Final Thoughts on Menopause: Moving Forward with Yoga
Dear SWY Family,
Thank you to everyone who reached out after my last email. Your stories and questions underscore the need for open, informed discussions about menopause. I'm committed to responding to each of you individually as quickly as possible.
Today, I want to clarify a few points and share additional resources that I believe can help us navigate these transformative years with greater understanding and support.
Personal Experience and Professional Advice
Firstly, it’s important to remember that whilst I share my personal journey and the benefits I've found through hormone therapy (HT), I am not a menopause expert. Menopause and its treatment are highly individual. If you're seeking advice, especially for specific medical issues, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who specialises in women's health. Think of it this way: you wouldn't ask a carpenter to fix a plumbing issue. Each professional has their expertise, and for medical issues, qualified healthcare providers are the go-to.
My HT Journey: A Detailed Look
When I sought help, my GP and I discussed my symptoms at length and explored various treatment options. This involved a series of tests to tailor the treatment specifically for my needs. It's worth noting that while my relief was almost immediate, especially with sleep, the process of balancing hormones can vary significantly from person to person.
For those curious about treatment during menstruation or before menopause fully sets in, the approaches can differ. Every woman's body is unique, and so treatment plans will vary. This reinforces the importance of finding a healthcare provider who listens, understands, and customises treatments based on individual needs.
Staying Within Scope
As a yoga teacher, my role is to guide you through your yoga practice to help reconnect with your body and enhance your well-being. However, for medical issues, especially something as complex as menopause, professionals in that field are your best resource. Yoga offers many benefits, but it is not a cure-all, and it's crucial to seek out specialised medical advice for health issues outside the scope of what yoga can provide.
Additional Resources
For those looking to understand more about menopause and hormone therapy, here are some further resources I've found incredibly helpful:
Dr. Jen Gunter, a gynaecologist, and author of The Menopause Manifesto, offers evidence-based insights into women's health. Her direct, no-nonsense style is informative and empowering.
Peter Attia, author of Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity, discusses women's health with a focus on scientifically sound solutions for aging.
Dr. Louise Newson, a menopause specialist, provides valuable medical insights through her podcast and social media platforms.
I still highly recommend the podcast I shared in my previous blog, as your first step—it's staggering.
Reflecting on Self-Care and Community Support
Menopause compels us to reevaluate all aspects of our health. It demands that we prioritise self-care like never before. From optimising our diet to enhancing our sleep routines and nurturing our mental health, this phase can be a profound opportunity for growth and self-awareness.
Lastly, if it seemed like I have all the answers from my previous email, I want to set the record straight—my journey is still unfolding, just like yours. Each day brings a new opportunity to understand and care for ourselves a little better. My intention is not to provide all the answers but to inspire you to seek out the information and resources that resonate with your unique situation. These emails are a starting point, a springboard to help you begin your own research and find the professionals or approaches that suit your unique needs. Remember, the best advocate for your health is you.
Thank you for being part of our community. You're not alone in this journey, and together, we can support each other through every phase of life.
Warmly,
Sadie x