Menopause - Embracing the Change
Yoga practices provide support during challenging and changing times. The benefits that yoga brings subtly filter through into all aspects of life, enhancing and maintaining physical and emotional balance. It is this ability that yoga has to help maintain balance and induce a state of equilibrium that becomes invaluable during times of change.
During perimenopause the balance of hormones shifts as this happens it is not uncommon for symptoms including hot flushes, headaches, brain fog, irritability and depression to be experienced. Scientific studies reveal that not all women view menopause as a difficult time. Cross cultural comparisons reveal that there are corners of the globe where menopause is viewed as a positive experience. When it is viewed in a positive light less adverse symptoms are reported. Many indigenous cultures embrace the changes that occur as the body transitions from menstruation to menopause. In some cultures menopause is viewed as a natural transition that occurs as the body ages, growing old is seen as a blessing and the elderly become highly respected members of the community.
Yoga, meditation and pranayama are also at the forefront of research, revealing that these practices have a positive impact on both body and mind. By increasing positive connections within the brain and activating the relaxation response the benefits experienced could provide tools to help view this time of change in a positive light. Yoga balances the endocrine system and enhances those “feel good” hormones, it can calm a restless mind and aid sleep, reduce stress and anxiety and improves self-esteem. Developing a regular yoga practice is easy to do, postures and techniques included should be achievable and performed safely, so that the body is never pushed to the point of discomfort. The benefits that yoga brings could help to support practitioners as they embrace the changes that they are experiencing whilst moving into a new phase of life.
When life feels overwhelming rolling out your yoga mat and practicing for just fifteen minutes might be all that is needed to reset body and mind and embrace the day with a positive outlook. Yoga provides a holistic therapy that brings so many benefits, it is cost effective, drug free and can be practiced by everyone.
Please remember to talk to a medical practitioner if symptoms appear worrying or unusual.
This blog article was written by Sue Fuller creator of the Yoga 2 Hear range of audio yoga classes, meditation teacher training and yoga teacher training courses.
