Finding Your Menopausal Mojo!

What is the Menopause?

Menopause is a normal transition in a woman's reproductive system, typically occurring between the ages of 41 and 55, although early signs may appear earlier. It marks the end of the reproductive period when the ovaries cease to produce hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. As a result, women may experience various physical and emotional symptoms, such as hot flushes, night sweats, fatigue, depression, weight gain, anxiety, poor concentration, and memory lapses. While some women opt for conventional medical treatments such as hormone replacement therapy, others prefer holistic therapies, such as reflexology.

How Can Reflexology Help with Menopause?

Reflexology has been found to be beneficial for addressing the physical and emotional symptoms of menopause. By regulating hormones and glandular functions in the body, reflexology can help balance both physical and emotional systems, restoring harmony to the hormonal system. Reflexology works by stimulating the endocrine system, particularly the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which can relieve symptoms such as hot flashes and anxiety. By calming the central nervous system, reflexology can also reduce stress levels, sleep disturbances, and anxiety.

Studies have shown that regular reflexology treatments can help reduce hot flushes, night sweats, and sleep problems in menopausal women. For instance, a 2016 study found that women who received twice-weekly reflexology treatments for six weeks reported fewer hot flashes and night sweats (Gozuyesil & Baser, 2016). Another study in 2011 showed that menopausal women who had difficulty sleeping saw improvement after receiving reflexology (Asltoghiri & Ghodsi, 2012).

While reflexology cannot stop the natural progression of menopause, it can bring balance, calmness, and greater control to a woman's body and mind during this life stage. A course of reflexology treatments is designed for each individual, with regular visits, initially either weekly or bi-weekly, being recommended to regulate the body.

Ways to Boost your Emotional Wellbeing!

• Unwind and de-stress with activities like meditation, yoga, journaling, and a leisurely stroll

• Exercise is the foundation of feeling fantastic!

• Dream big and create a vision board to set your brain on a quest for success

• Write down three things you're grateful for every day and give your brain a daily dose of positivity

• Keep your energy levels steady by keeping an eye on your blood sugar

• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol to give your mind and body a break

• Treat yourself, because you deserve it!

• Unleash your inner artist and get creative

• Grin and giggle as much as possible

• Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or professionals and talk about your feelings.