Talking perimenopause with Anna
Menopause is not a one-size-fits-all journey. For some, it’s the most challenging time in life, while others breeze through it quite easily. For Anna, it took some time to realise what was happening in her body.
Tell us about your menopause journey.
It took me a long time to realise that something called perimenopause even existed. The symptoms were vague, and I constantly thought they were due to something else. The first thing I noticed was that I couldn’t exercise with the same intensity as before, and I needed more recovery time than usual, both physically and mentally. My body temperature increased, and my menstrual cycle was chaotic, with no regularity at all. I was constantly tired and never felt fully rested.
What made you realise you were experiencing perimenopause?
I spoke with a colleague who suggested I could take tests to check my hormone levels. I did, and that’s when I found out I was in perimenopause. At that time, I didn’t even know what it was! I thought you were either in menopause or not, and that I was far too young to start experiencing it already.
What is the best part of perimenopause?
I used to feel cold all the time, but now I hardly ever do, as my body temperature has increased. I’ve also become much better at prioritising recovery and focusing on what makes me feel good.
"The symptoms were vague, and I constantly thought they were due to something else."
Do you have any menopause tips or hacks to share?
The best thing you can do is to accept that this is a new phase of life and not compare it to how things used to be. Plan for short moments of recovery into your daily life and find new ways to exercise and stay active.
Knowledge is power – learn everything you can about the phase you’re in. There are many great podcasts, Instagram accounts and books on the subject. Also, I think talking to others and sharing your experiences is key.
Anna’s favourites
“My favourite pieces are the tee and the sleep Tee. The tee can be used with so many outfits, like a knitted jumper, dress or a blazer, and you feel fresh all day. The sleep tee is magic and here’s a tip - it can also be worn as a dress in the summer.”
