Perimenopause is Real—Here’s How I’m Taking Care of Me

Let’s talk about something we don’t talk about enough: perimenopause.

As a 40-something-year-old Black woman balancing work, wellness, and womanhood, I started noticing changes in my body I couldn’t ignore. The late-night heat waves. The brain fog. The mood swings that felt like emotional whiplash. The exhaustion that sleep just couldn’t fix.

At first, I thought I was slipping. Maybe I needed to work out more. Eat cleaner. Meditate harder. But this wasn’t burnout—it was biology. I was in perimenopause, the often misunderstood transition before menopause, and my body was sounding the alarm.

But here’s the thing: once I stopped ignoring the signs and started listening, I found a rhythm. A routine. A way to honor my body, not fight it.

Here’s how I’m taking care of me—mind, body, and soul—through perimenopause:

I Prioritize Rest Without Guilt

Sleep hits different in your 40s. I used to pride myself on being a night owl and early riser, but my body had other plans. Now? I protect my rest like I protect my peace.

• I wind down early and put my phone on Do Not Disturb.

• I’ve invested in blackout curtains and a sleep mask.

• I no longer feel guilty about naps—they’re part of my healing.

  
  

🛌 Real Talk: Rest isn’t lazy. It’s necessary.

I Move Because It Feels Good, Not to Shrink Myself

Perimenopause can come with weight gain, but I’ve shifted my focus. I’m no longer chasing a smaller body—I’m chasing a stronger, healthier me.

• I walk 3 days a week. It clears my mind and energizes my body.

• I strength train 3–4 times a week to build muscle and protect my bones.

• I stretch daily because my joints deserve love too.

Movement has become my medicine—not a punishment.

I Nourish Myself Like I Deserve to Thrive

No crash diets. No shame spirals. Just food that fuels me.

• I eat more fiber, leafy greens, and colorful veggies to support hormones.

• I’ve added berries and seafood to my weekly rotation.

• I limit sugar and alcohol—not for perfection, but to feel my best.

But yes, I still season my food. I learned you can still enjoy healthy soul food (but that’s a post for another day).

I Check In With My Doctor (and Ask the Questions!)

Black women are often misdiagnosed, dismissed, or ignored in medical spaces. I advocate for myself hard.

• I ask about hormone levels, iron, thyroid, and vitamin D.

• I track my symptoms and bring notes to appointments.

• I’m not afraid to get second opinions—or switch providers.

Your voice matters in the doctor’s office. Use it.

I Make Space for My Emotions

Perimenopause can mess with your mood. Some days I cry. Some days I rage. Some days I laugh until my belly aches.

All of it is valid.

I journal. I talk to a therapist. I light candles and take long showers. I play music that speaks to my spirit. I talk to friends who see me.

It’s alright to feel what you feel then focus on what’s real.

Sis, You’re Not Alone.

If you’re in your late 30s or 40s and wondering what’s going on with your body—know this: you’re not crazy, you’re not lazy, and you’re not broken.

You’re changing.

You’re evolving.

You’re becoming even more powerful than you were before.

You don’t have to go through this alone—we’re in this together.

With love,

Fallon