Pilates, Yoga, Menopause and Me
Introduction:
Movement is in my DNA, and for as long as I can remember I have used lifestyle medicine to optimise health and wellness for myself and my family. As I encountered the challenges presented by menopause my Physiotherapy expertise and my passion for all things movement-related proved priceless. Pilates, Yoga, and natural medicine were all central to me mastering this transformative phase in my life.
For this podcast episode join me in the ‘Treatment Room Podcast’ where I chat with host Dani Marks, Head of Partnerships at NAT Global Campus. Listen on to hear my Top Movement Tips to thrive up to, through and beyond Menopause.
Join us and discover:
- How my early life set me on my path to discover the power of movement as medicine.
- Get the lowdown on the profound impact of menopause on a woman’s body and how Movement for Menopause can make a massive difference.
- Why my lived experience leaves me without any doubt of the intimate connection between a healthy body, mind, and spirit.
If you want to know what movements make the most difference and discover the power of movement as medicine for the body and mind listen on!
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Watch us chat on YouTube
Key messages:
A Journey Rooted in Movement
My teenage years were influenced by our family traditions of sports and outdoor activities. This remains the foundation for my passion for holistic well-being still today. My career in physiotherapy was also a gateway to my lifelong commitment to movement and its pivotal role in maintaining overall health.
Pilates and Yoga are at the Heart of my transformation.
My holistic approach to movement led me to Pilates and yoga.
- First, I experienced the profound blend of physical and mental well-being afforded by machine and mat Pilates.
- Next, the transformative power of breath and movement afforded by Hatha yoga resonated with me. And so Yoga became the second Pillar of my movement practice.
- Finally, moving beyond specific styles, I embrace diverse movement experiences and incorporate lessons learned from each practice into my holistic philosophy.
My journey unfolds as a tapestry of exploration, growth, and an unwavering commitment to inspiring others to embrace the life-changing power of movement.
Menopause and the Uncharted Path
Navigating the uncharted waters of menopause became a significant chapter in my life. Symptoms made a gradual appearance following my return from living in the U.S. I encountered unexpected challenges, namely insomnia, digestive difficulties, heavy periods, dry skin, and I could go on!
I was not in the least bit prepared for these unwelcome changes and set about learning all that I could. This journey, nigh on 10 years of self-experimentation brought me a renewed appreciation of movement’s role in managing my menopause symptoms.
Menopause is not a uniform experience for women and a multitude of variables can influence how symptoms play out. I have the utmost sympathy for the 25% of women who struggle with severe symptoms but, I do know without a shadow of a doubt that there is NOT ONE SYMPTOM of Menopause that doesn’t respond to movement.
Empowering everyone to enjoy movement for Holistic Well-Being
The best advice I can give to anyone, and everyone is to move more:
- Consider getting stronger, especially after menopause.
- Practice balance-focused exercises.
- Incorporate some mindful movement-type practices like Pilates and Yoga into your weekly routine.
I sincerely hope that my story serves as an inspiration for those facing challenges and contemplating their wellness journeys. I invite you to embrace the transformative power of movement and find empowerment in the face of life’s inevitable changes.
Join me
Book your FREE 30-minute consultation to discover your movement prescription for Menopause.
Checkout My Courses for Therapists with Niel Asher Education
Thank you
To Dani Marks, Head of Partnerships at NAT Global Campus for having me on The Niel Asher Education Treatment Room Podcast.
Disclaimer: Please note that any advice we provide in this podcast is for information only, and if you are unsure of its suitability for your specific circumstances, you should consult your medical practitioner if you have any specific health concerns.