Reclaim Yourself This New Year
- Marie, Your Advocate
- Dec 27, 2024
- 4 min read
by Marie, Your Advocate
As I sit with my coffee this morning, I am alone with my thoughts, and I am feeling grateful.
Grateful for the love in my life, the connections I’ve built, the lessons I’ve learned, and the possibilities of a new year.
I just turned 56 a few days ago. For many women, midlife brings significant changes; some might even feel disconnected. There are hormonal shifts, new health questions, and moments of feeling unsure about what’s happening to our bodies. Some might also feel insecure about aging, worried that they are losing their attractiveness. It’s a lot to handle, especially when it feels like the answers aren’t always clear.
If you’ve felt that way, you’re not alone.
Why Sharing and Learning Matter
Did you know that sharing your struggles with others can make them easier to handle? Studies show that when women talk openly about what they’re going through, whether it’s with friends, family, or a community, they feel less stressed and more in control.
And it’s not just about connection. Understanding what’s happening to your body is just as important. But that’s easier said than done, right?
Research shows that most patients remember only 20-30% of what their doctor says during an appointment. Between time constraints and medical jargon, it’s no wonder we leave with more questions than answers.
This is why finding clear, trusted information matters so much. When you understand what’s happening, you’re empowered to make decisions that feel right for you.
Over 50: A New Beginning, not an Ending
Here’s the thing about being over 50 or even 40: it’s not the end of anything. It’s a turning point. It’s a chance to learn, grow, and focus on what really matters.
As we step into this New Year, think about these small but meaningful steps:
Talk It Out: Share what’s on your mind. Whether it’s with a friend, a loved one, or a group of like-minded women, connection makes a big difference.
Learn to Ask the Right Questions: Ask the questions you’ve held back. Seek clarity about your body and your options. Empower yourself by framing specific, open-ended questions like:
“What are the pros and cons of this treatment?”
“Are there alternative options?”
“How will this change affect my long-term health?”
Knowing what to ask helps you gain clarity and make informed decisions.
The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to understand and make choices for yourself.
Understand Your Body: Educate yourself about how hormonal changes, menopause, or aging-related shifts can impact your body. Knowing the root causes of symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or weight gain can empower you to seek targeted solutions.
Find Reliable Information: Look for advice you can trust. Not all health advice is created equal. Ensure the information you’re consuming is from credible, science-backed sources.
Build Confidence in Medical Conversation: Go into doctor visits prepared. Write down your symptoms, concerns, and any questions you want to ask. Challenging your doctor’s advice or asking for clarification is also okay.
Practice saying:
“I don’t understand. Can you explain that in simpler terms?”
“Can you provide more details about this diagnosis or treatment?”
Empowerment comes from confidence in understanding your options.
Advocate for a Specialist When Needed: If your concerns aren’t being addressed, it might be time to see a specialist, such as a gynecologist, endocrinologist, or nutritionist. Understanding which specialist to consult can save you time and provide deeper insights into your health.
We’re Stronger Together
Through the years, I’ve learned that we’re never truly alone in what we’re going through. So many of us are navigating similar challenges, and when we support each other, we all become stronger.
So, let’s make this New Year about connection, learning, and feeling like ourselves again. Being in my 50s isn’t an ending. It’s the start of something new and exciting.
Here’s to a year of health, happiness, and growth.
With love,
Marie
Sources for Studies:
Friendship and Heart Health:It Turns Out Friendship Can Improve Heart Health - But Only for Women The Daily Telegraph (2024). Friendship Improves Heart Health
Patient Memory Retention from Doctor Visits: Study on Patient Recall After Medical Appointments. Kessels, R. P. (2003). Patients' memory for medical information. Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, 96(5), 219–222.This research shows that patients typically remember only 20-30% of the information discussed with their doctor.
Empowerment Through Knowledge: Health Literacy and Patient Empowerment. Schulz, P. J., & Nakamoto, K. (2013). Health literacy and patient empowerment in health communication: The importance of knowledge and understanding. Patient Education and Counseling, 90(1), 5–10.This study explores how health knowledge directly impacts empowerment and decision-making.
Timeless Youth Empowerment™, led by Dr. Faruqi, supports women over 40 and 50 to take control of their health, vitality, and aging journey. We provide education in hormonal balance, anti-aging strategies, and symptom relief for menopause and midlife changes. We address symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and sleep issues, helping women regain energy, confidence, and a youthful glow by guiding women through midlife transitions with natural and medical solutions backed by science.
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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