AKA: The F*ckoning, Murderpause, OVERies, Hellapause, Gland Finale, Private Summer, The Change, Ovarian Retirement, Reverse Puberty, The Flash, The Itch.
Menopause - In Chinese Medicine we call it : The Second Spring. Much nicer I think.
On average 45-60 year old women will have naturally declining reproductive hormones (less estrogen & progesterone which regulate menstruation).
However this can commence much earlier depending on genetics & lifestyle.
So... what's common:
hot flushes/flashes
night sweats
mood swings/irritability
sleep disturbances
cognitive changes (memory loss, brain fog, loss of thought, confusion)
dryness & itchiness
weak pelvic floor
weight gain (mid belly area)
irregular / absent menstrual cycle
heart palpitations
sore joints & muscles
anxiety/depression
low libdo
What an exciting time to be alive, huh!?
While the menopausal shift can not be 'cured' we can ease the suffering via lifestyle changes and support via acupuncture and herbs.
The key words here are lifestyle changes. Not just for ease of symptoms but for all round health as the aging process continues. Strong body, toned muscles, bone health, mental / emotional balance & general joyful engagement in life.
In Chinese Medicine we look at the four aspects of health like the legs of a chair.
diet
emotional/mental ease
sleep
exercise
Even if one of these legs is broken or imbalanced it can throw off the whole stability of the chair.
eat more protein & fiber, less sugar & smaller portion sizes
meditate, mindfulness & Japanese yoga
prioritize sleep, create a relaxing routine before bed (up to 10 hours is normal for women)
move more - weight bearing exercises,
Japanese yoga