Hi, ​,  

I’ve been doing a lot of reading lately about relationships, and how women can make sure they are getting what they need from theirs.

Did you know that women who hug their partners before a stressful event have lower cortisol levels and reduced stress responses both during and after that stressful event? Cortisol is that nasty stress hormone that plays a role in weight gain, fatigue, and a whole slew of unhealthy outcomes. So, while it drives me crazy that my hubby leaves his dirty clothes on the floor next to the hamper, I still hug him every day, multiple times a day. It lowers my stress (and I suspect his, too) and has the added benefit of being a simple, free way of strengthening our relationship. Don’t have a partner to hug? Hugging a friend or a pet has the same benefit!

The other intriguing article I read is from a marriage therapist on what she sees from women in their 40’s. She says she often counsels women who chose a stable, dependable partner, then went the typical route of raising kids with that partner. Once the kids are grown and out of the house, she notes that the stable, dependable partner is doing what they normally do, but the woman often feels bored. It becomes a source of friction as the woman tries to figure out what she wants. If that describes you, she recommends being open and honest with your partner, and making sure that you cultivate friends, hobbies, new skills, and maybe even go back to school or change careers!

Reducing your stress and recognizing that life changes can impact your emotional well-being are both important, especially if you want to fully enjoy all that life has to offer after your last period. Looping your partner can give you even better outcomes!

I'm off to hug my dependable, stable guy!

~Vanessa

Have your hormones work to keep you healthy

Your hormones don't have to impact you negatively. There are ways to make them work for you! Find out how in this week's read.

Ginger

If you're dealing with allergies, hot flashes, or night sweats, try ginger! This spice is a powerhouse to help with many of the symptoms women might face in peri/menopause. Ginger can help improve allergies, aid in blood sugar balance, promote brain protection and cardiovascular support, and even help relieve nausea. Many women have used it to help with hot flashes and night sweats, too! The key is to use fresh ginger, and use it right away, to get all of the benefits. There are many ways you can add ginger to your diet, including adding it to a smoothie, making homemade ginger ale or herbal honey, adding it to a soup, and enjoying a cup of lemon ginger tea.