I just read an interesting article about how stress can lead to an inbalance in hormone levels which can potentially contribute to the occurrence of breast cancer.
It’s about how important it is that our estrogen and progesterone levels remain relatively balanced. With perimenopause, estrogen dominance can happen because of increases in cortisol levels. Cortisol levels rise when we are under major stress, like going through a divorce, the death of a loved one, job loss, you know, all the awful things that are common in midlife.
Cortisol production can contribute to a decrease in progesterone production and can therefore lead to estrogen dominance. Too much unopposed estrogen in your system can then lead to unusual cell growths known as cancer.
All of this information is not offered to stress you out even further, but to serve as a timely reminder of how essential it is to manage your own stress levels.
Now, I know in the midst of your worst midlife hell, you don’t need another thing to feel stressed out or worried about, but please respect your own need for peace, self-love and tranquility in these difficult times. You might consider some form of self-care like taking pleasant walks during the day, meditation and yoga.
Here’s a very simple, short practice to try. I’ve been doing this for the past few days and it has really been soothing to my soul. Go watch this 5 minute video and take the time to absorb its message completely. If you can’t take it in entirely the first time, then watch it again. I think it is MARVELOUS!!!!
