Chrissy Sundt Dolan, is the master mind – and master body – behind renowned wellbeing brand, Silver Linings. Having recently turned 48 years old, Chrissy started noticing that her usual wellness hacks weren’t hitting in the same way. So Sundt set about experimenting on herself, and the results were fascinating…
“In the last 6-8 months I’ve really gone on a deep dive to read and learn more about perimenopause. I decided that in order to see what really works I had to experiment on myself so that I can create programmes that actually work for women in this stage of life. My new Midlife Movement Method is all about combining my expertise as a movement teacher with science-backed facts and my lived experience – all thrown together.
Here are five of the most effective changes I’ve made in the last year on my personal perimenopausal journey:
Strength Training:
As a trained Yoga, Pilates and Barre instructor with nearly 25 years of teaching experience it’s been interesting to work with a PT and really focus on strength. I’m lifting much heavier weights and taking muscles to fatigue. I’ve been doing this three times a week for the last four months and it’s been hard work, sometimes humbling and definitely effective in terms of creating a shift in body composition and mood!
Health Tracker:
I have fought this one for so long due to concerns about EMFs and thinking that I was naturally very attuned to my body. I finally gave in about 4 months ago (I’m using a whoop but there are lots of great options on the market) and I’m a complete convert. I can track my cycle, sleep, daily strain, recovery and log all of my workouts, supplements, mood and more. It gives me incredible insights and I think that in the shifting sands of perimenopause, it’s almost essential to start tracking and logging whether manually or with the help of a ‘gizmo’.
Less Alcohol:
Whilst I haven’t gone completely tee-total I now drink alcohol very infrequently. Initially this was because I was experiencing violent headaches the day after consuming just one or two glasses of the ‘wrong’ wine. The list of safe wines is now very short! The health tracker also confirmed all of my worst fears. Even one glass of wine or bubbles has a huge effect on my sleep and recovery. So whilst it’s occasionally socially a little challenging, I’m getting better and better at saying ‘no’ and prioritising my rest and recovery. The uptick in mood and focus is also a BIG win!
Protein & Fibre First:
One of the best nutrition hacks I’ve picked up on my perimenopausal health journey is to eat the protein and fibre first. Yes we all know we need more protein and fibre in the diet but eating it first is a game changer. The reason for this is because it helps your body handle carbs more calmly and efficiently in midlife with better blood sugar control, fewer cravings and steadier energy. You will likely find that eating less, and working out more no longer works. Changing that mindset may not be easy but shifting your focus to eating more protein and fibre will help both your body and mind in the long run.
Supplementation:
While I’m still on the fence when it comes to HRT for myself, I am very much a fan of supplementation. I did a HUGE series of blood tests overseen by an amazing specialist. The results were clear, I was depleted and needed supplements to really address the gaps and move towards thriving in my 40’s. If you are able to work with a medical professional to run some tests and create a personalised programme that’s great. Failing that, buying good quality Omega 3, Creatine and some whey protein is a good start!”
The post This Wellness Expert Shares The Small Changes She Made During Peri-Menopause That Made The Biggest Difference appeared first on Hip & Healthy.
