physical and mental

Since I turned 40, I decided it was time to get serious about a few things. Mostly health-related.

I found a new doctor. Got a checkup, complete with bloodwork. Got a mammogram. Found a dermatologist. Still need to find a gyno, especially because I think I'm heading into perimenopause. Healthcare provider options are not plentiful out here.

In addition to adopting a new workout routine (that includes lifting weights bc bone density), I wanted to find a way to exercise my brain. The simplest option was to take an educational course, and it was easy to decide what topic- plants. The best way to maintain enthusiasm is to pick a topic that already interests me, right? I looked into taking a class at the local community college, but that doesn't fit into my schedule and they don't really have any botany-related paths.

So I found a course on Coursera. Since I'm doing it for fun right now and not looking for any documentation, I opted to choose the free option. Online learning is not my favorite, but the flexibility works for me right now. And honestly, it's fascinating.

I'm taking steps to maintain both physical and mental health, but one of my main complaints right now is fatigue. According to my recent bloodwork, there's no major deficiencies or anemia, and I'm taking a few supplements to boost those borderline levels. But I'm still struggling to get through the day. It's not a fatigue like I've experienced before. I'm wondering if it's related to the hormone fluctuations. Exercise has improved it a bit, but it's still noticeable. It's to the point where if I can't get an afternoon nap, I need an afternoon coffee to get through the day. Which is probably not helping with my sleep quality. And the cycle continues. Once I get to the gyno I might get answers, but with my health history, I'm not optimistic.