In Perimenopause, Sometimes Less Is More

So many of us grew up believing that success comes from doing more—more workouts, more cardio, more dieting, more commitments. But during perimenopause, your body is shifting, and what worked in your 20s and 30s doesn’t always serve you now.

This is the season where less can actually mean more. Let’s look at how embracing “less” in key areas can bring you more strength, more energy, and more balance.

Less Time in the Gym → More Recovery and Results

You don’t need to grind for hours to make progress. In fact, too much exercise can backfire by increasing stress hormones. Short, focused strength workouts—3 to 4 times a week—support your hormones, preserve lean muscle, and keep your metabolism active. Less time, better outcomes.

Less Cardio → More Energy and Hormone Balance

Endless cardio often leaves women in perimenopause drained. Instead of long, punishing sessions, try short HIIT intervals or brisk outdoor walks. Less repetitive cardio, more intentional movement that energizes rather than exhausts.

Less Saying Yes → More Space for Yourself

Your energy is valuable. Learning to say “no” allows you to protect your time, reduce stress, and prioritize rest and joy. Less people-pleasing, more boundaries and presence.

Less Calorie Restriction → More Nourishment

Over-restricting food slows your metabolism, disrupts hormones, and makes fatigue worse. Instead, focus on nutrient-dense meals: protein for muscle and satiety, healthy fats for hormones, and fiber-rich carbs for blood sugar balance. Less restriction, more nourishment.

Less Stress → More Calm and Clarity

Chronic stress fuels hot flashes, weight gain, and sleep problems. Creating space for daily rituals—deep breathing, journaling, meditation, or simply taking a walk in nature—lowers cortisol and brings a sense of peace. Less stress, more calm.

Less Multitasking → More Focus

Hormone changes can make focus tricky. Constant multitasking only adds to overwhelm. Choosing one thing at a time allows your brain to work better and keeps you from feeling scattered. Less juggling, more clarity.

Less Late Nights → More Restorative Sleep

Your body needs deep, consistent sleep to reset hormones and support recovery. Cutting back on late-night scrolling or “just one more episode” can give you the restorative sleep your body craves. Less late nights, more energy.

Less Perfection → More Progress

Perimenopause isn’t about being perfect. It’s about consistency, grace, and listening to your body. Dropping the perfection mindset lets you celebrate small wins that add up to lasting change. Less pressure, more self-compassion.

✨ The truth is: perimenopause doesn’t require more of everything—it calls for more of what matters. When you let go of the constant push for more, you create space for balance, joy, strength, and renewal.

💡 At Rekindle with Kim, I help women shift into this season with confidence—because sometimes, doing less is the most powerful step you can take.