Overwhelm, anxiety, foggy brain and a lack of motivation for life as you knew it – these are some of the symptoms women experience during menopause. Apart from consulting the doctor to balance the hormones, how else can you support yourself and those around you through this?

Surveys have shown that approximately one third of women have feelings of anxiety and almost a third felt depressed during menopause, so seeking help from someone who understands stress and anxiety can really help. There are many techniques available that can transform your experience of menopause such as EFT, CBT and hypnotherapy.

In addition, appreciate that this is a period of transition, so embrace it and work towards finding a new purpose for this second part of life. Change is uncomfortable, but it with is this adjustment that we are forced to grow and learn. Life might look different, but there are advantages to this new time too.

Did you know that stress is held in the body, in the fascia? So to de-stress you need to move, stretch and twist. Yoga is a brilliant way to build strength and flexibility, and the stretching and twisting enables the body to relieve stress (so not only will you feel physically better but you will feel emotionally calmer and less overwhelmed).

Change the way you eat and when you eat. New research shows that intermittent fasting can be hugely beneficial to balancing hormones, and reducing carbs, gluten and sugar, keeps blood sugars stable which in turn positively affects your mood.

Chaga mushroom coffee. Photo credit: Elysabeth Malenfant / Unsplash

And have you heard about mushrooms? The benefits can be extraordinary, and people are increasingly reporting big improvements. There are many varieties to choose from such as Cordyceps for immune health and hormone balance, Lion’s Mane for improved memory and concentration and Chaga mushrooms for anti-aging and anti-inflammatory, (a good blend taken daily can make a huge difference). Just make sure you know what you’re eating and don’t go foraging!

It really helps to seek out other women going through the same – (so you don’t think it’s just you, going mad!) and remember you are not alone. There are menopause cafes, informative talks, and groups – (remember the NCT and how you needed that support then?), it’s just as important through menopause to ‘find your tribe’ and meet some wonderful new friends in the process.

Photo credit: Priscilla du Preez / Unsplash

Work out how you want this next phase of life to look like. Sometimes this takes a bit of digging, and working with a life coach can help you clarify new goals and priorities. Working through your resentments, stresses and frustrations can make life for those around you more pleasant too!

Michele Poulton is a Life Coach and Healer based near Guildford and uses many different ways to help you though your life. She usually recommends starting with four sessions to achieve real change, but depending on your needs and issues improvements can be made in as little as a single session. Appointments are in Guildford, central London or online via Zoom.

Get in touch with Michele here.

The Muddy guide to managing your menopause

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