The Power of Purpose

Mental health issues in the menopausal transition are common: depression, anxiety, irritability, apathy, and full blown rage. These challenging emotions can feel overwhelming and unbearable, at times.

Women should never - however- underestimate the Power of Purpose to lighten their emotional suffering and to enable them to feel better about themselves and their lives.

Having a goal and a routine to your day, irrespective of symptoms, provides not only a sense of accomplishment, but it can also decrease painful emotions.

If exercise is your goal, we know that endorphins released through physical activity can dramatically improve mental health.

Meaningful work can make women feel valued and can also create healing social connections.

When symptoms are at their worst, it might feel tempting to pull the covers over your head and stay in bed, rather than engage with the world. I understand how difficult it is to move forward in the face of physical and psychological suffering - believe me - I've been there -  but it's so important to put one foot in front of the other and make choices from a place of wellness.

Every step in the right direction needs to be celebrated: doing some yoga or meditation, making a nutritious meal for yourself, reading a book or journalling. Self-care, beyond providing purpose, is also a sign of self-love and is vital during perimenopause and beyond.

As an avid exerciser, I used physical activity to cope with symptoms, and - honestly - it made the world of difference.

Here are Wally and I on the top of Hollyburn Mountain in West Vancouver.