What changes occur in menopause?
The main changes come as a result in a drop in hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. There can be an equal increase in stress hormones such as cortisol. We can start to feel quite different to how we have been for a long time. The menopause affects different women in different ways but it can bring up anxiety, brain fog, temperature fluctuations, lack of energy.
How can yoga help?
Slow somatic yoga can switch us from the sympathetic nervous system (which keeps us on alert, fight/flight mode) to the parasympathetic nervous system, which is what calms and grounds us. We can do this by stimulating the vagus nerve which runs from the brain to the heart and gut and thereby calming our heart rate and digestion. We can also stretch the psoas muscle across the front of the hips in which a lot of tension and emotion can be held. So the slow yoga stretches help us release tension. They can also help our mind become more clear.
What helps us physically in menopause?
We need to learn that less is more – maybe we can’t keep the pace of life that we previously did or the same exercise regime. We need to look after our muscles and joints as the hormone levels change. Yoga will keep you flexible and supple in mind and body. Meditation and mindfulness will also help.
You’re very welcome to join my monthly somatic/hatha yoga class for menopause at Sensate Spa & Studios in Henleaze, Bristol if you’d like to try this approach in a calm, friendly space. You can also join me weekly online class on Tuesdays. https://sallydaviestherapy.co.uk/yoga/