Are you approaching perimenopause or menopause? It's natural to feel a bit anxious about this phase as it can start as early as in your thirties and last for several years. (The average age of menopause is around 51.)
If you are experiencing unpleasant symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain, it can be frustrating to deal with them. But fret not, my lovely! There are many ways to manage these symptoms, and I suggest starting with some natural remedies like yoga, meditation, and breathwork.
These techniques have been proven to be highly effective and can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable. Yoga is a holistic practice that has been used for thousands of years to help balance the mind and body.
When it comes to balancing hormones, certain yoga poses are particularly helpful. For example, forward folds and inversions like downward dog can stimulate the thyroid gland, which plays a key role in hormone production. Seated twists can help massage the internal organs and stimulate the digestive system, which can be helpful for those experiencing bloating and constipation. Inversions like legs up against the wall can help improve circulation and reduce stress, which can be helpful for managing hot flashes and mood swings. And restorative poses like child’s pose and savasana can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Meditation is another practice that has been used for centuries to help calm the mind and reduce stress. Stress can be a major trigger for hormone imbalances, so managing stress through meditation can be incredibly helpful for managing perimenopause symptoms. There are many different types of meditation, but one simple technique is to focus on your breath. Sit in a comfortable position and close your eyes. Take deep, slow breaths and focus on the sensation of the breath moving in and out of your body. When your mind starts to wander, gently bring your attention back to your breath.
Breathwork is a practice that involves intentionally manipulating the breath to achieve certain effects. There are many different types of breathwork, but one simple technique is called alternate nostril breathing. Sit in a comfortable position and hold your right thumb over your right nostril. Inhale deeply through your left nostril, then hold your breath for a few seconds. Release your thumb and hold your left nostril closed with your ring finger. Exhale through your right nostril, then inhale through your right nostril. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then release your left nostril and exhale through it. Repeat this cycle for a few minutes. This practice can help regulate the body’s natural rhythms and promote hormonal balance.
Managing hormones naturally is an important aspect of women's health. Incorporating yoga, meditation, and breathwork into your routine can be a great way to support your body during this time of transition. If you're new to these practices, consider taking a class or working with a qualified instructor (me!) to get started.
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