If you’re in your mid to late 30s, or 40s, then hot flashes, mood swings and anxiety ridden nights of no sleep may be a regular part of your world these days. Our mothers didn’t really talk about this perimenopause stage, they focused more on menopause. So, these symptoms may be coming as a shock to many of you. But don't worry, we're in this together, and we’re going to share some real talk about navigating this hormonal roller coaster.

First things first, let's address the elephant in the room – or should I say, the unpredictable thermostat in your body. One minute you're freezing, the next you're considering moving to the Arctic. Pro tip: layering isn't just for winter anymore. It's your new fashion statement. Embrace it!

Now, about those mood swings. One day you're channeling your inner zen master, the next you're ready to ugly-cry over a toilet paper commercial. It's not you, it's your hormones playing ping-pong with your emotions. The next time you’re feeling that way, try a good belly laugh. Queue up your favorite comedy special or call that friend who always cracks you up. Laughter is the best medicine, especially when your estrogen is playing hide and seek.

Let's talk about the dreaded "meno-pot" – that stubborn belly fat that seems to appear overnight. It’s common for women to gain 12 pounds, maybe even 20 pounds. One FASTer Way client was at her pregnancy weight, and hadn’t changed anything about her eating habits or exercise routine. It’s perplexing how this happens despite your best effort. But, before you swear off carbs and scale back on HIIT because some trendy social media influencer told you to, or worry about intermittent fasting being too hard on your aging body, lean in to the FASTer Way principles that can help you fight the expanding waistline, night sweats and lack of energy. 

Here are a few body-loving strategies to try:

• Nourish yourself with colorful, whole foods that make you feel energized. Did you know eating whole foods can help your body burn fat? You don’t have to do anything else. Just ditch processed and eat whole foods. 

• Move your body in ways that bring you joy – dance party, anyone? Try a walking meditation like those in the FASTer Way to Fat Loss, or maybe guided Sprints.  

• Practice self-compassion – our mantra is Progress over Perfection.

If you're tossing and turning more than a rotisserie chicken, you're not alone. And here’s the thing about sleep: good sleep can help you reduce stress, and less stress can help you burn fat; so if you’re getting bad sleep, you could be ramping up stress and blocking the fat burn. But, it’s hard to find good sleep these days. 

Try these sleep-enhancing tricks:

Spritz your pillow with lavender spray

• Invest in silky-soft pajamas
• Keep your bedroom cool and dark
• Limit screen time before bed (yes, that includes doom-scrolling)
• Try a magnesium supplement if you are still struggling to doze off and enjoy deep sleep

Remember, perimenopause isn't a sentence – it's a transition. It's your body's way of saying, "Hey, we're entering a new chapter, and it's going to be amazing!" So buckle up, buttercup. We're on this rollercoaster together, and the view from the top is spectacular.

Remember, you've got this. Perimenopause has nothing on you! Check out the FASTer Way to Fat Loss program here and use our clinically proven app and science backed strategies for optimal health and nutrition during this decade of life and beyond.

‍