Understanding the Journey and Owning your Menopause

Here we are in June and if you haven’t already been bombarded with media propaganda telling you that it’s time to get your body ‘beach ready’, we need to know your secret!

This time of year can be hard for all women but as we approach the menopause the issue of body confidence really starts to feel magnified. But don’t panic ladies…. This does NOT need to be the case.

Body confidence is a multifaceted aspect of self-esteem that encompasses how we perceive and feel about our bodies. It’s a journey influenced by various factors, including societal standards, personal experiences, and of particular reference here – biological changes………hello perimenopause!

Perimenopause, often referred to as the menopausal transition, typically begins several years before menopause. It’s marked by hormonal fluctuations and can bring about a range of physical and emotional changes, including hot flushes, mood swings, and changes in body composition. As women navigate this transition, it’s unsurprising that their body confidence can be significantly affected.

One of the primary reasons perimenopause can impact body confidence is the physical changes it brings. Hormonal fluctuations during this time can lead to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, as well as changes in muscle mass and skin elasticity. These changes can challenge traditional notions of beauty and femininity, causing women to feel disconnected from their bodies and less confident in their appearance.

Moreover, perimenopause can also trigger symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, and increased body hair, further exacerbating feelings of discomfort and self-consciousness. Women may find themselves grappling with body image issues they haven’t encountered before, as their bodies respond to hormonal shifts in unpredictable ways.

The psychological impact of perimenopause on body confidence should not be underestimated either. Hormonal changes during this time can contribute to mood swings, anxiety, and feelings of low self-esteem, all of which can influence how women perceive themselves and their bodies. The combination of physical discomfort and emotional turbulence can create a perfect storm, the impact of which, you’ll certainly benefit from our support in managing.

The world we live in isn’t always on our side either. In a culture that often glorifies youth and equates beauty with youthfulness, women going through perimenopause may feel invisible or undervalued. The lack of representation of older women in media and advertising can further reinforce feelings of inadequacy and invisibility.

However, the great news is, that despite the challenges it presents, perimenopause can also be an opportunity for women to redefine their relationship with their bodies and cultivate a more positive sense of self-esteem. Embracing the changes that come with this life stage and recognising the beauty in ageing can empower women to embrace their bodies in all their complexities.

“So many women I’ve talked to see menopause as an ending. I’ve discovered that this is your moment to reinvent yourself after years of focusing on the needs of everyone else.” – Oprah Winfrey

When you get to the moment when you’re able to reframe perimenopause as an opportunity to embrace and reconnect with your body, that’s where the support of an amazing community like ours really starts to support you in your transition to a woman who is comfortable in the skin that she’s in.

Together we can support you to navigate perimenopause with greater confidence and resilience. We’ll help you enjoy regular exercise to maintain physical health and strength, we’ll help you discover a balanced diet to support overall well-being, and encourage you to get involved with activities that bring joy and fulfilment.

Perimenopause can have a significant impact on body confidence, as women navigate physical changes, hormonal fluctuations, and how the world views women who are ageing. But on the Owning Your Menopause app you’ll discover the opportunity to embrace your body with acceptance and self-love, recognising the beauty and strength that come with this stage of life. 

By taking some time out to focus on your needs, you’ll be better equipped to navigate perimenopause with confidence and resilience,  and you’ll soon reclaim your sense of agency and identity along the way.

Join our community today and join the army of women with bodies that are always beach ready!