I used to be very active but now I feel quite lethargic. I don't feel like working and I'm finding it difficult to get up in the morning. I used to get up early everyday, normally by 5am, to do my meditation. Why am I feeling like this?

The hormonal changes during the menopause put tremendous strain on the body and this often leads to fatigue.

It is very important to look after yourself well at this time, and to make sure that your nutritional needs are being met.

Make sure that you are eating a good, varied diet with plenty of fresh foods and lots of water - dehydration can cause fatigue, and if you are getting hot flushes then it's doubly important to keep drinking!).

Rest and relaxation are vital and I know it can be very difficult if you lead a busy life but do make 30 minutes a day your me-time - this can reduce symptoms very quickly!  

These symptoms can also be caused by other factors such as low iron or low thyroid so it would be a good idea to ask your doctor to test for these just to rule them out.

Eileen Durward