Let’s talk about menopause. It is a natural part of our journey as women but can sometimes feel like it is the end and not a new beginning for us. It may be characterised by a range of physical and emotional symptoms, which vary in intensity for each of us. Some common symptoms may include:
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
- Weight Gain
- Thinning Hair
- Changes in Libido
- Dry skin
- Memory and concentration issues – “brain fog”
- Muscle and Joint pain
- Increased frequency of urination
- Heart palpitations
Not all of us experience all of these symptoms and for each of us the severity and duration of symptoms can vary. Some women are lucky enough not to experience many symptoms.
If you need help managing menopausal symptoms and emotional challenges, then let me share the techniques I use to support my clients:
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT aka Tapping)
Menopause is not just a physical transition it is also an emotional and psychological journey and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) may help to:
Reduce Stress – menopause can increase stress and anxiety. EFT can help to alleviate these emotional symptoms by switching off the stress response, lowering cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.
Emotional Balance – helps process and release emotions and help with mood swings.
Symptom Management – can be used to manage hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbances by addressing the emotional components associate with these symptoms.
Mindset work
Mindset plays a crucial part in how we experience the menopause. If we shift our perspective and cultivate a positive mindset we can navigate our way through menopause with greater resilience, not always easy I know!
Reframing Menopause – we need to remember this is a natural transition and can be a period of self-discovery, personal growth, and wisdom. I made a choice that I would navigate my way as easily and naturally as I could through the menopause as it was just another hormonal change and for the most part with the help of Kinesiology, nutrition, EFT, exercise, and meditation I have.
Self-Compassion – being compassionate with ourselves may help accept and embrace the changes in our bodies and boost our self-esteem. We can be so negative about the changes that are happening, and that inner critic can really be mean but we can turn down the volume.
Setting Goals – it can be useful to set goals and plan for post-menopausal life giving a sense of purpose and excitement and realise this is not the end but a new beginning.
Self-care practices
As we traverse our way through the menopause it is essential to nurture both our physical and emotional well-being.
Nutrition – eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables along with calcium-rich foods can support bone health and overall vitality. I have noticed a reduction in some of my symptoms when I cut out sugar and my clients tell me that cutting out alcohol helps with the hot flushes and night sweats.
Exercise – regular physical activity can alleviate symptoms, reduce stress and promote better sleep. But I get we don’t always want to do it especially if we are not happy with the shape of our body or are tired but it really does make a difference.
Meditation and Relaxation – mindfulness, meditation and breath work can help manage stress and improve emotional wellbeing. I meditate every night before going to bed and notice a difference in quality of sleep if I don’t.
Social support – connecting with friends, family or support groups can provide the emotional support we need whilst we transition through the menopause.
PHYSCIAL AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
Reflexology may help to:
Reduce Stress – as it encourages relaxation and promotes a sense of well-being helping manage physical and emotional symptoms.
Balance Hormones – during a session the endocrine system and reproductive reflexes are stimulated which helps reduce the severity of menopausal symptoms.
Symptom Management – may alleviate physical symptoms such as hot flushes, insomnia and headaches as we work the corresponding reflex points to promote relief and comfort.
Reiki helps to reduce stress, anxiety and emotional imbalance and creates a sense of calm. It may also improve sleep as it promotes relaxation. A one hour session of Reiki is equivalent to 4 hours of sleep!
Remember each of our journey’s are different so find and do what is best for you. If you need support then let’s have a chat click to book https://shorturl.at/asy37 or if you ready to book an appointment for Emotional Wellbeing, EFT, Reflexology or Reiki call me 07974 682525 or email hello@samanthahardwick.com to get booked in either online or in person at VitaliQi in Barnstaple. Would love to help you navigate your way through the menopause and beyond.