A Personal Awakening
For Bawani, midlife is not merely a transition—it's a profound moment of self-discovery, transformation, and empowerment. It all started when she began noticing physical changes and emotional shifts, prompting her to rethink how she approached health and wellness.
"This transition feels like a new chapter, one of transformation, self-discovery, and redefining my priorities," she shares. "I used to push through exhaustion, ignore subtle signs, and prioritize everything else before myself. Now, I am learning to listen to my body, embrace a holistic approach to well-being, and redefine my sense of purpose."
Midlife, for Bawani, is not about slowing down; it's about tuning into her body and taking control of her health in ways she hadn't before.
Navigating Menopause in the Workplace
The demands of professional life can often amplify the challenges of menopause. Bawani reflects,"There have been moments when fatigue or mood fluctuations made it harder to maintain the same level of energy and focus at work." However, she realized that setting healthier boundaries and advocating for more awareness at her workplace allowed her to regain a sense of control over both her career and her health.
"Menopause has reshaped my approach to work-life balance," Bawani continues.
"I've learned to be kinder to myself, take breaks when necessary, and create a supportive environment where conversations about menopause are welcomed."
She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and advocating for a work culture that understands and supports women's health needs.
Breaking the Myths of Midlife
Society often imposes unrealistic expectations on women as they age - equating beauty with youth and success with constant achievement. Bawani challenges this notion, stressing that midlife doesn't signal decline, but rather an opportunity for reinvention. "There's often pressure to ‘age gracefully,’ which can sometimes feel like an unspoken demand to defy aging altogether," she explains. Instead, she has chosen to focus on feeling strong, confident, and healthy on her own terms.
She believes that midlife is a time to redefine success - not by external standards, but by embracing strength, confidence, and self-discovery.
"Midlife is not a period of decline; it can be a time of reinvention and newfound purpose. We should be celebrating!"
Shifting Cultural Perceptions on Menopause
Menopause remains a topic shrouded in silence for many women. For Bawani, breaking this silence is key to normalizing the experience and challenging outdated perceptions. "When we talk about menopause openly—whether in workplaces, healthcare settings, or among friends and family—we normalize it and challenge outdated narratives," she says.
Bawani also sees media portrayals of menopause as an important tool in dismantling myths. "When menopause is portrayed honestly and positively, it helps women feel more confident in embracing this phase of life, without shame or fear."
Looking into the Past, Lessons for the Future
Reflecting on her earlier years, Bawani admits she didn't fully understand the importance of strength training and proper nutrition until later in life. "I focused more on cardio and staying in shape without fully understanding the importance of muscle mass and bone density for long-term health."
Now, she takes a more balanced approached to wellness. "It’s not just about looking good but about feeling strong and energized from within," she says. "If I could change anything, I would have started strength training earlier and been more proactive about my health. But it’s never too late to make positive changes."
Redefining Legacy, Personal Values & Managing Emotions
Midlife has also been a time for Bawani to reevaluate her legacy and what truly matters to her. "I now value authenticity, meaningful connections, and personal growth more than ever before."
She sees this phase as an opportunity to give back.
"I think more about how I can share knowledge, encourage other women going through the same journey, and support loved ones. Aging isn’t about fading away—it’s about stepping into another phase of life with confidence and purpose."
The emotional ups and downs of menopause can be overwhelming, but Bawani has learned to embrace them as part of the journey. "There have been moments of frustration, but I’ve come to view them as opportunities for growth."
Instead of resisting the changes, she now focuses on mindfulness and emotional balance. "I’ve learned to be kinder to myself during tough emotional moments and to seek joy in simple things. This has helped me shift my focus from what I’ve lost to what I can gain."
The Changing Definition of Intimacy
For Bawani, intimacy in midlife has evolved beyond physical connection to encompass emotional awareness and self-care. "As my body changes, so has my relationship with it. Intimacy is now about emotional awareness, meaningful connections, and self-care."
She found empowerment in redefining intimacy, noting that it's helped her embrace midlife as a time of growth rather than loss.
Building a Stronger Support System
Bawani highlights the importance of having a strong support system in navigating perimenopause and menopause. "Perimenopause is best navigated with community and understanding," she emphasizes. Whether through friends, healthcare professionals, or online communities, a support system makes all the difference.
"Navigating support starts with breaking the silence. I’ve learned that being honest about my experiences often opens the door for deeper conversations and mutual understanding. Surrounding myself with people who validate my journey has been invaluable."
A Second Adolescence?
Some women describe perimenopause as a second adolescence due to the hormonal changes and emotional shifts. Bawani agrees with this analogy, reflecting, "both stages involve intense hormonal fluctuations that impact mood, energy, and identity. Just like puberty, perimenopause brings about physical transformations that require adjustment and self-acceptance."
However, she points out a key difference: "Unlike adolescence, where everything feels new and uncertain, perimenopause comes with life experience and a stronger sense of self." While it's undoubtedly challenging, Bawani sees this phase as an opportunity for reinvention, embracing life with newfound wisdom.
Advocating for Better Menopause Care
Bawani advocates for better menopause care, especially in Asia, where there are significant gaps in awareness, symptom management, and emotional support.
"Healthcare providers should recognize that menopause affects not just physical health but also mental and emotional well-being."
She believes a holistic approach to menopause care - encompassing education, emotional support, and personalized treatment - is key to better supporting women through this transition.
Looking Forward: A Decade of Fulfillment
Rather than fearing the future, Bawani views midlife as an exciting new opportunity.
"Perimenopause has taught me the importance of listening to my body and prioritizing self-care. Moving forward, I want to cultivate deeper connections, explore creative passions, and continue learning."
Her outlook on aging is filled with optimism - she no longer see midlife as phase of decline. Instead, she feels that it is the time to live more authentically, free from societal expectations.
"This next chapter is about clarity, purpose, and a little adventure."
For Bawani, midlife isn't about fading away; it's about stepping forward with confidence, resilience, and a renewed sense of self. It's a beginning, not an end - filled with new possibilities, strength, and the freedom to live life on her own terms.
Join the HerStory Untold Community
Bawani's story is one of courage, resilience, and growth—a journey that reminds us that midlife is an opportunity for renewal, introspection, and deeper connection.
You are not alone.
Join her and Surety in redefining the menopause experience—one story, one lesson, one empowered woman at a time. It is where every voice is heard, every story matters, and together, we are rewriting the narrative of perimenopause, menopause and midlife!
Contact us at contact@suretysg.com to share your story!
Disclaimers: This article shares an individual’s journey and is not universal advice or experience. Content is for informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional for medical advice. We aim for accuracy but cannot guarantee it. Reliance on any information here is at your own risk. External links are not endorsed by us. This is not sponsored. Reader discretion is advised for topics on health c