Winter Wellness: Soothing Peri/Menopausal Skin, Aches, and Stresses

#MotherhoodtoMenopause

Winter is a season of stillness and reflection, but for those of us navigating menopause, it can bring its own unique challenges. I know how the colder months can affect not just our skin but our joints, energy, and overall sense of balance. That’s why I want to share some of my favorite ways to nurture and care for yourself this season, simple rituals that have brought me comfort and ease during this transformative stage of life.

Nourishing Your Skin

Winters chill can leave skin feeling dry and sensitive, especially with all the hormonal changes we experience during menopause. One thing that has worked wonders for me is creating a soothing herbal-infused oil. I use sweet almond or jojoba oil as a base, adding dried calendula, chamomile, and rose petals. After letting the herbs steep in the oil for two weeks, I strain it and use it daily as a moisturizer. A few drops of lavender and vanilla essential oils make it even more calming. It’s such a gentle way to care for your skin, and the ritual of applying it is soothing in itself.

Warming Your Muscles and Joints

I know how winter aches can creep in, especially in the joints. When this happens, I reach for a warming ginger compress. Here’s how I do it: I grate fresh ginger and steep it in hot water for about 10 minutes, then add a teaspoon of olive oil. I soak a cloth in the mixture, wring it out, and place it on sore areas. The warmth and the gingers anti-inflammatory properties are so comforting, it feels like a gentle hug for your body.

Sipping Soothing Teas

Herbal teas are my go-to during the winter months. My favorite blend is lemon balm, chamomile, and linden flowers, with a pinch of nettle and oat straw for extra nourishment. On those particularly stressful days, I’ll add a sprinkle of passionflower or hops to the mix. Sitting down with a warm mug of this tea helps me feel grounded and connected to the present moment.

Replenishing Your Spirit

This time of life calls for us to go inward, and I find so much peace in simple rituals that nourish my spirit. One of my favorite ways to reset is with an herbal bath. I add Epsom salts, milk, dried lavender, and rose petals to the water and it’s like stepping into a warm, fragrant sanctuary. I light a candle, take a few deep breaths, and just let the water hold me. It’s such a beautiful way to honor and relax yourself. Make sure you have a wonderful towel. That’s important for adding that little bit of luxury.

Moving Gently with the Seasons

I’ve learned that movement doesn’t have to be strenuous to be effective. Even a gentle daily walk can make all the difference in how we feel, especially if you can practice something like shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. I love bundling up and taking a slow, mindful walk in a park or wooded area, just breathing in the fresh air and letting the natural world bring me a sense of peace.

When I come back inside, I treat myself to a cup of spiced turmeric milk. It’s so easy to make:

1 cup unsweetened milk (I like almond or oat)

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

A pinch of ground ginger and black pepper

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

I heat the milk gently, whisking in the spices, and sip it slowly. The warmth and anti-inflammatory properties are like a little bit of magic in a mug.

Remember, Winter is not a season to fight against, it’s a time to embrace and honor the changes happening within us. By slowing down, listening to what our bodies need, and leaning into these small rituals, we can move through this season with grace and ease. From my heart to yours, I hope these practices bring you comfort and joy.