The Wise Woman’s Guide to Menopause: Navigating Life in Our Mid-Forties to Mid-Fifties

As women, we experience numerous physical and emotional changes throughout our lives.  Especially during our mid-40s to mid-50s. It’s a time of transition, transformation, and wisdom. 

This time brings change that extends beyond the physical, touching every aspect of our being – from the body to the mind. This is why, in this guide, we decided to explore midlife’s complex nature and discover ways to thrive during this time of transformation.

Understanding Menopause

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, though it can happen earlier or later for some women. It’s defined as the point when you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. The years leading up to this point, known as perimenopause, can bring a variety of symptoms due to hormonal fluctuations. 

Common menopausal symptoms include:

1. Hot flashes and night sweats

2. Mood swings and irritability

3. Vaginal dryness and discomfort

4. Sleep disturbances

5. Weight gain and slowed metabolism

6. Thinning hair and dry skin

7. Loss of breast fullness

8. Bone loss

While these symptoms can be challenging, it’s important to remember that menopause is a natural part of ageing, not a medical condition. 

How to navigate life during mid-40s and mid-50s

1. Adjust our diet

As we progress from our mid-40s to mid-50s, our bodies undergo significant changes that require us to adjust our nutritional intake to maintain optimal health and well-being.

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage weight and provide essential nutrients. Foods high in phytoestrogens, such as soy products, flaxseeds, and legumes, also help balance hormones naturally.

Nature has provided us with a wealth of plants that can help balance hormones and alleviate menopausal symptoms. And modern technology has enabled us to administer herbal remedies like never before by taking advantage of slow release patches. Some popular herbs include:

– Black cohosh: Known for reducing hot flashes and night sweats

– Red clover: Rich in phytoestrogens, which may help balance hormones

– Dong quai: Often used to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce hot flashes

– Ginseng: Can help improve mood and energy levels

Certain supplements can also support your body during our bodies through menopause. For instance, evening primrose oil is known for its potential benefits for skin health, which can be particularly helpful as hormonal changes can lead to dryness and loss of elasticity. Our pure 1000mg formulation, can help maintain skin hydration and suppleness during menopause.

Some women find that adding a high-quality marine collagen supplement to their diet can support muscle health and recovery, especially when combined with regular exercise.

A revolutionary way to take all the necessary nutrients during menopause are health patches. For example, our Meno + is designed as an all-in-one method to address various challenging symptoms of menopause. 

2. Maintain a regular exercise regimen

Staying active is crucial during menopause. Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, strengthen bones, improve mood, and boost energy levels. Incorporating both cardio and strength training into your routine is ideal. Our very own Michelle is an advocate for powerlifting, as powerlifting has numerous benefits, including offsetting the decline of bone mineral density.

Keep in mind that exercise should be fun. Exercise that is pleasurable to you and that you can share with friends, such as hiking, tennis, and dancing, so you can stay connected and healthy.

3. Prioritise mental health

Stress can exacerbate menopausal symptoms, so finding effective ways to manage stress is essential. This might include practices like deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or pursuing hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation.

Many women experience sleep disturbances during menopause. Establishing a consistent sleep routine, creating a cool and comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding screens before bedtime can help improve sleep quality. 

For those who struggle with persistent sleep issues, natural sleep aids can be beneficial. Some women find relief with sleep patches that deliver a blend of herbal extracts and CBD, designed to support a good night’s sleep using natural ingredients.

Additionally, regular yoga practice can help reduce stress, improve flexibility, and alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. Meditation, whether practised alongside yoga or on its own, can be a powerful tool for managing stress and improving overall well-being during menopause.

Emotional support from friends, family, and peers who are experiencing or have experienced menopause can provide comfort and a sense of community. Sharing your feelings and symptoms with those close to you helps in understanding and reduces the feeling of isolation. Additionally, joining support groups, either in-person or online, can offer a safe space to discuss your experiences and gain insights from others who are going through similar changes.

Finally, professional support is equally crucial in managing menopause effectively. Regular consultations with healthcare providers, such as gynecologists or menopause specialists, can help tailor treatments to your specific needs, including hormone replacement therapy or alternative treatments. Remember, seeking support is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step towards maintaining your well-being during this transformative phase of life.

Embracing the Change

While menopause can be challenging, it’s also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. This transition marks the beginning of a new phase of life, one that can be filled with wisdom, confidence, and renewed purpose. By embracing natural approaches and alternative therapies, you can navigate this change with greater ease and comfort.

Remember, every woman’s experience of menopause is unique. What works for one person may not work for another, so it’s important to be patient and open to trying different approaches. Listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to consult with healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable about alternative therapies for menopause.

As you journey through this transition, celebrate the strength and resilience of your body. Menopause is not an ending, but a beginning – a time to prioritise your health, pursue your passions, and embrace the fullness of who you are as a woman.

By combining alternative therapies, natural supplements, and positive lifestyle changes, you can create a personalised approach to menopause that allows you to thrive. Whether it’s finding relief through herbal remedies, exploring the benefits of yoga and meditation, or trying innovative solutions like menopause patches or sleep aids, there are numerous ways to support your body and mind during this time.

Embrace this new chapter with an open heart and a willingness to explore what works best for you. Remember, menopause is a natural part of life’s journey, and with the right tools and mindset, it can be a time of empowerment, growth, and renewed vitality. Here’s to your health, happiness, and the exciting road ahead!