Owning Your Menopause is a space where we celebrate the journey of womanhood, embracing the changes that come with it, particularly during the perimenopausal years. If you’re in this stage of life, you know firsthand the rollercoaster ride of hormonal fluctuations, physical transformations, and shifting perspectives on body image. It’s a time when the mirror may seem like a battleground, but it’s also a time ripe for empowerment and self-discovery. So, let’s talk about owning the skin you’re in, because if not now, then when?

Perimenopause is like a second puberty, except this time around, we’re not eagerly awaiting adulthood; we’re grappling with the realities of ageing. Our bodies seem to have a mind of their own, betraying us with hot flushes, weight gain, and mood swings. It’s easy to feel like we’re losing control, like we’re no longer the masters of our own vessels. But amidst the chaos, there’s an opportunity—a chance to reclaim our sense of self and redefine what it means to be beautiful, inside and out.

First and foremost, let’s address the elephant in the room: our changing bodies. We’ve spent decades bombarded with images of airbrushed perfection, told that our worth is directly proportional to our dress size or the absence of wrinkles. But as we navigate perimenopause, we’re forced to confront the truth: beauty is not synonymous with youth, and perfection is an illusion. It’s time to embrace our bodies as they are—flaws, imperfections, and all.

Yes, our waistlines may expand, our skin may lose its elasticity, and our hair may turn grey. But each stretch mark, each wrinkle, tells a story—a testament to a life lived, challenges overcome, and battles won. Our bodies are not the enemy; they are the vessels through which we experience the world. So let’s show them the love and appreciation they deserve, celebrating their resilience and strength.

But owning the skin you’re in goes beyond physical appearance; it’s about embracing your worth beyond the superficial. That’s something I champion amongst the Owning Your Menopause community. It’s a time to acknowledge the wisdom that comes with age, to embrace our inner beauty, and to cultivate a sense of self-assurance that transcends societal standards. We may no longer fit into the mould of the “ideal woman,” but why should we? We are unique, multifaceted individuals, with stories to tell and wisdom to share.

“And I said to my body softly, ‘I want to be your friend.’ It took a long breath and replied, ‘I have been waiting my whole life for this.” – Nayyirah Waheed,

So, how do we go about owning the skin we’re in? It starts with self-love and acceptance. Treat yourself with kindness and compassion, recognising that you are worthy of love and respect exactly as you are. Surround yourself with positive influences—friends, family, the community on our app and role models who uplift and inspire you.

Practice self-care in all its forms—nourish your body with healthy food, indulge in activities that bring you joy, and prioritise your mental and emotional well-being. Seek support when you need it, whether from friends, family, or healthcare professionals. And above all, be gentle with yourself; this journey is not always easy, but it is uniquely yours.

Remember, owning the skin you’re in is not about conforming to society’s standards of beauty; it’s about embracing your authentic self and living life on your own terms. So, if not now, then when? The time is now to love yourself fiercely, unapologetically, and without reservation. You are beautiful, you are worthy, and you are enough—just as you are.