Dressing for peri/menopause and midlife body changes - Part 2
In part 1 of the Dressing for Peri/Menopause series, I shared all my styling tips for figuring out what to wear when you are dealing with hot flashes, bloating, body changes and weight gain to name a few.
But that’s just the half of it. There’s so much more you can do for yourself to feel better in your clothes that have nothing to do with what you are wearing.
I know because I’ve been navigating menopause myself since April. This time of life isn’t just about managing all the physical changes; it’s about reconnecting with yourself—your body, your mind, and your heart—and giving yourself the care you need. When you do, you feel stronger and confident to embrace what’s next for you, whatever that is.
Here are some practices that have helped me feel better, not just in my clothes, but in my life, during this chapter.
Strength training and movement into your daily routine
Connecting with your body, moving it on a regular basis and focusing on strength training makes a huge difference in how you feel during peri/menopause. Not only can it help with bloating, but moving your body makes you feel stronger, looser, and more energized. Find something you love to do…whether it’s Pilates, yoga, weights, or simply walking, the key is consistency.
For me, my morning walks are a pure joy. I love starting my day with a brisk walk and a podcast featuring inspiring women’s stories. It’s a double boost—movement for my body and motivation for my soul.
Over the past year, I’ve also committed to a regular Pilates practice. This is huge for me because I’ve struggled to stay consistent with exercise in the past. Now, I’m physically and mentally stronger, and that confidence translates to how I feel in my clothes. I may not see a big difference, but I feel the difference, and that’s what truly matters.
More whole foods, less processed stuff
What you eat during peri/menopause matters more than ever. Small shifts can make a big difference in how you feel and can help reduce bloating, puffiness and inflammation.
Prioritizing protein at every meal helped me curb my cravings and makes me feel more energized all day.
Adding a probiotic has improved my gut health and helped with bloating. It did take about 4 months to notice the difference.
Focusing on nutrient dense foods at every meal and really minimizing anything processed and drinking plenty of water really helped with my joint pain and inflammation.
After a year of all these things, I’m so in tune to how food makes me feel, that when I eat something that doesn’t agree with me, I feel it right away. But it’s all balance and figuring out what works for you. As a “foodie,” I don’t believe in diets or restrictions or quick fixes. This is a lifestyle change to embrace.
A morning routine of gratitude and reflection
It’s crazy how many women I talk to that feel the same.. the days fly by, you can’t get anything done, let alone time for you when it’s the most important time to take care of yourself.
I’ve created a morning routine where I journal, express what I’m grateful for, work on my writing practice and remind myself how far I’ve come and what I still want to do in my next chapter. Over time, this practice has shifted my mindset. I focus on the good stuff instead of what’s missing and sets the tone for me to feel my best each day.
Practice speaking to yourself with kindness and love
The way you talk to yourself matters. You can fixate on imperfections or practice seeing and appreciating all the good things about yourself.
I get it’s not easy—it takes practice. But consider this: Have you ever looked at an old photo of yourself and thought, Wow, I was really beautiful. Why was I so hard on myself back then? Now imagine your future self looking back at the you of today. What would she say?
Start speaking to your current self with the same kindness and love you’d offer your younger or future self, or even your dear friend. Over time, it will become a habit and will change the way you feel.
Embrace the journey
Life in midlife is like yoga—it’s a practice. It teaches you to be present, to appreciate what matters, and to let go of what doesn’t.
Instead of focusing and worrying about the small things that hold you back, celebrate how far you’ve come and where you’re heading. This chapter isn’t about focusing on what doesn’t work, it’s about considering the possibilities and embracing your evolution.
When you show up for yourself in these ways, you’ll not only feel better in your clothes—you’ll feel more like you. And isn’t that what it’s all about?
xo,
Laura
