How to Sleep Better With Menopause

P.S And wake up with a smile

There is no greater happiness than a good night’s sleep, it boosts our well-being and brings joy to the little things. Though anyone going through menopause knows, drifting off can be far from easy. The good news is there are natural ways to get yourself back to the land of nod and waking up with a smile. Let’s take a look at menopause, why it affects our sleep, and most importantly what we can do about it. 

What is menopause?

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. In body language? The end of your monthly cycles. While the average age this occurs is between 40-55… the bracket is by no means exclusive. It tends to come on gradually, with hormones starting to change during a period known as perimenopause. This can be a tough time emotionally and you can experience all kinds of unpleasant symptoms, though rest assured this is something you are not alone with. Menopause is a natural process that can also bring meaningful change and growth. 

If you think you might be experiencing menopause, here are some of the symptoms to look out for. 

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Hot flashes – are one of the most complained about symptoms of menopause. Especially at night time which leads to tossing and turning more than sleeping. Waking up irritable? Anxious? Tired? All common side effects of not getting enough shut-eye. 

Low mood – Feeling less perky than usual? Many women report feeling low and mood swings when going through menopause which is not made any better by lack of sleep.

Forget me not- Never mind baby brain, cognitive changes are also known to occur during menopause. So do not worry if you put the coffee in the fridge!

Jeans feeling snug? Before you put down the cake, understand weight gain due to hormonal changes can also be common at this time. Be kind to yourself and enjoy your treats.

While these symptoms are not exclusive, if some of them sound familiar you could be going through menopause. It could be worth speaking to your doctor for help to ease the symptoms, though better sleep is a good place to start. And when it comes to sleep and menopause… It seems nature knows best.

Here are three natural things that could help you get a better night’s kip.

Natural tips for sleeping better with menopause

Fed up counting sheep till the early hours? You are not alone. 30-60% of women going through menopause have problems with sleep. If you are looking for ways to drift off naturally, these are some great things to try.

1. Fill up on the good stuff – If there was ever a time to give a little more TLC to your body, it is during menopause. Filling up on natural foods will not only ease your symptoms, but they will also be giving your well-being a healthy boost. Bones can weaken during menopause due to hormonal changes so up your intake of calcium and vitamin D- think lots of yummy yogurts, seeds, beans, and even a bit of cheese…. Who said menopause was all bad? 

2. Stick to a bedtime routine – Night owl or bright-eyed morning person? Whichever you are, tucking in and waking up at the same time every day will help you sleep better. Your body and mind will know when to switch off. And to ease things along further… unwind with a hot bath and avoid phones and screens before bed so when you snuggle into those covers you feel nice and relaxed. 

3. Cool things down – Speaking of covers, what you sleep on and in during menopause can play a big part in how well you rest. Going for thermoregulating materials like bamboo bedding will help ease those night sweats, keeping you cool and comfy till morning. Not only is the fabric luxuriously soft, but the plant’s natural properties also make it hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking so your bedding stays nice and fresh. And most importantly you stay cool, cosy, and ready to drift off. 

Menopause affects each one of us differently, though whatever your symptoms, remember above all to be kind to yourself. Make self-care and sleep a priority, if that means a bit of cheese, indulgent baths, and fancy new bedding. So be it!

There is only one of you, and she deserves looking after. 

Sweet Dreams.