The holidays bring so many welcome changes. A chance to see friends and family, a return to beloved traditions, an opportunity to express gratitude and love. But the holidays are also a busy time of year, when even the most joyful tasks can begin to feel overwhelming.
That can be especially true for women going through menopause or perimenopause. Shifting hormonal balance can make it challenging to fully enjoy the holidays. Marsha E. Gorens, MD, is here to discuss some tips that can help residents of the Near West Side neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, manage this holiday season with ease.
The holidays are a time to indulge in favorite treats and traditional meals. However, be sure to make wise choices regarding your overall nutrition during the holiday season. Strive to make most meals and snacks align with your regular healthy routines.
When the time comes for a treat or indulgence, be sure to savor the experience from start to finish. After all, these simple pleasures are a big part of what makes the holiday season so special.
Another way the holiday season deviates from the norm is an increase in alcohol consumption. More social gatherings often mean more drinks than you’d consume in a normal week, so be mindful of how much alcohol you’re consuming.
Holiday gatherings often include toasts, seasonal cocktails, and new wines to sample. But the tipples can really add up quickly. Too much alcohol can cause menopause symptoms to flare up. It’s also incredibly disruptive to your sleep, which brings us to the next tip.
Restful sleep is a critical part of overall health and wellness. But for many of us, the additional tasks and opportunities during the holidays make it challenging to get enough rest. Your body needs a chance to recharge every day, and insufficient sleep or reduced sleep quality can leave you feeling anything but joyful.
Some people find it helpful to stick to their regular sleep schedule during the holidays, even if that means cutting a celebration short or altering travel plans. Others incorporate afternoon naps on days when they know they need a bit more rest. Regardless of the approach you take, stick to your plan and give your body and brain some much-needed downtime.
We know it’s easier said than done, but one of the best ways to stay balanced and calm during the holidays is by reducing the amount of time spent with people you don’t want to see or performing tasks you don’t want to do.
If you’re dreading certain aspects of this holiday season, take some time to really think about what is, and what is not, necessary. Very often, you can make changes to reduce your stress without upsetting others or causing a rift in your family or social circle.
Communication is helpful with this step. Be clear about which tasks you’re willing to take on, where you plan to spend the holidays, and the fact that you’re making these changes so that you can enjoy this holiday season to the fullest. You might even inspire friends and family to set their own healthy boundaries and prioritize what matters most to them.
Menopause and perimenopause are unique experiences for every woman, and the symptoms can change over time. If you find yourself struggling this holiday season, it may be time to consider seeking professional help.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can ease symptoms and help you feel more like yourself as you navigate this time of transition. The process is highly customizable and works by supplementing your body’s natural hormone production with top-quality synthetic hormones.
There’s no need to suffer through an uncomfortable holiday season when help is readily available. Reach out to Marsha E. Gorens, MD, to set up a time to come in and explore your options. Booking a visit takes just moments, whether you choose to connect online or by phone.
