As we embrace 2025, it’s the perfect time to reassess the habits that might be impacting your menopause journey. While forming new habits is important, breaking counterproductive ones can be equally powerful. Research shows that small habit changes can have a significant impact on managing menopause symptoms and overall wellbeing.
Behavioural science tells us that it’s often easier to break or replace an existing habit than to form entirely new ones. During menopause, certain habits that served us well in our 30s and 40s might actually be working against us now. Understanding this can help us make more effective changes.
The Old Habit: Running on empty, pushing through fatigue, and viewing rest as lazy.
Why Break It: Research shows that chronic stress and exhaustion can worsen menopause symptoms and impact hormone balance. The Australasian Menopause Society notes that adequate rest is crucial for managing symptoms and supporting overall health during menopause.
The Better Approach:
The Old Habit: Inconsistent bedtimes, late-night screen time, and irregular wake times.
Why Break It: Studies show that irregular sleep patterns can exacerbate hot flushes and mood changes during menopause. Consistent sleep schedules help regulate your body’s internal clock and hormone production.
The Better Approach:
The Old Habit: Dealing with stress only when it becomes overwhelming.
Why Break It: Chronic stress can intensify menopause symptoms and affect overall health. Proactive stress management is more effective than reactive approaches.
The Better Approach:
The Old Habit: Dismissing new symptoms or changes as “just part of getting older.”
Why Break It: Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing menopause symptoms effectively. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners emphasises the importance of proactive health management during menopause.
The Better Approach:
The Old Habit: All-or-nothing approach to exercise, irregular movement patterns.
Why Break It: Research shows that consistent, moderate exercise is more beneficial during menopause than sporadic intense workouts.
The Better Approach:
The Old Habit: Eating on autopilot, irregular meal times, skipping meals.
Why Break It: Studies indicate that regular eating patterns help stabilise blood sugar and manage weight changes during menopause.
The Better Approach:
Start Small
Research shows that trying to change too many habits at once often leads to failure. Instead:
Track Your Progress
Keep a simple record of:
Create Support Systems
When to Seek Professional Support
Consider speaking with a healthcare provider if:
Ready to discuss your menopause care needs in 2025 with our team of doctors, nurses, naturopaths and nutritionists? Book a consultation with one of our experienced healthcare providers today, the first consultation with a doctor is gap free bulk-billable which means no out of pocket cost to you. To do this, call 1300 415 414 or fill out our online contact form.
Alternatively, answer a few questions about your health and lifestyle to get a free report on your situation and discover if Emsee is the perfect match for you.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare provider before making significant lifestyle changes or if you have specific health concerns.