Life begins at forty: A woman's guide to thriving in a new decade

Life begins at forty: A woman's guide to thriving in a new decade (Photo: iStock) Ever felt like your body was rewriting its own rules? With a mix of physical sensations and emotional surprises, your forties can feel like a whirlwind. From sudden hot flashes that feel like your own personal summer to unexplained cravings, your body starts to speak a new language. Add to this fatigue, mood swings and a sense of unpredictability and it's clear: something transformative is happening. These signs may seem mysterious, but they're often the body's way of signalling the start of perimenopause - a natural transition that prepares women for menopause and a new phase of life. But what does it mean for you? A wonderful event that brought together women under, in and over forty, "what the forties", recently had it all for the works. Far from being a hormonal upheaval, perimenopause is an opportunity to re-evaluate your health and well-being. It's a time to reconnect with your body, adopt nutritious habits and embrace self-care like never before. While symptoms may test your patience, they also serve as a reminder to prioritise rest, balance and mindfulness amidst life's demands. With the right knowledge and support, this time can be more than manageable - it can be empowering, paving the way for a vibrant and resilient future. Perimenopause usually begins in the late thirties or early forties and can last for several years. It is characterised by fluctuating levels of oestrogen and progesterone, which can cause symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings and fatigue. Hormonal changes also affect metabolism, bone density and cardiovascular health. Because each woman's experience is unique, understanding these changes and how they affect the body is crucial to creating an effective health plan. Dr Rilwan Adan, a specialist in women's health, stresses the importance of regular check-ups during this phase. "Open communication with your doctor is key. Many symptoms, while natural, can be effectively managed with the right strategies," she says. Regular exercise plays an important role in counteracting the effects of hormonal changes. Cardiovascular activities such as walking, swimming or cycling improve heart health and help with weight management, which can be a challenge with a slowing metabolism. Mitchell Seaton, a business developer in the fitness industry, advocates strength training as a cornerstone of wellness. "Strength training is non-negotiable for maintaining muscle mass; it's not just about looking good - it's about long-term functionality and health," she says. Exercises such as yoga and pilates not only improve flexibility and balance but also promote stress reduction, which is crucial for emotional well-being during this time. As hormone levels change, so do dietary needs. A nutrient-rich diet can help ease perimenopausal symptoms and support overall health. Key areas of focus include: Calcium and vitamin D, are essential for strong and healthy bones, especially as the body ages. These essential nutrients are abundant in dairy products, green leafy vegetables and fortified foods. According to nutritionist Ashely Kibutha, a balanced diet also requires protein, healthy fats and fibre. Protein is key to maintaining muscle mass and can be found in lean meats, legumes, nuts and eggs. Healthy fats, particularly omega-3s found in fish, flaxseed and walnuts, are important for reducing inflammation and promoting heart health. Meanwhile, fibre from whole grains, fruits and vegetables aids digestion and helps to stabilise blood sugar levels - a critical factor for health as we age. Physical activity, a balanced diet and medical advice form the basis of a healthy transition into your forties. Equally important is prioritising mental health and self-care. Practices such as mindfulness meditation, connecting with supportive communities and setting realistic goals can help women maintain a positive outlook. Dr Catherine Masista says this is the age when women should become formidable and powerful. "If you are dealing with someone over the age of 45, they are done with being told 'do this, do that'. We live life on our own terms," she said in an earlier interview with Eve Magazine. She said she wants women in their 40s and beyond to understand that this is the peak of their lives, that this is their time. "Both groups need to be brought together and understand that life is just beginning," she says. "At this age, I feel more joyful. I embrace life in a very eager way. I feel more content and liberated, I'm living life on my terms and I don't have to fit into anyone's stereotype. I feel more purposeful and very confident - I have been there. I've done it. I trust my life skills," she says. Dr Masitsa said she hoped the business world would wake up to the potential of the prime-time woman. "We don't need a business community that says, 'Oh, you can't target 45-year-olds because they are set in their ways'. In Kenya today, we are the healthiest, we are the wealthiest, we are the most educated, and we are really active. We are influential," she says. Many women in the 45-70 age group are now empty nesters, meaning their children have left home. "I would challenge anyone who is business-minded to look at these people. They feel it's 'me time'. And they feel, 'If not now, when? So I'm willing to spend money on myself. You know what that means? We have disposable income. The kids are through school and out of the house. So there are a lot of possibilities. We are ready to adjust our lives," she said. "Everybody knows me. So if you're talking about women who are both larger than life and live life on their terms, doesn't that describe me? We will dress up in sexy lingerie. Just watch the show," she says in a promising tone. "We're ready to use feminine beauty products, we're ready to do housework, we're ready to do food delivery - we're ready to do all these things. Look at how many business opportunities I just mentioned. According to the Pew Research Center, women in their 30s are more likely to report feeling stressed about work-life balance than men of the same age. This external pressure can lead to a phenomenon often referred to as "milestone anxiety", where individuals feel compelled to achieve certain life goals by a certain age. A 2023 study published in the Journal of Women's Health also found that women in their thirties reported higher levels of stress and anxiety than younger women. We've all heard the whispers: the supposed biological clock ticking louder, the pressure to 'have it all' reaching a crescendo. But what really goes on in the minds of women as they reach this milestone? Confident and aggressive. Ready to go, sure of what they want in life and going for it. Shattering stereotypes, redefining what it means to be empowered and celebrating the incredible journey of life that unfolds with each passing year. In her Cedars Sinai article, "Health Advice to Thrive in Your 40s", Lisa Fields says: "Women in their 40s are a versatile bunch. They may be at the peak of their careers or taking time off to care for young children or ageing parents. Some women in their 40s seek reproductive help to get pregnant. Others go to the doctor for relief from hot flushes, which are a sign of perimenopause." "Women in their 40s may feel more confident than they did in their 20s. They may notice changes in their bodies as they age, and healthy lifestyle choices - such as a sensible diet and exercise - may seem more important now than in previous decades," she says. Your 40s can indeed be the new 20s. As Dr Masitsa says, this is the time to think about being in your prime and get busy balancing life with that sense of purpose.

Life begins at forty: A woman's guide to thriving in a new decade

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