Hey there, fabulous ladies in your 40s and beyond! Let’s chat about something super important: sleep. Yes, you heard me right! Quality snooze time is like a secret weapon for feeling amazing, especially as we navigate through perimenopause and that belly fat now and beyond.
As a hypnotherapist specialising in helping women manage weight gain during this exciting (well I found it challenging!) phase of life, I can’t stress enough how vital sleep is for our well-being. It’s not just about catching Z’s; it’s about setting the stage for a healthier, happier you. I wish I had known that earlier.
Now, picture this: you’re snuggled up in bed, drifting off peacefully, and your body is doing some serious behind-the-scenes work. Adequate sleep doesn’t just help you wake up feeling refreshed; it also keeps those annoying cravings in check and gives your mood a much-needed boost. Plus, it’s like hitting the reset button on your stress levels, helping you tackle whatever life throws your way.
But here’s something important to know.. disrupted sleep patterns can throw a wrench in the works, leading to all sorts of not-so-fun stuff like weight gain, mood swings, and even health issues like diabetes and heart disease. Not good right?
So what’s the solution?
It all starts with creating a sleep routine that’s as cozy as your favourite pair of pyjamas. Think consistent bedtime, minimal screen time before lights out, and maybe even a sprinkle of lavender oil to send you off to dreamland.
Oh, and let’s not forget about everyone’s favourite topic: hormones. Turns out, getting enough shut-eye helps keep those hunger hormones in check, so you’re less likely to raid the fridge at midnight. Plus, it helps keep cortisol (aka the stress hormone) in check, which is a win-win for your waistline and your well-being.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But what about that glass of wine before bed?” Trust me, I get it. But here’s the deal: while a little vino might help you unwind, it can wreak havoc on your sleep quality. So maybe save it for a special occasion, okay?
And speaking of bedtime habits, let’s talk about those glowing screens. You know, the ones we’re all guilty of scrolling through before lights out? Turns out, they emit blue light that messes with our melatonin production, making it harder to drift off into dreamland. So maybe swap that late-night TikTok session for a good book instead.
Bottom line? Prioritising sleep isn’t just about getting your beauty rest (although that’s definitely a perk!). It’s about taking care of yourself from the inside out, so you can feel your best at every age.
So, here’s to catching those Z’s like a boss and waking up ready to conquer the day.
Want a little help to settle down to sleep each night ?– Listen to my free relaxation download each night when it’s time to go to sleep each night.
See you soon. Bonnie xxx
