Menopause nutritionist tips: how to harness September energy for women over 40

There’s something magical about September. Even if you haven’t touched a school gate since the kids left home, it still feels like a reset. Fresh notebooks. New routines. That faint back-to-school smell in the air (half optimism, half stationery aisle). It's not just me, right?

While most people wait until January to “sort themselves out,” the real power move is now – in this gentle shift into autumn. Because let’s face it, summer often means more rosé, ice creams and late nights than structure, sleep, and sensible eating. No judgement. It’s what summer does best.

But September? September is your chance to get ahead before the chaos of mince pies and Christmas buffets comes crashing in. Especially in midlife, when your hormones are already running the show, this is the perfect moment to take back the wheel. If you’re a woman over 40 navigating perimenopause or menopause, this month is like a secret weapon for your energy, cravings and weight.

Why September works for your menopause reset (and why January doesn’t)

1. Less pressure. More clarity. January is dark, cold, skint, and everyone’s “new year, new you” plan seems to involve sad salads and guilt. Hardly inspiring.

September is softer. Kinder. The light is still warm, the pressure is off, and you’re not being bombarded with detox nonsense. Instead, you just feel ready to eat in a way that supports you – calmer hormones, steadier blood sugar, better sleep – without the drama.

2. Your brain loves a fresh start There’s actual science behind this. It’s called the “fresh start effect” – a psychological nudge that makes you feel like you’re wiping the slate clean. Think: “Old me was snacking on crisps at 10pm, new me preps protein snacks and actually sleeps.”

This little mental trick is why Mondays, birthdays, and September feel so motivating. In midlife, when you’re maybe feeling sideswiped by hot flush nights, brain fog, or stubborn weight, this reset button is gold.

3. It’s the calm before the chaos Right now, life feels manageable. The diary isn’t stuffed with Christmas parties, your immune system hasn’t been walloped by winter bugs, and you’re not trapped inside yet.

This is your window to get your sleep on track, tame the sugar rollercoaster, and strengthen your resilience before the real chaos begins. It’s like strapping yourself into the rollercoaster seat before it barrels down the track.

How a menopause nutritionist helps women over 40 make change stick

1. Pick one goal that actually matters Not a “should” goal (like eating kale every day). A goal that feels exciting and real. More energy. Less bloating. Cravings under control. Clothes that fit comfortably. Pick the one thing that would change your day-to-day.

2. Get clear on your why Do you want to stop that 3pm crash where you’d sell your soul for biscuits? Do you want to have the energy to go out in the evening instead of collapsing at 6? Or just feel calm around food again? Write it down. This becomes your anchor.

3. Create a quick win Don’t overthink it. Start small and stack the wins.

Try one of these this week:

• Add protein to your breakfast (game-changer for cravings)

• Drink more water (hot flushes and dehydration are a nightmare combo)

• Get outside in the morning (helps with mood, energy, and sleep hormones)

• Prep one meal in advance (future you will thank you)

Tiny steps, big momentum.

4. Ask for support Change is so much easier when someone’s got your back. Whether it’s a friend, a group, or a coach, having that check-in makes the difference between intentions and results.

And if you’re fed up with trying to figure this stuff out on your own, that’s where I come in.

Chelmsford menopause nutritionist tips for using September energy

As a menopause nutritionist based in Chelmsford, I work with women over 40 who want to feel more like themselves again – less tired, less bloated, more confident in their bodies. September is the perfect time to start, before the year gallops away.

If you’re ready to harness this September energy – without extremes, guilt, or faddy diets – my signature Midlife Method programme is designed for exactly this. Together, we’ll get your energy back, balance your hormones, and help you feel like yourself again.

Because what you might not understand right now (but, believe me, this is the truth) your midlife metabolism doesn’t need punishment. It needs strategy.

So – what’s your September reset going to be? I've got 2 suggestions for you right now:

1 - if you don't already have a copy of my book Everything They Told You About Menopause Weight Loss Is Wrong, grab that right now - https://amzn.to/3Z5X8WX

2 - if you know you need a new approach and you're ready to stop messing about with this, check out the different ways we can work together here and get yourself booked in. If you're not sure what you need, you can also book yourself in for a free mini consultation.