Michelle Hill, 53, sports and fitness writing specialist, Huntington Beach, CA

“I always said to myself that I will not have a hard time with menopause because I just don't have the time to deal with it. I've had hot flashes for quite awhile now and slight mood swings, which is totally unlike me. I'm usually constant and predictable.

I've managed the hot flashes by keeping my salt intake down as well as limiting hot sauce and red peppers. I exercise regularly and do strength and resistance training with cardio.

Upon waking every morning, I seem to have one big hot flash, which lasts for a few moments, then goes away. I just lie there until it passes, then I get up and splash cold water on my face, smile, and thank God I was allowed the privilege of waking up. Living in a thankful, positive attitude says a lot about how our days go.”

As told to Winnie Yu.