Why Do I Feel Like a Stranger in My Own Body? Exploring Emotional and Physical Changes in Perimenopause
Finding calm amidst the chaos: Journaling can help process emotions and reconnect with yourself during the transformative journey of perimenopause.
You're Not Alone
One day, you wake up and something feels... off. Your emotions are unpredictable, your body feels different, and your energy levels seem to have taken a permanent nosedive. “Why do I feel like a stranger in my own body?” you wonder. If this sounds familiar, you may be experiencing perimenopause—the transitional phase before menopause that ushers in profound hormonal changes.
This phase can feel unsettling, but it’s also an opportunity to better understand and care for yourself. Let’s explore why you might feel this way and what’s happening biologically and hormonally, and then dive into practical tips to help you navigate this new chapter.
Why Do I Feel So Emotional?
One of the hallmark experiences of perimenopause is an emotional rollercoaster. You might find yourself crying at commercials or feeling irritable for no apparent reason. These emotional shifts can be traced back to fluctuating levels of oestrogen and progesterone, hormones that play a critical role in mood regulation.
As oestrogen levels dip, the production of serotonin (the “feel-good” brain chemical) can decrease, leaving you more susceptible to mood swings, anxiety, or even depression. Additionally, the hormonal chaos can amplify your emotional sensitivity, making it harder to stay grounded.
Tips to Support Emotional Health:
Journaling: Writing down your thoughts can help process emotions and identify patterns.
Mindfulness Practices: Meditation or deep-breathing exercises can anchor you in the present and reduce stress.
Herbal Allies: Herbs like ashwagandha or Saffron may support mood regulation. Speak to a qualified naturopath before using herbal supplements.
Connection: Talking to loved ones or joining support groups can help you feel less isolated in your journey.
Why Am I Gaining Weight?
Another common concern during perimenopause is unexpected weight gain, particularly around the midsection. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining progesterone, combined with insulin resistance or a slowing metabolism, can contribute to these changes. Additionally, stress-induced cortisol spikes can prompt the body to store fat, especially when sleep is disrupted—a common issue in perimenopause.
Tips for Managing Weight:
Focus on Balanced Nutrition: Prioritise whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats to stabilise blood sugar levels.
Move Your Body: Incorporate resistance training to support muscle mass and metabolism, alongside gentle activities like yoga or walking.
Mind Your Stress: Lowering cortisol levels through mindfulness or spending time in nature can reduce fat storage triggers.
Get Support: Consider testing for insulin resistance or thyroid imbalances with a healthcare provider if weight gain feels unmanageable.
What’s Happening to My Energy Levels?
If you find yourself crashing by mid-afternoon or struggling to make it through the day, you’re not alone. The energy dips often experienced during perimenopause can stem from a combination of hormonal imbalances, poor sleep (often due to night sweats or anxiety), and changes in adrenal function. Your body is also using significant energy reserves to adapt to this major life change, leaving you feeling depleted.
Tips to Restore Energy:
Support Sleep: Magnesium, calming herbal teas, or a consistent bedtime routine can promote restful sleep.
Eat for Energy: Incorporate energy-stabilising snacks like nuts, seeds, or an apple with almond butter.
Nourish Your Adrenals: Adaptogens like rhodiola or holy basil may help support stress resilience and energy.
Listen to Your Body: Allow yourself to rest when needed; pushing through fatigue often backfires.
You are in Transition
Feeling like a stranger in your own body is deeply unsettling, but it’s also a sign that your body is undergoing a natural transition. This process may come with challenges, but it can also be a time of growth and rediscovery. You’re not broken; you’re evolving.
By understanding the biological and hormonal shifts behind these feelings, you can begin to approach perimenopause with more compassion for yourself. This is also an excellent time to lean into practices that nurture your emotional and physical wellbeing.
Managing Emotional and Physical Health: A Holistic Approach
As you navigate the changes of perimenopause, here are some holistic strategies to regain a sense of connection to your body and mind:
Prioritise Self-Care: Simple rituals, like taking a relaxing bath or spending 10 minutes journaling, can make a big difference.
Seek Guidance: Work with a naturopath or holistic practitioner to create a personalised plan for supporting hormonal balance.
Explore Mind-Body Practices: Yoga, tai chi, or even gentle stretching can help improve circulation, release tension, and stabilise energy.
Set Boundaries: Protect your time and energy by saying no to unnecessary commitments and yes to restorative activities.
A New Chapter of Empowerment
Although perimenopause can feel overwhelming, it’s also a chance to rebuild your relationship with your body and prioritise what truly matters. By addressing emotional and physical changes with kindness and intentionality, you can navigate this transition with greater ease and confidence.
If you’re ready to take control of your health and feel at home in your body again, consider working with a holistic practitioner to guide you through this transformative time.
Remember, you’re not alone, and this phase—though challenging—can lead to deeper self-awareness and empowerment.
See you soon,
