AnaUnpaused

Menopause is a transformative phase of life, but its challenges often feel overwhelming. The physical changes, emotional ups and downs, and societal pressures can make it hard to embrace this transition. However, my journey through menopause taught me resilience and the power of self-discovery. The Physical Changes of Menopause Menopause triggers various physical changes, including hormonal shifts that cause hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Weight gain, especially around the abdomen, becomes common due to a slowing metabolism and hormonal fluctuations. Other noticeable changes include thinning hair, dry skin, and decreased bone density. While these changes may seem daunting, understanding them allows us to tackle them with confidence and care. My Battle with Weight Gain Weight gain was one of the hardest battles I faced during menopause. I felt insecure and often turned to drinking to numb the feelings of self-doubt. I tried everything—diet pills, extreme...

  "The Mental Maze of Menopause: Laughter, Loss, and Finding Yourself Again"   The Journey Through the Mind's Fog Menopause is often described as a whirlwind of emotions, physical changes, and unpredictable moments. Among the many challenges we face during this transition, the mental fog—affectionately called "menopause brain"—can feel like the most bewildering of all. From struggling to remember where you parked the car to forgetting why you walked into the kitchen, memory issues can leave you questioning your sanity. But here's the truth: you're not losing your mind; you're navigating a perfectly normal stage of life. The fluctuating hormones during menopause can have a profound impact on memory, focus, and overall mental clarity. It’s both terrifying and, dare I say, a little funny when you look back on some of the moments it creates. A Laugh at My Own Expense Speaking of funny moments, let me share a quick story that my husband still ...

The Great Smell Mystery: It's Me, Hi, I'm the Problem, It's Me! Have you ever walked into a room and thought, "Why does it smell like wet socks and desperation in here?" Only to have everyone in your family give you the same look—that mix of confusion, mild panic, and just a pinch of exasperation? Hi, I'm Ana, and I have an olfactory superpower. Some might call it a gift, but my husband and family just call me “The Smell Phantom.” It all started innocently enough. One fine morning, I declared, “Why does it smell like burnt popcorn and armpit in this house?” My husband, coffee mug in hand, stared blankly. "Nope. Smells normal to me." This was the beginning of what I now fondly (and frustratingly) refer to as "The Great Smell Mystery." Since then, my nose has led me down a rabbit hole of imaginary smells. Eau de Mystery Mint Chip Ice Cream wafting through the bedroom? Check. A sudden, inexplicable waft of “old boots in a swamp” in the...

My Journeys  Menopause isn’t just a solo journey—it’s one that touches families, friendships, and partnerships. I know this firsthand. While it’s brought me challenges, it’s also shown me the power of having someone by my side. Despite my struggles, my husband chose not to retreat in confusion—he stepped up, educated himself, and became my biggest supporter. This story isn’t just about my experience; it’s about how we navigated this transformative phase together. For Partners: How to Support a Menopausal Loved One Empower Yourself Through Education: Read resources like The Menopause Manifesto by Dr. Jen Gunter. Explore online communities such as the Menopause Support Network on Facebook. Listen Without Judgment: Be there. Sometimes we just need someone to validate our feelings without rushing to "fix" things. Offer Gentle Encouragement: Suggest self-care activities like yoga, walks, or even just a quiet cup...

  Menopause—it's one word that carries a whirlwind of emotions, both chaotic and transformational. For so long, the struggles surrounding it were locked away, often leaving women to navigate its challenges alone. It wasn’t until recent years that society has begun to shine a light on this natural yet complex phase of life. My own experience with menopause was a wild journey, but what makes it even more poignant is reflecting on my mom’s experience. She went through menopause at a time when there were no open conversations, no accessible resources, and certainly no Pinterest boards offering guidance or support. Looking back, my mom didn’t even realize what was happening to her. All she knew was that she often felt "off." She struggled with bouts of anger and irritability, mood swings that left us walking on eggshells, and an emotional weight she couldn’t put into words. I now recognize that she was dealing with the mental and physical toll of menopause without a clue a...