, heightening my alertness and prompting avoidance of situations that triggered these anxious feelings. Insomnia disrupting my sleep patterns, leaving me fatigued and irritable. Lastly, Overwhelm which often crashed over me like a tidal wave, rendering me momentarily paralysed, feeling ill-equipped to manage my responsibilities, and emotionally drained. Recognising the diverse manifestations of these emotions empowered me to address them more effectively in my daily life.
They haven't miraculously dissapeared BUT I am in control of them now. I understand them, they have become a friend and are no longer an enemy.
Nurturing the Mind, Body, and Soul
To counteract the impact of these emotional fluctuations, I've incorporated a range of practices into my routine to nourish my holistic well-being:
Meditation: Starting my day with mindfulness meditation has become a non-negotiable. It grounds me, calms my racing thoughts, and helps me approach challenges with clarity.
Nature: Being in the great outdoors is like a balm for my soul. Whether it's a hike in the woods or a simple walk in the park, reconnecting with nature revitalizes me.
Exercise: Engaging in gentle exercises like walking and weightlifting not only keeps me physically fit but also releases endorphins, which boost my mood and reduce stress.
Routine: Establishing a daily routine provides structure and stability in the midst of life's chaos. It helps me maintain a sense of control.
Journaling and Writing: Writing down my thoughts and feelings is a therapeutic outlet. It allows me to process emotions and gain insights into my journey.
Sleep and Nutrition: Prioritising quality sleep and a balanced diet ensures I have the energy and mental clarity to tackle each day effectively.
Positive Social Connections: Surrounding myself with people who bring joy, understanding, and support into my life is invaluable during this phase.
Reflexology: This therapy promotes relaxation and helps alleviate physical and emotional symptoms.
Asking for Help: Sometimes, the strongest thing you can do is admit when you need assistance. Don't hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or professionals when necessary.
Weekly Reflections: A Non-Negotiable
Regardless of how my week unfolds, one practice I consistently adhere to is weekly reflection. I take the time to ask myself, "How are you, really?" This simple question allows me to pause, assess my wellbeing, and consider what changes I can make moving forward. It's a self-care ritual that keeps me connected to my inner self amid the hustle and bustle of entrepreneurship.
Join Me on This Nourishing Journey
As I navigate the intricate dance of business ownership and peri-menopause, I invite you to join me on this nourishing journey. If you're interested in exploring mindfulness and meditation, I encourage you to check out my Meditation channel on YouTube or find me on Insight Timer. Additionally, if you're in need of personalised nourishment and support, consider booking an appointment at my clinic.
Remember, as a business owner, nurturing yourself is not a luxury—it's an essential investment in your success and well-being. Together, let's embark on this journey of self-discovery and self-care, finding balance and empowerment in every step.
Caroline Dearlove
Author
"I am the witness to your soul. I listen with grace by my side. I inspire you to be curious with how you learn the wisdom that this world has to offer you. Birthing your vision from a place of joy & desire. Holding you, so you feel safe to drop into your soul and allow it to lead you.
There is nothing more powerful than releasing who we are not, grounding into the earths magic and opening our hearts.
I am a teacher, a healer & a business doula - the tools that I use are Intuitive Energy Healing, Human Design, Bodywork & Meditation."
Website: www.carolinedearlove.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CEDearlove