Menopause: Your Wise Woman Phase
Let me be honest – menopause gets a bad rap. Everyone talks about it like it’s some kind of disease you need to survive instead of a natural transition into a powerful phase of life. Yes, it comes with challenges, but it’s also the beginning of your wise woman years.
After working with hundreds of women through this transition, I’ve learned that menopause doesn’t have to be something you just endure. With the right support, it can actually be a time of renewal and deeper self-understanding.
What’s Really Happening in Your Body
In Ayurveda, menopause is primarily a time when the wind energy (Vata) in your body increases. This explains why you might feel more anxious, have trouble sleeping, or experience joint pain. But depending on your unique constitution, you might also see fire energy (Pitta) showing up as hot flashes, or earth energy (Kapha) contributing to weight gain.
The key is understanding that these changes aren’t random – they’re your body adjusting to a new phase of life. Instead of fighting against these changes, we work with them.
Hot flashes and night sweats – These are usually signs that your fire energy is getting stirred up. We can calm this with cooling herbs and practices.
Vaginal dryness – This is often about tissues needing more nourishment and moisture. There are gentle, natural ways to address this.
Mood changes and anxiety – The hormonal fluctuations can make you feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster. This is where herbs and lifestyle practices can make a huge difference.
Sleep disturbances – When your nervous system is overstimulated, sleep becomes elusive. We’ll work on practices that help you wind down naturally.
Joint pain and stiffness – This is that wind energy affecting your bones and joints. Specific oils and movement practices can help significantly.
Weight gain and slower metabolism – Your body’s needs are changing, and we’ll adjust your diet and lifestyle accordingly.
My Approach to Menopause Support
Cooling practices for hot flashes:
- Specific herbs like Shatavari and Amalaki
- Cooling breathing techniques
- Foods that don’t add heat to your system
Nourishing practices for dryness:
- Healthy fats in your diet
- Herbal oils for external use
- Hydrating herbs like Yashtimadhu
Calming practices for anxiety:
- Ashwagandha and Brahmi for nervous system support
- Daily oil massage to calm your system
- Meditation and breathing practices
Sleep support:
- Warm milk with spices before bed
- Foot massage with calming oils
- Creating a bedtime routine that signals rest
Yoga for the Menopause Years
Yoga during menopause isn’t about pushing your body – it’s about supporting it through this transition.
Gentle poses that help:
- Reclining butterfly pose for pelvic relaxation
- Legs up the wall for cooling and circulation
- Gentle backbends for emotional support
- Child’s pose for grounding and calm
Breathing practices:
- Cooling breath techniques for hot flashes
- Balancing breathing for emotional stability
- Deep relaxation practices for better sleep
Lifestyle Adjustments That Make a Difference
- Daily self-massage with warm oils
- Eating foods that are cooling and nourishing
- Avoiding stimulants that can trigger hot flashes
- Creating regular routines that support your body’s new rhythms
- Finding ways to process emotions and life changes