Heather Williams is well-known when it comes to empowering women in midlife to prioritize their well-being and thrive. She is the founder of Journey24EverFit, an online fitness platform offering Fitness and Goal Coaching, Personal Training, and virtual fitness classes.
Is your body trying to tell you something? That foggy brain you're attributing to menopause might be stress. Those sleep disruptions you think are hormonal could be your body's response to chronic overwhelm. While hormonal changes are real and significant, there's more to the story regarding your body's signals.
Understanding the difference between stress and hormonal symptoms is crucial. Misidentifying them can lead to actions that not only mask the real issue but potentially worsen your menopausal journey. When we attribute everything to hormones, we might miss opportunities to address stress-related causes within our control.
The stress symptoms overlap
Sleep disruption
Menopausal: Night sweats and hormone fluctuations interrupt sleep patterns
Stress-induced: Racing thoughts, anxiety about tomorrow's tasks, and elevated cortisol levels disturb natural sleep rhythm
Mood changes
Menopausal: Hormonal imbalances affecting serotonin and estrogen levels
Stress-triggered: Overwhelm from chronic pressure, leading to irritability and emotional exhaustion
Energy fluctuations
Menopausal: Natural hormonal shifts affecting metabolic energy
Stress-related: Burnout from constant "fight or flight" response draining adrenal resources
Weight changes
Menopausal: Metabolic shifts due to hormonal changes
Stress-related: Stress eating, skipping meals, or over-exercising affecting metabolism
Temperature regulation
Menopausal: Classic hot flashes from hormonal fluctuations
Stress-response: Anxiety-induced sweating and temperature sensitivity
The hidden impact
My grandmother recently turned 103. Reflecting on her journey, I'm amazed by the technological advances between her grandmother's era and now. The medical breakthroughs she's witnessed have helped maintain her quality of life, even at this journey stage. While science and technology have given us tremendous advances over these generations, there are also times when they help us feel like we're running on empty.
To prepare for this article, I researched research from leading organizations like NIH, ACOG, and Girls Gone Strong. What I found validated what I see in my coaching practice and opened my eyes to new perspectives.
Much of the research overlaps in conclusions and findings; women report stress as a significant factor and obstacle to feeling at their best. These stresses are often amplified during menopause, even when hormonal shifts aren't the culprit. The takeaway is that breakthroughs and progress happen when the underlying source of physical discomfort and stress is identified.
Coaching insights
One of the benefits of having my GYN as a client is gaining her perspective and general insight into what my clients are experiencing. This has enabled me to coach them on what they should discuss with their medical and wellness team.
Action steps for better body awareness
Start by understanding your stress levels and triggers
Try to connect with the why of the stress. Are there things you are doing that contribute? Are you sacrificing your 'me time' or taking on everyone else's responsibilities?
Plan an action plan and ensure these steps align with your values and lifestyle commitments. For example, While work-related stress due to taking on too many assignments may be your promotion plan, is it in alignment with your personal life and commitments?
If you find you have many triggers, start with focusing on one
Get help, delegating household chores, asking for help with childcare, hiring support services when possible
These steps go a long way. They allow you to get to your yoga or Zumba class, take a more extended shower, or just sit quietly at the end of the day, giving your body the relief and release it needs.
Ready to fine-tune your ability to listen to your body? Click here to book a complimentary Wellness Chat. We'll map out what's driving your body's stress responses, create a sustainable plan that aligns with your lifestyle and goals, and design your roadmap for confidently navigating this journey.
Read more from Heather Williams
Heather Williams, Certified Fitness Professional
Heather Williams is a certified fitness professional with 37 years of experience empowering women over 45, particularly executives and business owners, to prioritize their well-being and reclaim their vitality through her holistic approach to fitness. As the founder of Journey24EverFit, an online fitness platform, Heather offers personalized Fitness and Goal Coaching, as well as virtual fitness classes. Her unique methodology uses fitness as a foundation for daily self-care, combining physical fitness with mindset strategies to help women rediscover joy, boost their energy levels, and thrive in both their personal and professional lives. Heather's clients praise her for her flexibility, sincere dedication to her profession, and her positive energy and influence. With her expertise and passion, Heather is committed to ensuring that no woman is left behind on her journey to optimal wellness.
