Harnessing the power of yoga for women - part two

Menopause- Ruahinetanga, and peri - menopause- the build up to menopause can be hard!

But you are not alone, and although your practice may change, it's not necessary to give it up. If you're feeling tempted to give up yoga during perimenopause or post menopause, please remember there is a practice for you.

I've been there, and I know first hand just what a massive change it can be for many women. But there's many ways that yoga helped me, and it can help you too.

Mindful yoga helps to reset your nervous system, and helps to decrease cortisol and inflammation. It is a boon for women during these tumultuous phases.

The gifts of yoga go beyond this- helping us to move our bodies and keep our joints and bones healthy and strong as well. The postures can offer a mix of movement- for joints and tendons, flexibility, and also strengthening poses such as warrior, goddess pose, plank and so on. Poses also help us to keep our core strength, helpful for our posture, and preventing or easing back pain.

It is not all about stretching, or relaxation either. The beneficial stress of going to the edge of your comfort zone helps to keep the brain and body healthy, and resilient. Helping us to enjoy our life and maintain an active lifestyle.

Yoga teaches us to be present, to breathe, and to find calm amidst the chaos. It's not about escaping the stressors in our life, but rather learning how to navigate them with grace and resilience.

Yoga is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it's a journey. It's about finding the right practice that suits your body and your needs. It's about listening to your body and honoring its limits. It's about finding balance - between effort and ease, between movement and stillness, between strength and flexibility.

And let's not forget about the community aspect of yoga. The shared experience of practicing yoga with others can foster a sense of belonging and connection. It's a space where you can feel supported and encouraged, where you can share your struggles and victories. This sense of community can be a powerful antidote to the feelings of isolation and loneliness that can sometimes accompany the menopause journey.

So, if you're navigating the choppy waters of perimenopause or post menopause, remember that yoga is there for you. It's a tool that can help you stay strong, healthy, and resilient. It's a practice that can support you in living a long, fulfilling life. It's a gift that keeps on giving. So, why not give it a try?

Remember, your health and wellbeing are worth investing in. Your future self will thank you.