Grief is a natural part of life.
The pain of grief and the loneliness of loss are challenging to face at any time life—even more during menopause.
According to the NHS, the menopause occurs between the ages of 45-55—often this means it coincides with caring responsibilities for elders.
During the menopause, women experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms. From hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings. It’s a period of transition and change.
Coping with the loss of a loved one, like a parent or spouse at this time raises unique challenges.
Grief is like fear—one minute you’re okay, the next minute, it feels like a tidal wave has hit you.
Also, grief is different for everyone—we each have our own coping mechanisms.
What’s vital is you take each day one at a time and are kind to yourself.
Here are four tips to help you cope with grief during the menopause.
Tip 1: Prioritise self-care
Saying yes to looking after your physical and mental health is essential when you’re grieving to prevent overwhelm and burnout. Doing things, you know are right for you will help you feel healthier and more in control over your life. Be gentle with yourself by taking things at your own pace. It’s not a race. Small positive actions each day can make a massive difference to how you feel. Rest, choose healthy food, walk in the fresh air, don’t over commit yourself, schedule 15minutes every day to yourself.
Tip 2: Permit yourself to say ‘no’
It can be tempting to pack your diary with activities to avoid the silence. But this is a recipe for burnout. As the saying goes, you can pour from an empty cup. Instead, prioritise your to-do list. If something feels too much or doesn’t feel right for you, don’t do it. Rather, focus on what lights you up and makes you happy.
Tip 3: Practice good sleep hygiene
Sleep is vital in helping your body and mind recover, replenish, and rest. Also, a lack of sleep can impact on your immune system and hormones, increasing menopausal symptoms.
Create positive sleep habits.
Such as go to bed at the same time every day (including weekends). Avoid caffeine or other stimulants before bed. Make your room dark, relaxing and calm. If you’re struggling to sleep, try taking a supplement like Kira Restful Sleep, made from valerian, a traditional herb used to treat occasional sleep disturbances and mild anxiety for thousands of years (the ancient Greeks and Romans swore by it!)
Tip 4: Ask for help
After the loss of a loved one you feel like you need to re-learn how to live without that person. Being honest about your feelings, can help you feel less alone and more connected. Also, if you have other responsibilities, like looking after children, a demanding job or caring for someone, it’s even more important to ask for support. There are plenty of different options from counselling, bereavement groups to online forums you can join. Just choose what feels right for you.
If you want to treat your menopausal symptoms naturally, Kira offers a range of natural supplements designed specifically for women.
Our range includes Kira Menopause Relief, Kira Low Mood Relief, Kira restful sleep, Kira Hormonal Balance.
more in BIO https://www.kiraforwomen.co.uk/index.php/articles