And I said to my body, softly, “I want to be your friend”.

It took a long breath and replied, “I have been waiting my whole life for this.”

On average, perimenopause can begin in women's late 30s or early 40s, when our hormonal landscape begins to change. For some women, this can happen earlier, for example, due to surgery or treatment for an illness. Women can experience symptoms, even if their periods are still arriving monthly. This might give rise to some confusion about what might be going on, and difficulties in seeking help in addressing any symptoms. 

Each journey is different, as we're all unique. Some women don't experience many symptoms, or experience them in a milder and more manageable version. Others will experience symptoms that are more severe and impact many aspects of their lives. 

Menopause is the end of our reproductive years, but it can also be a beginning of a new chapter, that we can write. Allowing ourselves time to connect with and explore our changing selves, on physical, emotional, and mental levels. Deciding what we use our unique energy, knowledge, and talents for. 

There are things we can do to support ourselves on our journey. These can include seeking medical support and treatments, exploring alternative therapies, ensuring we get as much rest and good nutrition as possible, and introducing gentle body movements to maintain muscle and bone strength and support mobility. Assessing our stress levels and finding tools to help us manage it effectively is also very beneficial, as stress is known to significantly affect our health and well-being. 

Yoga can be practised in a way that supports women in perimenopause, menopause and beyond. It can encourage women to connect with their bodies, minds and emotions, relax, release stress, build strength and improve mobility. The different postures, movements, meditation and breathing techniques that yoga has to offer, can be adapted and explored to provide a valuable addition to a well-being support toolbox.   

This free online workshop will provide an overview of yoga, focusing on how the practice can provide support to women before, during and after menopause. There will be an opportunity to learn and try yoga postures and movements, meditation and breathing techniques as part of the workshop.