🌀 Riding the Wave: How Period Fluctuations in Perimenopause Affect Your Energy

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: the way our periods shift during perimenopause—and how that affects everything from mood to motivation.

If you’ve been feeling a little off lately, you’re not alone. I just came out of a stretch where I felt low, emotional, and completely unmotivated. Nothing major had changed, but I couldn’t seem to shake it.

It finally made sense when my period came earlier than expected.

That’s exactly what it was.

This is perimenopause.

What’s Actually Going On with Your Cycle?

Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause—and it can last anywhere from 4 to 10 years. During this time, your estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fluctuate more unpredictably, and your cycle may no longer be the clockwork it once was.

You might notice:

• Shorter or longer cycles

• Heavier or lighter bleeding

• Skipped periods

• PMS symptoms that feel worse or start earlier

• Even “mini cycles” or spotting between periods

These changes can feel unsettling—but they’re normal.

Your Hormones Impact Your Energy

These hormonal ups and downs don’t just impact your cycle—they affect how you feel on every level.

When estrogen drops, you might feel:

• Tired and unmotivated

• Moody or anxious

• Less tolerant to stress

• Less powerful during workouts

• Like your “spark” is missing

When progesterone fluctuates, you might experience:

• Increased fatigue

• Weepiness

• Brain fog

• Trouble sleeping

Sound familiar?

You’re not imagining things. Your body is shifting—and energy dips are part of it.

My Recent Experience (Maybe You’ll Relate)

The past couple of weeks? They were rough. I was down, emotional, dragging. I had zero motivation. Honestly, I started to feel frustrated with myself.

Then—my period came. And not on its usual schedule.

That’s when it clicked. This wasn’t random. This was hormonal.

Understanding that made all the difference. It allowed me to stop blaming myself and start giving myself grace.

Track It to Understand It

One of the best tools in your perimenopause toolkit is a simple one: tracking.

Use a notebook, calendar, or free app like Clue, MyFLO, or Flo. Keep a daily log of:

• When your period starts and ends

• Your energy levels

• Mood or emotional changes

• Cravings or sleep disruptions

• Libido or bloating

• Workout performance

Over time, you’ll begin to see patterns—even if your cycle isn’t predictable. You’ll learn when your body needs extra rest, when you’re most productive, and when to ease off the pressure.

Work

With

Your Body—Not Against It

This isn’t about “powering through” or pretending everything’s fine.

You don’t need to be productive every single day.

You don’t need to force intense workouts when your body is asking for rest.

Instead, try:

✅ Planning strength training or high-output work during higher-energy weeks

✅ Building in more recovery, walking, and rest during your low-energy days

✅ Giving yourself permission to feel your feelings—without judgment

✅ Letting go of the all-or-nothing mindset (especially when it comes to motivation or fitness)

This approach respects your physiology. And it’s more sustainable in the long run.

You’re Not Broken—You’re Changing

If your periods are starting to vary and your energy feels unpredictable, you’re not losing your mind—and you’re definitely not alone.

This is perimenopause.

It’s a powerful, sometimes uncomfortable, natural transition. But the more we understand our bodies, the more we can support them.

👉 Track your cycle.

👉 Adjust your routines.

👉 Be gentle with yourself.

You’re not stuck—you’re evolving.

And I’m right here with you.

ReKindle with Kim

Menopause Coaching | Personal Training | Midlife Wellness