Growing up, my mother's generation never talked about menopause. It was always presented as something you just had to get through or it possibly felt uncomfortable to share. There is no guidebook for how to transition into this next phase, and society often tells us to hold onto our youth instead of embracing the changes.
Although it may be seen as a taboo subject, I'm willing to share my story to help others on their journey.
At 49, I've been told that I'm "too young" for menopause, but did you know that perimenopause symptoms can start as early as your late 30s?
As I approach this next stage of my life, I can't help but wonder why there isn't more support and community around this topic. We try to balance our thoughts between feeling vital and mourning the shifts that are occurring. However, they often skip over how menopause can affect our minds, bodies, and spirits. Suddenly, we're navigating through life without a safety net.
Here are a few things I've learned along the way:
Each woman experiences menopause at different ages and degrees. Those who haven't had children may enter menopause earlier than those who have, as our cycles never paused during pregnancy. Therefore, some of us may enter this next phase earlier than the "average" age.
Alternative therapies can help ease menopause symptoms. Acupuncture and fish oil supplements helped me with hip/sciatica pain caused by estrogen drops that act like cushions to our joints. Acupuncture can also improve mood, sleep, and overall wellbeing, while fish oil capsules help with inflammation and joint mobility.
Black Cohosh can offer relief for some when it comes to hot flashes. Hot flashes tend to shift as estrogen levels begin to drop. A small fan is KEY! :)
Practitioners like Jennifer Harington and Eileen Scullion offer natural guidance and homeopathy for those seeking alternative options to ease menopause symptoms.
Both practitioners offer consults via Zoom.
Both are compassionate about women's health!
Collagen powder, vitamin A and vitamin C can help maintain collagen formation, and ease dry, sensitive skin or acne caused by hormone shifts.
Menopause is the ultimate initiation that forces us to realize our completeness. It's an opening and an energetic shift that awakens us to find our own voice and courage to speak our truth. Life becomes more precious, and time becomes valuable.
Ultimately, menopause is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of women. By embracing this transition with openness and curiosity, we can emerge stronger, wiser, and more empowered than ever before.
Please reach out with any questions. I offer skin solutions to individual concerns that can support your journey. I am SUPER passionate about helping each of us feel our very best.