Do you struggle to switch off at the end of the day?
Feel like your mind is constantly racing, even when you’re trying to relax?

In this episode, I share how something simple—doing a jigsaw—has become a powerful way for me to switch off, reduce stress, and bring myself back into the moment.

After years of not doing them, I recently found myself drawn back to jigsaws. What started as a bit of nostalgia quickly became something I now genuinely look forward to each day. But more importantly, it’s highlighted something we’re often missing in modern life: true mental rest.

We spend so much time:

• On our phones
• Thinking, planning, and problem-solving
• Moving from one task to the next

But we rarely give ourselves time to slow down and let our nervous system settle.

Why switching off matters (especially in menopause)

Chronic stress doesn’t just affect how we feel mentally—it has a real physical impact on the body.

When stress levels remain high:

• Cortisol (our stress hormone) increases
• Sleep can be disrupted
• Energy levels fluctuate
• Brain fog can worsen
• Blood sugar can become less stable

During perimenopause and menopause, this becomes even more important. As hormone levels change, the body relies more on other systems (like the adrenal glands), which are also responsible for managing stress.

This means that ongoing stress can make menopause symptoms feel worse.

The role of mindfulness (and why simple things work)

What I’ve found with doing a jigsaw is that it forces you to:

• Focus on one thing
• Block out distractions
• Be fully present

That’s essentially mindfulness—but without needing to sit still or “try to meditate”.

It’s simple, practical, and actually enjoyable.

And it doesn’t have to be a jigsaw.

Other options could include:

• Colouring
• Drawing or painting
• Knitting or crochet
• Any creative activity that brings you into the moment

The key is finding something that:

• Feels easy
• Requires focus
• Helps calm your nervous system

Why this matters for your health

Taking even a few minutes each day to slow down and switch off can:

• Reduce stress levels
• Support better sleep
• Improve focus and clarity
• Help manage menopause symptoms more effectively

It’s not about doing more—it’s about creating space to reset.

Let’s make it practical

What could you do this week to give yourself a few mindful minutes?

It doesn’t need to be complicated.
It just needs to be something you’ll actually do.

💬 Let me know

I’d love to hear from you—what are you going to try this week?

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Come and share what helps you switch off—or whether you’re a jigsaw person!

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