As women, our bodies go through so many changes throughout our lives. From periods and pregnancy to fluctuating hormones and menopause, it is quite the roller coaster. The key to navigating these changes is to embrace them rather than resist them. This, we know, is easier said than done. So, below we’ve rounded up a few tips and tricks to help you welcome change with open arms and feel super confident while doing it.
1. Celebrate the changes
Instead of moping about changes when they happen, celebrate them—literally! Got your period? Throw a period pajama party and invite a group of friends over. Did a hormonal pimple pop up overnight? Treat yourself to some clean skincare products that sync with your cycle. This celebration ritual will train your mind to look forward to changes instead of dreading them, which makes them easier and way more fun to experience.
2. Find the gift
Every unpleasant change your body goes through has a more pleasant flip side to it that is a gift. You just have to look for it. For example, if you get period cramps, instead of letting it ruin your day, see it as an excuse to reward yourself with a self-care session. Throw on a Heating Patch to soothe your cramps, watch a whole lot of Netflix, and thank your body for the reminder to slow down and take some time for yourself.
3. Gather an arsenal of products
When you’re well prepared, you feel like you can tackle any challenge. That’s why we recommend stocking up on personal care products that will be there for you when you need them. Your arsenal of goodies can include organic tampons (your period will never catch you off guard again), pimple patches (because a girl always needs to look her best), and a vegan skincare system that keeps your skin clear and moisturized throughout your cycle.
4. Practice positive affirmations
Whether it’s your period, hormonal breakouts, pregnancy, menopause, or any other change that comes along with being a woman, your body is going through a lot. Showing it some love and support with your words can be very empowering. Recite positive affirmations like “I feel amazing” and “I love my body and my body loves me” for an instant boost of confidence.
5. Express gratitude for your body
Feeling gratitude for your body is another way to show it some affection. Gratitude is also a great tool for shifting your mindset and energy into a positive place if the changes have caused you to fall into a funk. Write out a list of things you love and appreciate about your body and all the hard work it does to function correctly. Pro tip: Be specific with your gratitude list. The juicer the details you write down, the more yummy feelings of gratitude you will feel.
6. Ask for support
When your body is transforming, be it your monthly period or more major life changes like pregnancy, you don’t have to go through it alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for support. If you feel blue while on your period, for example, chat with a friend or a therapist. If you have a million questions or concerns about childbirth, schedule an appointment with your OB-GYN or reach out to friends who already have babies. Having a support system around you will make a big difference.
7. Treat yourself
Let’s be honest: changes of any kind are not easy to experience. You’re stretching yourself. You’re uncomfortable and not feeling your best. Treating yourself to something special is a fun way to keep your spirit high. Some ways to pamper yourself can include booking a massage at your local spa, buying a new dress that makes you feel amazing, or splurging on a clean skincare set that will make your skin glow in no time. As they say, if you look good, you feel good.