When it comes to societal discussions surrounding the menopause, you can be forgiven for thinking that we’re still in prehistoric times for how tight-lipped and dismissive people are about this perfectly natural, biological transition.
Marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years, embarrassingly hushed and worrisome discussions about the menopause are often shrouded in misconceptions and uncertainties; it is therefore crucial for us to dispel these myths and provide accurate information to empower women as they navigate this tricky and transformative phase of life.
I met the very wonderful Sue Yen Wan of Triple Goddess Yoga at the Om Yoga Show, and as a 36yr old mother of two, I understand that I am edging ever closer to the age bracket of 45-55yr old women that it affects. In reality, the menopause can happen earlier, either by happening naturally, or through being triggered by surgery to remove the ovaries via an oophorectomy, the uterus via hysterectomy, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, or for genetic reasons.
When I came across the Menopause Yoga Handbook sitting proudly on an exhibition stand amongst thousands of attendees, I was taken aback by how such a taboo was so cheerfully challenged and supported. Finally a non-judgemental, wholesome and holistic approach to managing and soothing the symptoms of the menopause!
What Is The Menopause?
The menopause is the time when a woman’s menstrual periods permanently cease due to a decline in estrogen production by the ovaries. This typically occurs between the ages of 45-55 yrs, but can happen earlier or later depending on various factors including genetics, smoking, and certain medical conditions.
Symptoms and Stages of Menopause
The menopausal transition, also known as perimenopause, can begin several years before the menopause and last for several years after. During this time, women may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Hot flushes: Sudden surges of heat, often accompanied by sweating, heart palpitations, and dizziness.
- Night sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep, often disrupting sleep patterns.
- Vaginal dryness: Reduced estrogen levels can lead to thinning and drying of vaginal tissues, causing discomfort during intercourse.
- Sleep disturbances: Hot flushes, night sweats, and hormonal fluctuations can disrupt sleep quality.
- Mood swings and irritability: Estrogen plays a role in regulating mood, and its decline can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and anxiety.
- Reduced libido: Changes in hormone levels can affect sexual desire and arousal.
Managing Menopausal Symptoms
While the menopause is a natural process, its symptoms can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to manage these symptoms and improve overall well-being.
- Lifestyle modifications: Taking regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and implementing stress-management techniques can help to alleviate symptoms and promote overall health.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRRT involves replacing the estrogen and progesterone that are naturally declining during menopause. It can effectively reduce hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
- Non-hormonal therapies: Non-hormonal medications, such as antidepressants and certain anticonvulsants, can be effective in managing hot flushes and mood swings.
- Complementary and alternative therapies: Acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and herbal supplements may help to manage certain symptoms, but more research is needed to confirm their efficacy.
Navigating The Menopause with Confidence
The menopause is a natural and significant life transition that can bring about changes in both physical and emotional wellbeing. By understanding the process, recognising the symptoms, and seeking appropriate treatment options, women can navigate this phase with confidence whilst maintaining a positive outlook. Open communication with healthcare providers is essential for individualised care and support.
What Is Menohacking?
If you’re looking for a more holistic approach to the menopause, then implementing practical menohacks to your daily routine can help women to manage menopause symptoms effectively. With simple and effective everyday yoga techniques that you can do from the comfort of your own home, The Monopause Yoga Handbook individually addresses all 36 menopause symptoms and includes 10 step-by-step sequences designed specifically to tackle them.
With exclusive links to pre-recorded videos, deeply effective relaxation techniques, 14 focus meditations for peace and calmness, 10 breathing exercises to soothe menopause symptoms and an abundance of yoga and lifestyle tips (or menohacks) whether you are a seasoned yogi or absolutely beginner. Every woman in her forties, and beyond, can benefit from the practical tips, wisdom and solace for pre, peri and post-menopausal stages for enhanced wellbeing away from the sole reliance of medicine.
Sue Yen Wan, the founder of Triple Goddess Yoga, has created an holistic and empowering wellness platform to cater to women who are experiencing the menopause. A senior trainer for several yoga alliances worldwide, her extensive knowledge has also been channeled into yoga courses to allow yoga teachers to assist students in the 36 Monopause Symptoms.
This book provides an holistic approach towards the symptoms of: allergies, anxiety, bloating, body odour, breast pain, brittle nails, burning tongue, depression, difficulty concentrating, digestive problems, dizziness, dry eyes, electric shock, fatigue, gum problems, hair loss, headaches, hot flushes, irregular heartbeat, irregular periods, irritability, itchy skin, joint, pain, loss of confidence loss of libido, memory lapses, mood swings, muscle tensions, night sweats, osteoporosis, panic disorders, stress incontinence, tingling extremities, vaginal dryness and weight gain which may also be beneficial to women of all ages.
Being mindful of what is to come, discussing life changes openly and honestly and understanding the choices available to you when dealing with symptoms puts the power in your hands to do what is best for you. By familiarising myself with Sue’s practice I feel that I can approach the next stage of my life with peace and clarity and am thankful for such extensive guidance upon this subject.
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