By Dr. Kelly Austin, ND | April Blog | At My Prime
Have you ever found yourself staring at your wardrobe, wondering why that one swimsuit suddenly seems so unapproachable? Or perhaps you’ve noticed unexpected changes—feeling warmer than usual, becoming emotional over a heartfelt commercial, or even forgetting things that used to come naturally to you. And let’s not even get started on how our bodies seem to change in ways we never anticipated.
If this sounds familiar, I want to assure you: you’re not alone, and you’re certainly not imagining it—it’s your hormones.
As a naturopathic doctor, a mother, and someone who lives in a place where swimsuit season seems to last all year, I understand firsthand how these changes can feel. Life is busy—balancing work, family responsibilities, and personal wellness can be challenging.
So how do we embrace these shifts with confidence and grace? The key is a thoughtful combination of science, self-care, and a healthy dose of self-compassion. Let’s navigate this journey together with understanding and encouragement.
Redefining “Summer Body Ready”
If you have a body and it’s summer, congratulations—you have a summer body! But I understand that you want to feel your best—confident, comfortable, and at ease with yourself.
Being “summer body ready” isn’t about appearance—it’s about how you feel. It’s about energy, confidence, and enjoying the moment without self-doubt. And that confidence? It starts from within, including taking care of your health and managing hormonal balance.
Understanding the Role of Hormones
Your body’s natural hormones play a significant role in how you feel, from energy levels to mood fluctuations. Let’s take a closer look:
• Estrogen: When levels are low, you may notice dry skin, decreased energy, and lower patience. When levels are high, bloating and mood swings may become more noticeable.
• Progesterone: Often referred to as a calming hormone, it helps with relaxation. However, when levels drop, stress and irritability can increase.
• Cortisol: Known as the stress hormone, cortisol helps regulate energy and stress responses. When levels remain high, it can contribute to fatigue, weight retention, and feelings of burnout.
If you’re experiencing unexpected changes in mood, energy, or overall well-being, you’re not alone—and you’re certainly not imagining it. Hormonal shifts are a natural part of life, and the good news is that there are steps you can take to support balance and overall health.
Small Changes, Big Impact
You don’t need an extreme diet or rigorous regimen to feel your best. Instead, focus on small, sustainable changes:
• Prioritize protein: Especially in the morning, as it helps stabilize blood sugar and curb cravings.
• Incorporate strength training: Building muscle supports metabolism, mood, and overall well-being.
• Prioritize quality sleep: Rest is essential for hormone regulation, stress management, and energy levels.
• Consider targeted supplements: While not a one-size-fits-all solution, strategic supplementation can provide additional support for hormonal balance.
Confidence at Any Stage
Whether you feel your best in a swimsuit or prefer a more modest approach, you are worthy of feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin. True confidence isn’t about achieving an unrealistic ideal—it’s about embracing where you are and allowing yourself to be present in the moment.
Your body is not broken—it’s adapting. You’re not “crazy”—you’re experiencing natural changes.
And most importantly, you are not alone in this journey.
I’m here to help you navigate everything from PMS to perimenopause and beyond. Let’s support each other in prioritizing wellness from the inside out. You deserve to feel good in your skin.
With Love,
Dr. Kelly
