Let’s Just Be Honest About It
Perimenopause has been a bit of a nightmare. I wish I could say I’m gliding through it with herbal tea in one hand and my glow-up era in full swing, but that would be a bit of a fib, wouldn’t it? Since it all kicked off, my periods have been turning up whenever they feel like it, like surprise guests who bring drama instead of wine. My moods have been wilder than a full moon in Pisces, and the night sweats? A horror story. I used to be such a lovely, cosy sleeper. I finally beat insomnia a few years ago, and I was doing so well. Knocked out by ten, slept through, woke up refreshed. A dream.
Then perimenopause waltzed in with her little chaos wand and poofed it all up. Now I wake up soaked, groggy, and swearing at the ceiling fan for not doing its one job. I have stripped the bed in the dark more times than I care to admit. The worst part? My cat Lulu thinks this is brilliant. 1am is now prime time for zoomies and knocking things off the dresser while I try to sort out my soggy pyjamas. Love that for me.
Eventually, I reached my limit. Something had to change. And if I’m being really honest, I’m too stubborn to go to a doctor unless something’s falling off. So I decided to see what I could do in a more natural way. Gently, patiently, and on my own chaotic terms. It’s not about curing anything. I’m not chasing perfection. Just looking for a bit of peace, a touch of comfort, and fewer tears over my bedsheets.
Herbal teas for hormonal balance
A warm cup of chrysanthemum tea has been such a gentle support during this time. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, it’s known for its cooling properties, which can be especially soothing for hot flushes and night sweats. I like to brew it in the evening as part of my wind-down ritual. It’s light, floral, and comforting, and sipping it slowly helps me feel more grounded and calm before bed.
Evening walks to soothe the nervous system
I started walking after dinner most evenings, nothing fancy. Just 15 or 20 minutes around the block. It helps settle my mood, eases tension in my body, and gets me off my screen before bed. Sometimes I watch the sun setting behind the trees, the breeze stirring my hair and kissing my cheeks. It’s not just movement, but a mindful moment. Even gentle movement can make a huge difference to sleep and mood swings.
Magnesium for sleep and calm
Magnesium has been a game-changer. I take magnesium glycinate supplements a few nights a week (added to my Happiness Smoothie), or use a magnesium spray on my legs after I shower. It helps relax my muscles and brings on that lovely sleepy feeling. It’s not a knock-out, but it’s subtle and supportive.
Keeping blood sugar steady
My mood is so much more stable when I eat in a way that doesn’t spike my blood sugar. I avoid refined carbohydrates entirely, except for the occasional gluten-free pasta. I don’t eat sugar or sweets at all, opting instead for fresh fruit in the morning and keeping dinners light so I don’t feel heavy before bed. When I don’t crash mid-afternoon, I cry less, snap less, and feel a little more like myself.
Natural fibre and wholefoods
A healthy gut helps your body manage and eliminate excess hormones. I focus on eating both probiotics and prebiotics daily, lots of leafy greens, and dark berries. I also avoid artificial preservatives, colourings, flavourings, and seed oils wherever possible. It’s not just about fibre and wholefoods, but about reducing the toxic load and supporting balance from the inside out.
Creating a sleep sanctuary
I’ve made a few small changes to my bedroom to support deeper sleep. I use a ceiling fan to help with the night sweats and keep the room cool. I’ve added blue-light blockers to all my screens, which helps ease my eyes and support melatonin production. Next to the bed, I keep my robe and fluffy slippers, a Frank Green bottle filled with water, and a bamboo face-mist to gently cool my face when needed. Not glamorous, but it all helps me feel prepared and comforted.
Mindful breathing and meditation
Even five minutes of deep, slow breathing can help reset your nervous system. I usually do it once I’ve turned off the lights for the night, listening to ambient noise (typically thunderstorms) as I breathe. It gives my body and nervous system a chance to fully settle. It’s such a small act, but it makes me feel calm, quiet, and more ready for sleep.
Essential oils for emotional support
I’ve started using a few deeper, grounding essential oils to help manage the emotional shifts of perimenopause. Myrrh and frankincense are beautiful for creating a sense of calm and spiritual steadiness, while sandalwood and cedarwood feel earthy and comforting when everything feels a bit off-centre. I add a few drops to my diffuser in the evening creating a quiet, nurturing ritual that helps me feel anchored and more in tune with myself.
Simple ways to stay cool overnight
The night sweats can come on without warning, so I’ve found it helps to keep a few essentials close. I have a bamboo face-mist on my bedside table and a chilled gel eye mask in the fridge that I grab if I wake up feeling flushed. I also sleep with a light cotton top sheet instead of a doona and keep my hair loosely tied up to avoid overheating. It’s not perfect, but every little thing adds up to a more comfortable night.
Talking about it
This one might be the most important. Whether it’s with friends, a partner, or even just writing it down for yourself, speaking your truth matters. I found so much comfort in hearing others say, “Yep, me too.” There’s nothing wrong with you. Your body is shifting, and you’re doing your best. That counts.
Perimenopause isn’t the end of your power. It’s the beginning of a softer strength, built from listening to your body and honouring your needs.
Final Thoughts
Perimenopause isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. With some gentle choices, natural support, and a bit of kindness to yourself, the ride can be a little less bumpy.
Some days I still cry over nothing, some nights I still wake up drenched, but there’s a softness to it now that wasn’t there before. I don’t feel as overwhelmed. I feel more supported, more prepared, and more in tune with what my body needs. It’s like learning a new rhythm – mine just happens to come with a lot more heat.
If you’re reading this and going through it too, I just want to say: you’re not alone. These little shifts add up, and every small step you take matters. Be gentle with yourself. We’re navigating change, not chasing perfection.
I’d love to hear how you’re gently supporting yourself through perimenopause. What’s been helping you feel more balanced or comforted lately? Share your thoughts in the comments or send me a message – we’re in this together.
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