Episode 16 | The Things You Need to Know About Perimenopausal Belly Fat | Pamela Windle
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Welcome to The Eleshia Lifestyle Podcast
Have you noticed changes in your body during perimenopause, particularly around your waist, and wondered why the things that used to work no longer seem to make a difference?
In this episode, Eleshia Harris is joined by women's health coach and hypnotherapist Pamela Windle for an honest, informative conversation about perimenopause, hormonal changes and the challenges women can experience during midlife.
Together, they explore how changes in hormones may relate to weight distribution, energy, sleep, stress and digestion. They also discuss the importance of understanding your body, moving in a way that supports your wellbeing and making small, sustainable lifestyle changes rather than feeling pressured to change everything at once.
Because looking after yourself is not just about how you look on the outside. It's about understanding what your body needs and giving yourself the care and attention you deserve.
In This Episode
In this conversation, Eleshia and Pamela explore:
Why women may notice changes in body shape and weight during perimenopause.
The role of oestrogen, progesterone and other hormones in women's health.
The relationship between hormonal changes, stress and sleep.
Why gut health and dietary fibre are important topics to understand.
How to approach movement and exercise in a way that feels supportive.
The importance of paying attention to everyday habits, including what we eat and the products we use.
Why women need better conversations and more understanding about their changing bodies.
How making one small change at a time can help you build healthier habits.
Quote of the Episode
“Start with just one thing.”
A simple reminder from this conversation: you don't need to make every change at once. Choose one manageable step, give yourself time to build the habit, and then decide what you want to work on next.
Episode Summary
Perimenopause is a stage of transition, and the changes that come with it can leave women wondering why their bodies feel different. For some, this includes changes in weight distribution, particularly around the middle, alongside changes in sleep, mood, energy and menstrual patterns.
Eleshia begins by sharing her own questions about weight gain and the importance of understanding what is happening in the female body. Pamela draws on her work in women's health to discuss hormonal shifts and the many lifestyle factors worth considering when women experience changes during midlife.
The conversation moves beyond the traditional idea that weight management is simply about eating less and moving more. They discuss sleep quality, stress, gut health, nutrition and maintaining muscle through appropriate movement. Eleshia and Pamela also reflect on how easily women can feel overwhelmed by conflicting information or try to force their bodies into routines that no longer feel right for them.
A key message throughout the episode is that women deserve to understand their bodies rather than feel ashamed of the changes they experience. Instead of chasing quick fixes or making drastic changes, the conversation encourages a more thoughtful approach: pay attention to your wellbeing, seek appropriate support when you need it, and start with one practical step.
This episode is an invitation to become more informed, compassionate and curious about your health during perimenopause and beyond.
⭐ You don't have to overhaul your lifestyle after listening. Use these ideas as a starting point and choose what feels most relevant to you.
1. Learn about your changing body
Take time to understand perimenopause and the changes that can happen during this stage. Notice patterns in your energy, sleep, mood, menstrual cycle and general wellbeing. If symptoms are affecting your quality of life, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.
2. Pay attention to your sleep
Think about your sleep routine and what might be interrupting your rest. Consider your evening habits, stress levels and whether you are giving yourself enough time to wind down. If sleep problems persist, seek professional advice rather than assuming you simply have to live with them.
3. Find ways to manage stress
Everyday responsibilities can add up, particularly when you are balancing work, family and caring commitments. Identify one source of avoidable stress and consider what you could change. Even a small adjustment to your routine may help you feel more supported.
4. Nourish your body
Reflect on the variety of foods you eat and whether you are including vegetables, fibre-rich foods, pulses, nuts and other foods you enjoy. Aim for balanced, sustainable habits rather than restrictive diets. Your individual needs may vary, so seek personalised advice if you have concerns about your nutrition.
5. Look after your gut health
Pamela and Eleshia discuss digestion, fibre, prebiotic foods and fermented foods. Consider how you might include a wider variety of fibre-rich foods in your meals, and pay attention to changes in your digestion. If you experience persistent or concerning symptoms, speak to a healthcare professional.
6. Move in a way that supports you
You don't have to punish yourself with intense workouts to take care of your body. Explore movement you enjoy and can sustain, whether that's walking, Pilates, strength training or another suitable activity. Build up gradually and choose an approach that works for your ability and circumstances.
7. Review your everyday environment
The conversation also raises awareness of the products and environmental exposures we encounter in daily life. Rather than feeling that you need to change everything, focus on practical choices you can reasonably make, such as reviewing the products you regularly use and following reliable guidance on safety.
8. Make one small change at a time
Choose one habit you would like to improve. Make it specific and realistic, and give yourself time to practise it before adding another. Small steps that fit your life are often easier to maintain than trying to change everything overnight.
🔑 Key Takeaways
Your body changes through different life stages. Understanding those changes can help you respond with greater confidence and self-compassion.
Perimenopause is about more than weight. Sleep, energy, mood, menstrual changes and overall wellbeing are also important.
Lifestyle factors deserve attention. Nutrition, movement, sleep and stress management are all worth considering as part of a broader approach to health.
There is no single routine that suits every woman. Find habits that work for your body, your needs and your life.
You don't need to do everything at once. Start with one realistic change and build from there.
You don't have to figure everything out alone. Seek reliable information and appropriate professional support when you need it.
🌿 Eleshia's Reflection
One of the things I love about conversations like this is the opportunity to ask questions, learn something new and open up discussions that women may not always feel comfortable having.
Our bodies change throughout our lives, but we are not always given the information or space to understand those changes. That can leave us feeling frustrated, confused or as though we are doing something wrong.
This conversation reminded me of the importance of listening to our bodies and taking our wellbeing seriously. We don't have to follow every new trend, try every diet or push ourselves harder just because something that worked before no longer feels right.
We can take a different approach. We can learn, ask questions, seek support and make small changes that fit our lives.
Most importantly, we can have these conversations openly and help other women feel less alone.
💬 Conversation Starters
Take a few moments to reflect on these questions:
Have you noticed changes in your body, energy or sleep during perimenopause or midlife?
What have you been told about weight management, and does that advice still feel helpful to you?
Which everyday habits support your wellbeing, and which might need a little attention?
Is there one small change you could make this week to take better care of yourself?
Who could you speak to or learn from if you wanted more support with your health?
You don't need to answer every question today. Start with the one that resonates most.
🔗 Helpful Resources & Related Episodes
Pamela Windle is a women's health coach and hypnotherapist who works with women on perimenopause, menopause and wellbeing.
You can find her through the channels mentioned in the episode:
Instagram: @pamelawindlehormonecoach
Facebook: Pamela Windle Hormones and Vitality
For health concerns or persistent symptoms, consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
Continue the Conversation: The Female Cycle and Learning to Live in Flow
If you enjoyed this episode, revisit the six-part series featuring Eleshia Harris and Mairi Taylor. The series explores the female cycle and how to better understand and work with the different phases of life.
Part 1: Harnessing the female cycle and learning to live in flow
Part 2: Learning to Love Your Menses
Part 3: Tuning into Your Venus Week
Part 4: Out Out with Ovulation
Part 5: Leaning into Your Luteal Phase
Part 6: Rock Your Menopause
Find these episodes in Latest Conversations on The Eleshia Lifestyle website.
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Continue Listening
Thank you for listening to The Eleshia Show.
If this conversation helped you understand perimenopause a little better, share it with a friend, family member or someone who might appreciate hearing it. These conversations matter, and sharing them can help more women feel informed and supported.
You can also rate and review the podcast on your preferred listening platform. Your feedback helps other listeners discover these conversations.
Remember: you deserve to look after yourself at every stage of life. Start with one small step, keep learning about your body and give yourself permission to seek the support you need.
Until next time, take care of yourself.
Eleshia Harris
The Eleshia Lifestyle Podcast
