The holidays are here! Time for festive gatherings, glittery outfits, and enough snacks to make a dietitian cry.
But if you’re navigating menopause, this season can feel less like Joy to the World and more like Silent Night, Sweaty Night. Between hot flashes, mood swings, and the overall chaos of life, surviving the holidays might seem like a holiday miracle.
Fear not, because with a little humor (and maybe a fan in your purse), you can get through this season with your sanity—and sense of humor—intact.
1. Take a Nap, or Two… or Five
The holidays demand energy, and you’re running on a tank that menopause drained faster than your family polished off the Thanksgiving pie. Rest is your best friend right now. Need to “step away” during the party? Call it “restorative self-care.” Everyone will think you’re so zen while you’re snoozing in the guest bedroom.
• Pro tip: Throw a blanket over yourself and pretend to meditate. No one will question a “mindful moment.”
2. Hydrate Like You’re Training for a Marathon
You know what pairs poorly with hot flashes? Eggnog. And mulled wine. And caffeine. But hey, it’s the holidays—just chase every indulgence with a giant glass of water and pretend you’re balancing out the damage.
• Pro tip: Carry a reusable water bottle at all times. Bonus: It doubles as a weapon to fend off anyone who suggests you’re “glowing” (you’re sweating).
3. Dress Like a Human Thermostat
The holiday party dress code says “sparkle,” but menopause says, “Can we just wear pajamas?” Solution? Layers, baby! That sequined sweater? Perfect for looking chic until your internal heatwave hits and you strip down to your tank top like a menopausal superhero.
• Pro tip: Keep a handheld fan in your clutch. Nothing says, “I’m fabulous” like fanning yourself while sipping champagne.
4. Say “No” Like It’s Your Superpower
Between hormonal mood swings and holiday stress, you don’t have time for nonsense—or too many commitments. If someone asks you to host another cookie exchange or lead the neighborhood caroling, feel free to respond with: “I would, but menopause said no.”
• Pro tip: Blame menopause for everything. Late to a party? Menopause. Forgot the gift? Menopause. Ate all the cookies? Menopause.
5. Sleep? Ha! Good Luck!
Ah, menopause and sleep: the toxic couple that can’t quit each other. The holidays don’t make it easier, with late-night parties and noisy relatives. Your best bet? Fake it ‘til you make it. Load up on soothing herbal teas, a cool mist humidifier, and a sleep mask that says, “Do not disturb unless it’s life or death.”
• Pro tip: If sleep fails, throw on sunglasses and pretend you’re channeling Hollywood glamour while yawning through breakfast.
6. Move Your Body, or Just Wiggle a Little
Exercise is good for you, they say. But it’s the holidays! If a full workout feels impossible, count hauling bags of gifts, chasing kids around, or dodging Aunt Carol’s stories about her cat as cardio. Even a short walk after dinner can keep you from merging permanently with the couch.
• Pro tip: Turn holiday chores into a workout. Vacuuming? That’s core strength. Decorating the tree? Upper body day. Doing the dishes? Calorie burn AND you’re everyone’s hero.
With warmth and appreciation,
Gwen and Tina
