Menopause can really take a toll
on energy levels. This is especially true when the symptoms get bad, but even
when the hot flashes have cooled down, every little thing can seem stressful
and leave me completely exhausted.
Ironically for us, one of the strategies for fighting fatigue is to exercise
more. This can be such a drag, though, and sometimes the motivation isn't
there.
Here are some
tips I found to keep exercising even while fatigued with my own additions I
picked up through experience.
- Slow but steady is key here. You have to go at your own pace so that you don't get tired out too quickly, which is more likely to occur when you are fatigued. Short burst exercising, like sprinting, can end up being self-defeating and just lead to burnout.
- Make sure to get your stress low. A stress relief technique like meditation done right before a workout can help calm the body and mind, and also get you in the zone.
- Drink lots of water. The body won't care about the temperature when it comes to hydration, but ice cold water can make you feel more alert and ready to go. Make sure to always have some water on hand during a workout. Using a water bottle with a built-in ice pack can keep it cold for a while.
- Try to find a workout buddy. It doesn't have to be the same person every day, but having specific plans with someone means you're less likely to flake. They can also provide you with encouragement. :) If you find yourselves getting too tired or unmotivated, you can even make it a little friendly competition between yourselves.
- To add onto the point above, taking an exercise class can keep you going and focused. Classes also follow a regular schedule, helping exercise become a routine and not just something you might do when you're not tired.
Fatigue during menopause can be
so hard because it creeps up even when we're doing everything right: eating
healthy, exercising, sleeping enough, and trying to balance hormone levels.
Even if it seems like nothing is helping, don't give up! Everything we do is
all for the best, leading to a healthier lifestyle.
