The Lessons My Puppy Is Teaching Me in Midlife (That I Thought I Already Knew)
The Lessons My Puppy Is Teaching Me in Midlife (That I Thought I Already Knew)
For years, I’ve known the importance of being present, getting outside, and having a solid daily routine. I’ve read the studies, coached others on these very principles, written about it and intellectually understood their benefits.
I study the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda and the modern science of circadian rhythm - both of which are steeped in the importance of rhythms and routines as the foundation of health.
But, if I’m being honest, truly living them has been another story.
That is—until I got a puppy last month.
Suddenly, I had no choice but to show up differently. My new four-legged companion (Max) wasn’t interested in my to-do list, my overthinking, or my excuses.
He needed me to be here, now. He needed me to get outside, rain or shine. He needed consistency. And in showing up for him, I started showing up for myself, in ways I hadn’t before.
1. Being Present: The Lesson I Thought I Had Mastered
I’ve spent so much of my life in my head—planning, problem-solving, analyzing. But when I’m with Max, none of that matters. He doesn’t care about yesterday or tomorrow. He only knows now. And his presence pulls me back into my own.
I used to struggle with slowing down, with savouring small moments instead of constantly moving to the next task. But now, when I watch my dog’s joy over something as simple as a sunbeam on the snow or watching a duck in the water, I’m reminded that peace isn’t something to achieve—it’s something to notice.
2. More Time Outside in Midlife: My Circadian Rhythm’s Wake-Up Call
I knew that spending time outdoors—especially in the morning—was one of the best ways to reset my circadian rhythm. But knowing and doing are two different things.
Before Max, I’d often push aside morning sunlight for another hour behind my screen. But now, morning walks are non-negotiable. And I can’t ignore the difference it has made—not just in my sleep but in my energy, my mood, and how I feel in my body. I've also noticed a few unwanted pounds start to melt away easily.
As midlife women, our hormones are shifting, and our natural rhythms are more vulnerable than ever. The light we get during the day (or lack of it) directly impacts our sleep, metabolism, and ability to feel at home in ourselves.
3. The Power of Routine: Freedom in Structure
As a Vata mind (wind and space elements) I used to resist routine, fearing it would feel restrictive. But I’ve realized that routine doesn’t confine us—it creates stability so that the rest of life can flow more easily.
In Ayurveda, routines are the foundation of health and dinacharya (the daily routine) plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and promoting overall well-being. It emphasizes aligning daily activities with the natural rhythms of the day and the seasons to support optimal health (something that the science has 'proven' in recent years through the study of circadian rhythms).
Midlife is a time of immense transition—hormonally, emotionally, and even in our roles and identities. Without intentional routines, it’s easy to feel unmoored, scattered, and exhausted.
But my puppy thrives on predictability, and in building a routine that supports him, I’ve created one that also supports me.
Regular meals, movement, time outside, and rest—simple but profound anchors in a world that often feels chaotic.
Why This Matters So Much in Midlife
We often think that feeling off-balance in midlife is just about hormones, but it’s also about how we live.
Presence, light, and routine are not luxuries—they are biological necessities. And yet, they are often the first things to go when we get busy, overwhelmed, or stuck in autopilot.
This journey with Max has been a reminder that simple habits, practiced daily, are the foundation of deep, lasting well-being. And the best part? We don’t have to do it perfectly. We just have to start.
So, tell me—what small shift could you make today to bring more presence, nature, or structure into your life? I’d love to hear.
With warmth and resilience,
Sandra
Remember, the menopause journey isn’t just about hormones. It’s about creating balance across your entire body.
Ready to take control of your menopause journey?
I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out to learn more or book a free exploratory call. Together, we can design a plan that’s perfectly aligned with your needs and goals.
Sandra Spencer
Holistic Nutritionist, Ayurvedic Counsellor, Women's Wellness Advocate
