As we go through the peri to post menopause journey we will undoubtedly experience many different sysmptoms - things that we can see and feel.  However there is a lot more going on that we can't necessarily see and feel - what's happening to our bones, our muscles, our heart, our brain?  Check out my Movement & Menopause blog post here for more on this.

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It is important to remember that our bodies undergo tremendous change during his time and just because symptoms may decline in intensity and for some lucky ones disappear altogether, the effects of what goes on in the body will remain beyond this time. It is therefore the perfect time to reassess and consider setting ourselves up for the future. If you want to keep fit and well for as long as possible then I would strongly recommend you 'keep moving'.  Think about the following benefits, this is not just about the menopause but what we should be doing anyway, creating time for ourselves and prioritising our health not just for the here and now but for the future. 

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What movement and physical activity can do for us:

Improve/maintain cardiovascular and respiratory health

Improves bone health 

Improves joint mobility - ability of joints to move actively through range of movement 

Improves flexibililty - ability of muscles to lengthen easily allowing range of movement

Improves functional movement - ability to move the body with proper muscle and joint function for activities of daily living

Assists core strength, stability and posture

Assists weight management

Improves strength (general plus focused eg grip strength, floor to standing)

Improves lymphatic circulation helping to protect against infection and disease

Improves balance 
Encourages greater proprioception and agility

Improves, confidence, self esteem

Improves mood, helps with depression and anxiety

Creates 'me time', prioritising ourselves and our health

 

By being active we can certainly challenge the menopause journey and all that comes with it.  It is not compulsory to put on a few pounds, it is not compulsory that we have to stop doing things because they seem a bit more difficult, it's not compulsory that we develop unwanted medical conditions, it is not compulsory that we coninue to put others first and soak up the stress that life brings our way. What should be compulsory though is finding time for ourselves and doing what's right for us!  

 

Think longevity! Movement and exercise that will provide you with the ability to keep moving well, retain strength, challenge the brain and get the heart rate up. It can be anything you want! The detail will depend on what you are trying to achieve - weight loss, run a 5k, improve mobility, manage a medical condition, etc.  Most importantly find something you enjoy, are prepared to find time for and can fit into your life, make it challenging both physically and mentally. Go for variety!

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If you want to know more or would like some advice, then please contact me 

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