Embracing Change and Prioritizing Self-Care at 40

There comes a time In every woman’s life, when you start to question who you are, what you mean to those around you, and your value. Finding strength, embracing change, embracing the beauty of growth, and realizing your worth is nearly impossible. I find myself listening to Podcasts, reading books, and trying to understand this new phase in life. Working on navigating the complexities of lost self-identity, embracing the struggle, and striving for personal transformation.

I turned 40 a few days ago and up until this past year, I felt 20. I saw myself as a young person, I couldn't wrap my head around the idea that I wasn't because I felt it. But this past year, looking in the mirror it all hit me. I'm exhausted and irritable, my pants don't fit, my skin is dry, my libido is shot and the list goes on.

Thanks to my doctor my rage has been tamed by 2 small pills. I know my family appreciates that. But the exhaustion was still there. It didn't matter the time of day, I could nap and in some cases, I had to. My body would not stay awake. And I know my family didn't appreciate a tired mom and wife 24/7. I tried supplements and caffeine with no results. I knew my hormones were off. They had been before. So I had a little bloodwork done, turns out I was right. I was low on testosterone. What I didn't expect was to also have a thyroid imbalance. Hypothyroidism.

It all made sense. Tiredness, dry skin, weight gain, my voice changes, depression, joint pain... like wow! Who freaking knew?! So now I've added another pill in the mix along with a testosterone pellet.

In addition to Hypothyroidism, low testosterone, and depression I also have low red blood cell count and enlarged red blood cells. Which adds to my daily exhaustion. Holy shit getting old SUCKS. But, now that I know what's wrong I can work on correcting and addressing any issues. With the help of Google and some amazing doctors, I can deep dive into why exactly the body does what it does and what it needs to be healthy.

In today's fast-paced, demanding world it is so easy to ignore the significance of self-care. However, based on what I am learning, prioritizing self-care is vital for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life.

So why is taking care of yourself crucial and how it can positively impact your overall well-being? Let's dive in.

Mental Health:

Taking time for yourself allows you to recharge and rejuvenate, reducing stress levels and preventing burnout. Engaging in activities that bring you joy, such as hobbies, meditation, or spending time with loved ones, can significantly improve your mental well-being. Prioritizing self-care enables you to better manage stress, anxiety, and depression, ultimately leading to increased happiness and a more positive outlook on life.

Physical Health:

One of the primary reasons to focus on self-care is its impact on your physical health. Engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep are essential components of self-care that help prevent illnesses, boost your immune system, and improve overall physical well-being. Seeing a doctor regularly and monitoring your hormones through blood draw. Neglecting these aspects can lead to fatigue, decreased productivity, and an increased risk of developing various health conditions.

Increased Productivity:

Contrary to popular belief, self-care is not selfish; in fact, it can enhance your productivity. When you are well-rested, mentally and physically energized, and emotionally balanced, you are more likely to perform better in all aspects of life. Taking regular breaks, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care rituals allows you to recharge your batteries, increase focus, and maintain a higher level of efficiency in your work and personal life.

Improved Relationships:

Self-care is not only beneficial for yourself but also for your relationships. When you prioritize your well-being, you are better equipped to nurture and maintain healthy relationships with others. By setting boundaries and recognizing your needs, you can communicate better, be more present, and offer genuine support to your loved ones. Moreover, your improved mental and emotional well-being will positively impact your ability to connect with others and foster deeper, more meaningful relationships.

Self-Worth and Self-Esteem:

Taking care of yourself is an empowering act that reinforces your self-worth and self-esteem. By valuing your needs and investing in self-care practices, you send a powerful message to yourself and others that you deserve to be treated with kindness and respect. This mindset can help boost your confidence, improve

Whether you are someone who prefers the Western medicine or the Eastern medicine approach, taking care of your body is crucial. Both approaches have their own merits and can be effective in different situations. Ultimately the decision is personal and should be made with what you find is best for your particular circumstances, beliefs, and the nature of your health condition. All that truly matters is that you remember that you deserve self-care at 40.