Menopause Is Not the End—It’s a Powerful New Beginning
Menopause is often painted as a time of loss—loss of youth, fertility, and energy. You no longer have your period which in itself is a huge change but is it really a negative thing? You’re no longer the person you used to be - but consider how you now have the chance to reinvent yourself and potentially live your best life yet. You’re not losing your mind in menopause, you’re getting a brand new one! You’re not the person you used to be ….but ask yourself, do you really still want to be her? She’s lived and had her amazing time, now it’s a new time for her - and that’s exciting!!
Menopause is about looking forwards not backwards because you’re not going that way.
What if we reframed this narrative?
Instead of seeing menopause as an ending, let’s consider and embrace it as a powerful new beginning. This stage of life is an opportunity to shift your mindset, take control of your hormone health, and make lifestyle changes that allow you to thrive and absolutely nail the rest of your life. Increase your healthspan, increase your lifespan and fulfil all the dreams you had. You have the ultimate power to pick and choose your new thoughts and to shift into a new reality.
The Japanese term for menopause is konenki and this is exactly the positive, forward looking approach that menopause deserves. It means ‘Renewal of energy’ or ‘Second spring’ , it’s positive, strong, exciting and full of hope and opens up a whole new future - a second opportunity at life.
Shifting the Menopause narrative
For generations, menopause has been associated with decline, discomfort, and limitations. It has such negative image and we all know negativity breeds negativity. However, with greater awareness and proactive self-care, menopause can be a liberating phase filled with confidence, wisdom, and personal growth. This is the time to redefine what it means to age and embrace this transition as a fresh start. It’s going to happen to us whether we like it or not so let’s consider how to approach it with curiosity, positivity and to be honest, pride because after all, this is our time and no one can take that away from us! Consider how it is ,in fact, a privilege to get older and that not everyone has that opportunity
We’ve looked after others and now it’s time to look after ourselves which is something that Oprah Winfrey recently highlighted…
““So many women I’ve talked to see menopause as an ending. I’ve discovered that this is your moment to reinvent yourself after years of focusing on the needs of everyone else.””
Understanding hormone health in Menopause
Hormones play a significant role in menopause, influencing everything from mood and metabolism to sleep and bone health. As oestrogen and progesterone levels decline, symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue may arise. But by understanding your hormone health, you can take proactive steps to maintain balance,feel your best and not give up.
Research has shown a direct link between a woman’s physical symptoms, her beliefs about menopause and her experience of the transition. It has been shown that an apprehensive woman has worse symptoms than a positive woman. If you choose to view menopause as a disease then you perceive yourself as being sick during that time. It’s important to see menopause as a phase leading to a new you rather than as a catastrophic phase.
Supporting hormone balance
Nourish your body: Eating a nutrient-dense diet helps support hormonal function. Don’t calorie count - nutrient count! Include healthy fats, lean proteins, simple low GI carbs and plenty of fiber to keep your body functioning optimally.
Manage stress: Chronic stress can and will exacerbate hormonal imbalances. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing techniques to help regulate cortisol levels. Your adrenal glands are exhausted - look after them by finding a way that works for you to keep your stress levels down.
Stay hydrated: Water supports digestion, metabolism, and overall hormonal balance. Aim to drink around 2L a day - try to find a good spring water brand that is full of important vitamins and minerals.
Consider natural supplements: Certain supplements, such as maca root, black cohosh, and ashwagandha, may help alleviate symptoms naturally. Not everything works for everyone so try different things - speak to your pharmacist.
Lifestyle choices to thrive in Menopause
Making small but intentional lifestyle adjustments can make a world of difference in how you experience menopause. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Prioritising movement
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.
Strength training: Helps maintain muscle mass and bone density and boosts your metabolism.
Cardio workouts: Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling support heart health and weight management. The great thing is that being outdoors increases your exposure to vitamin D which is vital for great health.
Yoga & Pilates: Improve flexibility, reduce stress, and enhance mental well-being. They’ll also introduce you to a whole new community - and quite probably many other women in menopause.
Eating for energy & vitality
A balanced diet can alleviate menopause symptoms and boost energy levels.
Increase Phytoestrogens: Foods like flaxseeds, soy, and lentils contain plant-based oestrogens that may help balance hormone levels.
Support gut health: Probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and fermented vegetables support digestion and immune function. Given the brain/gut axis and the fact that 70% of our immune system is based around the gut - this is absolutely vital.
Reduce sugar & processed foods: Excess sugar can lead to energy crashes and worsen mood swings. You need to aim for balanced blood sugar levels through out the day.
Prioritising sleep
Quality sleep is crucial for overall well-being, yet many women struggle with insomnia during menopause.
Create a relaxing night routine: Avoid screens before bed and unwind with a book or soothing music.
Regulate room temperature: A cool, dark environment helps prevent night sweats and improves sleep quality. 17 degrees is the optimal temperature for a good night’s sleep.
Practice mindfulness: Meditation or breathing exercises before bed can promote deeper, more restful sleep.
Cultivating mental & emotional well-being
Menopause is not just a physical transition; it also affects emotional health.
Practice gratitude: Shifting focus toward positivity can improve overall well-being.
Seek support: Joining a menopause support group or speaking with a coach can help you navigate this transition with confidence.
Embrace change: View menopause as an opportunity for reinvention rather than an obstacle. Try to stay positive and educating yourself about what is going on will definitely help this process.
The power of mindset in Menopause
One of the most transformative aspects of menopause is the shift in mindset. When you approach this phase with curiosity rather than fear, you unlock a world of possibilities. Many women find that menopause brings:
A Stronger Sense of Self: With age comes wisdom and a deeper understanding of personal values. You learn to say ‘no’, you learn to look out for yourself and you learn the power of you.
Renewed Freedom: With children grown and careers established, this is the perfect time to explore new passions and interests.
Increased Confidence: Many women report feeling more self-assured and empowered post-menopause. Your body has been through a massive recalibration and come through it for you and because of you. That’s something to be VERY proud of.
Embracing Menopause as a new beginning
Menopause is not an end—it’s a powerful transition into a new phase of life. It is a time to celebrate resilience, prioritise self-care, and redefine what aging means to you.
Don’t resist - embrace
Don’t hide - step into power
Don’t wilt - stand proud
Don’t shut down - go up a gear
Step into your power, prioritise what truly matters, and create a life that brings you joy and fulfillment. After all, menopause is the book end to puberty, it’s the beginning of something extraordinary….. so BE extraordinary!
If you are struggling with managing your Menopause, contact me to see how I can help.