I’m Tired AF

No matter how much sleep I get, I wake up with a sense of fatigue that is hard to shake. Some days feel like a Blue Monday. I’ve tried a Tempurpedic mattress topper, a Belly Sleep pillow, and mint tea with little success.

I am tired.

I went online to see if it was only me who felt I had stayed up for three days. And you know what? There’s a name for what I’m experiencing.

The Fatigued 40s

What? So, my mentally and physically drained state of being is not just my never-ending to-do list or the break-neck pivots necessary for managing my work, motherhood and relationship daily?

Fatigued 40s is a thing. According to doctors, women in their 40s and 50s are prone to fatigue trying to juggle busy schedules and wonky hormones and built-up sleep debt from all the years of caring for others’ needs.

I’ve got to do something about this worn-out feeling because I’ve got stuff to do.

Tackling Fatigue Like a Champ

I’ve committed to an updated regimen with a few new activities to help me beat the fatigued 40s.

• Practice a “self-care Sunday” routine of self-love to begin each week, including listening to soothing music, a leisurely walk, getting a manicure, or simply doing nothing at all
• Drink 3 liters of water a day
• Establish a bedtime routine:
  • In bed and lights out by 10 p.m.
  • Place phone out of reach
  • A weighted blanket
  • Listen to soothing ocean waves
  • Eliminate nightcaps
  • Wear a good eye mask
• Invest in quality sheets
• Do at least 20 minutes of weight training exercises daily
• Practice yoga to brighten my mood
• Make time for more physical intimacy
• Reduce sugar intake
• Write, then write some more