With World Menopause Day on Sunday 18th October, Georgina Donnelly of Spirit 19 Yoga and Wellness menopause yoga club has shared five simple ways to feel more empowered through menopause. Her advice focuses on small changes rather than expensive regimes or following every piece of advice on social media.
Move and eat well
Donnelly says exercise doesn't have to mean an expensive gym membership or punishing workouts. She credits discovering Yin Yoga and Reformer Pilates with making a real difference, with one helping her slow down and stretch, while the other builds strength. Her advice is to find something you enjoy, as you're far more likely to keep doing it.
On diet, she advises against spending a fortune on supplements and instead looking at what's on your plate. Adding more vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, protein and calcium-rich foods to everyday meals is a simple way to support your health, with small changes making a big difference.
Rest, ask and talk
Donnelly highlights the importance of making time for yourself, whether it's a walk, reading a book, a bath whilst listening to a podcast, or simply enjoying a cup of tea. Rest, she says, is self-care, not selfishness.
She also encourages women not to suffer in silence, advising them to talk to their GP about symptoms and go prepared with a list of symptoms and notes beforehand. She suggests asking for a blood test, including checking hormone levels, and stresses that understanding what's happening to your body can be incredibly empowering.
Social media and community
With so much menopause advice online, Donnelly warns it can quickly become overwhelming. She advises stepping away from the screen and talking to other women, family and friends, noting that many people have been through it or understand what you're experiencing. Sharing experiences and knowing you're not alone can make a huge difference.
Donnelly concludes that menopause is a new chapter that doesn't require an expensive wellness regime or a complete lifestyle overhaul. Her final advice is to move, eat well, rest, ask questions and talk, while remembering you don't have to navigate menopause alone. Georgina and other women will gather at Stretford Public Hall on Saturday 17th October for a day of exercise, conversation, wellbeing shopping and a silent wellness rave.
