Mind over Menopause
Menopause can be the start of a difficult time in a woman’s life. With drastic changes in hormones, women often find their body just doesn’t work the way it used to. Aside from emotional changes, the body changes physically and we often see the onset of ‘middle-age spread’.
Research also shows that menopause can significantly increase the risk of many chronic diseases. Lifestyle changes, including exercise, can be the answer to managing the changes in your body and emotions and preventing the onset of chronic disease.
Chronic diseases that can increase with menopause:
Osteoporosis is a condition where the strength of bone deteriorates and increases the risk of fracture. One third of (post) menopausal women will have an osteoporosis-related fracture. Specific exercises can be prescribed to improve bone density and increase balance and prevent the chance of falls.
Cardiovascular Disease risk increases significantly at the onset of menopause and is the leading cause of death in women over the age of 50. A healthy lifestyle, including exercise, can help to manage cardiovascular health and prevent the onset of chronic disease.
Cancer affects all age groups and the incidence of cancer increase with age however we know that some cancers, such as breast cancer, has an increased risk after menopause. Exercise, as part of a healthy lifestyle, can help to prevent some cancers, but is also an important tool in the management of cancer treatment and recovery.
Obesity is a significant health problem during menopause. With the changes in hormones, metabolism slows down and often results in weight gain, particularly around the middle. Weight gain around the centre impacts the vital organs and can lead to other long-term health conditions. It is also important to manage weight gain during menopause to prevent aches and pains associated with increased joint load.
Depression is a very common side effect of menopause and there is a positive link between regular exercise and improved mental well-being. Creating a good exercise routine can help keep a positive frame of mind and improve self-esteem and self-worth.
Menopause is a challenging time for women, but exercise can help. Our Exercise Physiologist, Alicea, can help you implement a regular exercise program to help prevent chronic diseases and maintain a healthy lifestyle long into the future.
Sessions with Alicea may be Health Fund Claimable, or you may have access to Medicare-funded sessions/ Call the studio for more information on 07 5337 9853.
Get our 40-page eBook: Hormones in Harmony, for tips on how to manage symptoms and feel your best
Available for download from the Embody Movement online store.
