How Menopause Changed My Nervous System
One of the things I've found over the years is that supporting our nervous system is crucial, not only to help us through menopause but to help us stay healthy and happy afterwards too. I don't think many people realise just how important the nervous system is in helping us cope with everyday life.
I actually learnt this the hard way.
Before menopause, I was a very steady person. Very little rattled me. I rarely felt tearful, worried or stressed about things.
But when I started going through menopause, especially towards the end, my nervous system just seemed to crumble. Even though I was looking after myself really well, I was genuinely shocked by what was happening.
For me, one of the biggest symptoms was early morning nervousness and anxiety. I'd wake up and my stomach would go into spasm. It wasn't just emotional worry, it was a real physical pain. When it kept happening day after day, I realised I needed to do something extra to support myself.
I am lucky to work with very knowledgeable people who helped me through that time. But one thing I discovered was that my nervous system didn't simply bounce back once I'd reached post-menopause.
Even now, I still have to look after it every single day. If I don't, things can quickly become a little more overwhelming.
Sometimes it's the simplest things that catch me out. I can't find my car keys, I'm running late for work or there's a long queue at the supermarket, and I can literally feel myself tensing up.
Over time, I've learnt to recognise the signs that my nervous system is under pressure. One of the biggest clues is that my right eyelid starts to twitch. When that happens, I know it's time to take stock. What's going on in my life? Are there things I can let go of? Am I worrying about things that are completely outside my control?
I'm actually quite grateful that my body gives me these little messages. I just have to remember to listen.
So here are some of the ways I support my nervous system:
1. I make sure I'm getting enough magnesium
One of the most important things in my daily routine is magnesium.
I often call it ‘menopause's magical mineral’ because it supports so many different areas of health. Magnesium contributes to normal nervous system function and has many other important roles in the body too, including supporting normal muscle function and helping to reduce tiredness and fatigue.
There are lots of different forms of magnesium available, which can make choosing one quite confusing.
Personally, I usually take magnesium citrate because I find it suits me well and it's reasonably priced. I take 150mg twice a day, every day without fail.
If I'm going through a particularly stressful period or I'm not sleeping as well, I'll often switch to magnesium glycinate for a few weeks, as I find it works better for me during those times.
2. I support my body with B vitamins
I also take a vitamin B complex every day.
Although some multivitamins contain B vitamins, the amounts are often quite low, so I prefer taking a dedicated B complex.
B vitamins contribute to normal nervous system function, normal psychological function and normal energy-yielding metabolism, so I always take mine in the morning as part of my daily routine.
3. I have herbs I turn to when I need extra support
Even with good daily habits in place, life can sometimes become particularly busy or stressful.
I'm still working part-time, I love travelling and I always seem to have plenty going on. Occasionally everything just feels a little too much.
When that happens, especially if my eyelid starts twitching, I'll often add maca into my routine for a few weeks until I feel more like myself again.
I also never travel without my Passiflora Complex Relax Spray. Airports, travelling and busy days can all feel stressful at times, and I find a couple of sprays straight onto my tongue helps me feel calmer.
4. I prioritise hydration
Water is another thing I never overlook.
I've spoken about hydration many times before because I really notice the difference if I don't drink enough. When we're dehydrated, it places extra stress on the body and can leave us feeling more reactive and less able to cope with everyday challenges.
I always start my morning with a large glass of warm water. If I skip it because I fancy a cup of tea first, I honestly notice that my whole day doesn't seem to go as well.
Keeping well hydrated throughout the day is one of the simplest things I do to help support my nervous system.
5. I don't underestimate the basics
The basics really do matter.
Regular exercise, getting outside in the morning, spending time in nature, getting enough sleep, making time for relaxation or mindfulness, and enjoying time with family and friends all help support my wellbeing.
For me, gardening is one of the best ways to switch off. I can spend time in the garden and the rest of the world simply disappears for a while.
Looking after myself is an ongoing commitment
For me, post-menopause isn't about thinking, "That's it, I've done it."
I still have to be proactive with my health every day, and I know that's something I'll continue doing.
After my previous blog, quite a few women said I was "one of the lucky ones". But I don't think it's about luck. I think it's about building healthy habits and continuing to look after ourselves. That's certainly what I've found, and it's something many of the women I know in post-menopause have found too.
I'd love to hear from you. Have you found something that helps support your nervous system or helps you cope better with everyday life after menopause? Share your story in the comments. You never know, your experience might be exactly what another woman needs to hear.
Other articles that you may find helpful:
5 Things I Do in Post-Menopause to Feel Healthy, Happy and Strong at 71
10 things you need to know about post-menopause
10 self-care tips for perimenopause, menopause & post-menopause
