The start of a new year often brings a surge of enthusiasm, prompting many to make grand New Year’s resolutions.  I am here to advocate for ‘habits’ instead. 

However, for perimenopausal and menopausal women seeking sustained well-being, the focus should shift from fleeting and long-term resolutions to forming good habits instead. A habit is a small and achievable change you can do consistently that will help you build to your bigger goals! 

This post will talk about why habits are the key to rediscovering vitality in fitness, mindset, and life. 

The New Year’s Resolution Trap

New Year’s resolutions often resemble quick fixes—a promise made in the heat of motivation but too easily abandoned as life’s demands take centre stage.  

I am not here to discourage the premise of New Years resolutions. I only want to help prevent the cycle of feeling like a failure and disappointment when things doin’t go to plan.  

Perimenopausal and menopausal women, navigating unique health challenges, deserve more than a fleeting commitment. Resolutions, often centred around drastic changes, can lead to frustration, guilt, and an unfulfilled sense of accomplishment. 

Why Habits Matter: A Transformative Approach to Well Being

Sustainable Progress in Weight Management

Resolutions: E.g. “lose 10 pounds in a month.” While the intention is admirable, drastic goals can lead to unsustainable exercise routines or fad diets.  

 Habits: Embrace the habit of consistent, enjoyable movement and learning to make one or two new (healthy) meals a week  

Whether it is daily walks, yoga, or strength training, weaving movement into your routine fosters lasting healthy joints and easier weight management.  

 Nurturing a Positive Mindset

Resolutions: E.g. “eliminate all stress.” A lofty goal, but stress is an inevitable part of life, especially during perimenopause. 

Habits: Focus on cultivating resilience through mindfulness, gratitude, and self-compassion. Daily rituals, like journaling or mindful breathing, create a positive mindset resilient to life’s challenges. 

Energizing Exercise

Resolutions: E.g. “Run a marathon this year.” Ambitious goals can lead to burnout and injury, especially without a gradual buildup. 

Habits: Infuse joy into exercise. Explore activities and find something you enjoy! Whether it’s dancing, swimming, or hiking. Consistent, enjoyable movement forms the foundation of a vibrant and energetic lifestyle. 

Leveraging Habits for Holistic Well-Being During Perimenopause 

Perimenopause is a transformative phase, but it doesn’t mean sacrificing your joy for life. Habits become powerful allies during this journey.

1. Balancing Hormones Naturally

Incorporate hormone-balancing foods like flaxseeds and leafy greens into your diet. Consistent, balanced nutrition can help ease perimenopausal symptoms and support overall well-being. 

2. Mindset Mastery

Prioritise self-love and acceptance. Engage in daily affirmations and gratitude practices to shift your mindset positively. A resilient mindset is your best companion during perimenopause. 

3. Holistic Fitness Routine

Integrate strength training to support bone health, a common concern during perimenopause. Consistent exercise, tailored to your preferences, becomes a habit that empowers you physically and mentally. 

The Shift to Habits: A Lasting Commitment 

Forming habits is not about overnight transformations but a commitment to gradual, sustainable change. As perimenopausal and menopausal women, prioritising habits allows for a more realistic and achievable approach to well-being.

Here’s why habits should take precedence in 2024: 

1. Consistency Over Intensity

Resolutions often demand intense, immediate changes. Habits thrive on consistency, allowing for gradual progress and adaptation—a crucial factor for hormonal balance during perimenopause. 

2. Holistic Well-Being

Habits address various facets of well-being simultaneously. From nutrition to mindset to exercise, adopting small, positive habits in each area creates a holistic approach to health during perimenopause. 

3. Sustainable Lifestyle

Habits are the building blocks of a sustainable lifestyle. Rather than imposing drastic changes, forming habits allows for a seamless integration of well-being practices into your daily routine. 

Unlocking Vitality: Your Journey Starts Now 

This year, shift the focus from resolutions to habits, and create your roadmap for lasting vitality during perimenopause and beyond.  
 
To guide you on this transformative journey, you can download your 4 ‘Essential ingredients’ Check Sheet for free to help you get started.  

Download it now to fall in love with your body and life, embracing habits that will redefine your well-being in 2024 and beyond. 

Here’s to making 2024 of embracing habits, rediscovering vitality, and thriving in the transformative beauty of perimenopause! 🌸💪