A Jigsaw: The Missing Piece to Switching Off (Stress Management in Menopause)

Do you struggle to switch off at the end of the day? Feel like your mind is constantly racing, even when you’re trying to relax?In this episode, I share how something simple—doing a jigsaw—has become a powerful way for me to switch off, reduce stress, and bring myself back into the moment.After years of not doing them, I recently found myself drawn back to jigsaws. What started as a bit of nostalgia quickly became something I now genuinely look forward to each day. But more importantly, it’s highlighted something we’re often missing in modern life: true mental rest.We spend so much time:On our phonesThinking, planning, and problem-solvingMoving from one task to the nextBut we rarely give ourselves time to slow down and let our nervous system settle.Why switching off matters (especially in menopause)Chronic stress doesn’t just affect how we feel mentally—it has a real physical impact on the body.When stress levels remain high:Cortisol (our stress hormone) increasesSleep can be disruptedEnergy levels fluctuateBrain fog can worsenBlood sugar can become less stableDuring perimenopause and menopause, this becomes even more important. As hormone levels change, the body relies more on other systems (like the adrenal glands), which are also responsible for managing stress.This means that ongoing stress can make menopause symptoms feel worse.The role of mindfulness (and why simple things work)What I’ve found with doing a jigsaw is that it forces you to:Focus on one thingBlock out distractionsBe fully presentThat’s essentially mindfulness—but without needing to sit still or “try to meditate”.It’s simple, practical, and actually enjoyable.And it doesn’t have to be a jigsaw.Other options could include:ColouringDrawing or paintingKnitting or crochetAny creative activity that brings you into the momentThe key is finding something that:Feels easyRequires focusHelps calm your nervous systemWhy this matters for your healthTaking even a few minutes each day to slow down and switch off can:Reduce stress levelsSupport better sleepImprove focus and clarityHelp manage menopause symptoms more effectivelyIt’s not about doing more—it’s about creating space to reset.Let’s make it practicalWhat could you do this week to give yourself a few mindful minutes?It doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be something you’ll actually do.💬 Let me knowI’d love to hear from you—what are you going to try this week?👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveandshinewomenswellness/ 👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThriveandshinewomenswellnessCome and share what helps you switch off—or whether you’re a jigsaw person!Send us Fan Mailwww.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.ukFree Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watchSupporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools.Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.