You know that woman who had everything figured out? The one who ate clean, worked out regularly, and lived her best life? Yeah, that was me in my 40s. Insert eye roll here
Let me tell you how life decided to humble me – because trust me, karma has a wicked sense of humor.
Picture this: I’m cruising through my late 40s, feeling invincible (seriously, my 40s were my JAM), when a fluke kayaking accident led to shoulder surgery. (Because why not add some unexpected plot twists to life, right?)
Surgery? Check. Extra rehab? Double check.
And while I’m dealing with this betrayal from my formerly cooperative body, my waistline starts its own rebellion. You know that feeling when you know something’s off but can’t quite put your finger on it?
That was me, watching my body throw a party I definitely didn’t RSVP to.
But wait, it gets better! (And by better, I mean more ridiculous.)
My face decides to join the mutiny with this mysterious bruised feeling. Turns out, those innocent-looking root canals from years ago? They were secretly plotting against me.
The infection was so epic, it ate through my bone and cost me three teeth. Let that sink in – my dental drama almost reached my nasal cavity!
Then came the bone graft. Because why not add more excitement to this adventure? Spoiler alert: it got infected. Two types of heavy-duty antibiotics later, my gut microbiome was giving me the middle finger. Weight gain? Check. Inflammation? Oh honey, I was the poster child. Food sensitivities? Let’s just say my previously uncomplicated relationship with food turned into “it’s complicated” real quick.
And don’t even get me started on the hot flashes. Remember those women I used to “empathize” with? awkward laughter The universe made sure I got a front-row seat to that experience. And my sex drive? It packed its bags and took an extended vacation without even leaving a forwarding address.
Here’s where it gets fun: The gynecologist’s solution? “Here’s some birth control and antidepressants. You’re just getting older, sweetie.” (Excuse me while I roll my eyes into next week.)
But here’s the thing – and this is important – while my story involves a perfect storm of shoulder drama and facial chaos, these symptoms can blindside ANY of us, often without the courtesy of a warning or explanation. Every woman’s journey through this phase is as unique as her Netflix watchlist.
That’s what lit a fire under me. I dove headfirst into research, and masterclasses, and became a hormonal health detective. Because here’s what I know now: We don’t have to just “push through it.” This isn’t about surviving; it’s about THRIVING.
This chapter of our lives? It should be spectacular. We’ve earned our wisdom stripes, we know who we are, and we’ve got too much living to do to be sentenced to a recliner. (Unless it’s a really fancy recliner and we’re choosing to relax with a glass of wine – then I’m totally on board.)
So if you’re nodding along, maybe laughing a little (or crying – both are valid), know that you’re not alone. And more importantly? You don’t have to figure this out by yourself. Because trust me, if anyone understands the chaos of this journey, it’s this former “I’ve got it all figured out” turned “holy hormones, what is happening?” woman right here.
Let’s navigate this together, with grace, grit, and maybe a few well-timed eye rolls along the way. Because while aging is inevitable, suffering through it is optional. And I’m here to show you exactly how to make this next chapter your best one yet.
Many women experience weight gain in their midsection during this phase of life. Let’s break down why this happens and, more importantly, what you can do about it.
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