Menopause is one of those things we women know will arrive at some point when we are “older”. Some of us will hardly notice its arrival but, for others, it can bring a whole host of symptoms, some of which can be quite debilitating and ones which we do not necessarily always associate with menopause.
When these changes start to occur, it can be hard to know where to turn and what we can do about them. The changes are often coupled with feelings of denial, as we think we are not “old enough”, however, they can start happening in our mid-40s and perimenopause can last up to 10 years. There are around 37 symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flushes, disturbed sleep, anxiety, brain fog, joint pain and weight gain.
We may find that what worked in our 20s and 30s with regard to diet and exercise doesn’t always work in our 40s and 50s, so we need to make changes to help us as we transition into what is called in Ayurveda, our “second spring”.
Weight training becomes even more important to help prevent osteoporosis and counter the effects of declining oestrogen levels on our ability to build muscle. Our bodies can become more insulin sensitive, so we need to be aware of how we eat, and we may find some foods don’t agree with us anymore. Sleep can be hard to come by and, with all these changes occurring as our hormone levels fluctuate, we need to give ourselves time and space to understand and deal with the outcomes of these changes.
After going through quite a difficult time in perimenopause, I feel it is so important we talk more about this subject so that we can share and learn from each other in order to embrace this next stage of our lives.
In March, I will be launching the Fit2loveMidlife App, which will provide health, fitness and wellbeing support for women in all stages of menopause.
If you want to work with me or find out about the app, you can get in touch and read more at
