Menopause Be Kind To Yourself

By Carol Burbank, PhD, RMT

Carol Burbank, PhD

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Menopause Be Kind To Yourself

Menopause is not for wimps. A rollercoaster ride of emotions, physical challenges, and unpredictable discomforts, menopause takes a toll on daily life. Hormone supplements help many women, but “the change” is more than physiological. It is also a time when women move into new power and wisdom, finding new identities as old patterns shift and fade.

If we can let go of fear during the change, we will discover new strengths and tools to help us become even stronger. The key is getting the support we need in this natural but sometimes difficult journey.

“KINDness” is one of the most practical tools we can use to thrive through menopause and beyond. Use these four easy to remember steps to jumpstart your healthy transformation

K Knit together a community of supporters friends, sympathetic doctors and holistic healers (massage therapists, Reiki practitioners, coaches and other healers) who form a team to keep you healthy and balanced.

I Inspire yourself creatively. Find joyful, satisfying ways to stretch yourself, and you'll soon find you're relaxing into a new routine. Learn to make pottery, join that writing group you've been wondering about, get a new pet, take the vacation you've been dreaming about, expand your garden.

N Nutritionally support your health. Find out what helps you feel good and what triggers symptoms. Making sure you're eating enough protein is a good start. Then pay attention to your body. If you get a headache, a hot flash, or any other uncomfortable symptoms, it might be something you ate. Talk to a nutritionist if you need some guidance and help, but listen especially to yourself you're the one who knows the most about your needs.

D Don't assume anything. Your symptoms may not fit into any stereotype of menopause, so pay attention to yourself and your own body. For example, many women experience a stronger sex drive than ever before, and most women (studies show) don't feel any change in their passion. Everyone's body reacts differently, depending on genetics and experience.

Menopause is not a disease it's a normal rite of passage, unique for each woman. Parts of it can be hard, but some of it is fun and liberating. As you figure out your own response, find the things that help you, and remember be kind to yourself.