Myths of Menopause – It’s Time to Take Charge!

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Are you feeling anxious about menopause?   I heard so many stories before entering into menopause that I was anxious before I had any symptoms. I kept waiting for them to come and when I began to experience some changes, I waited for them to increase and then wondered when I would get the rest!   

For sure menopause has its challenges and you experience changes that can affect your life in some unwanted ways, but it doesn’t have to be a time of distress and unease.  When I stopped worrying about what was here or yet to come, and  focused on positive changes, I actually did feel better.  

I want to share with you 3 myths of menopause, (there are so many) that I was quite concerned about, and the truths that could help put your mind at ease.   

Myth #1 – Menopause Causes Depression

Truth – There is no study that suggests menopause alone is linked to mental illness, including clinical depression.  Hormonal fluctuations, increased stress, hot flashes and body image can certainly cause mood swings but this is not the same thing as clinical depression.  This could also be a time when kids move out, and long terms jobs could be losing our interest. It’s no wonder we could be feeling a little depressed!  

However, this could present more time for exercise, a focus on healthier eating, and perhaps new work options to explore….face the change and take charge!

Myth #2 – Weight Gain is Inevitable In Menopause

Truth – The truth is your metabolism does slow down if you have been sedentary and muscle cells have been converting to fat cells which burn fewer calories.  If you don’t adjust your intake of food and/or expend more calories than you take in, you will see weight gain!  Without regular strength training, you will notice a decrease in muscle tone.  Changing your lifestyle  by making time for exercise and changing your eating habits require commitment and a plan with realistic goals.    

Myth #3 – Menopause Means I’m Losing My Mind

Truth – Some women worry their memory lapses are the beginning of dementia, but there’s no firm evidence that memory or other mental skills actually decline because of natural menopause.  Fluctuating hormones and stress in your life maybe temporarily interfering with your otherwise intact and active mind.  Help to prevent memory loss by remaining physically, socially, and mentally active.

It’s Time To Take Charge!

Changes are different for each woman, but with greater understanding and less stress about what changes are here or coming , you can focus on taking charge and enjoying a happy, healthy and active life in an exciting life stage ahead !

For more information on Menopause and Research check out The North American Menopause Society  

Invitation to Seminar at ellephysio

I want to invite you to attend my “Truth About Menopause” seminar at ellephysio on Monday, Feb. 10 at 7:30 pm.  Learn more about menopausal changes and how the components of an exercise program can help you look and feel better!

If unable to attend, but interested in exploring a Personal Training program with me,  I ‘m happy to meet with you for a FREE 20 minute consultation and 20% off Personal Training if you decide to go forward. 

 Wishing you well Ladies!  50+ can be some of the BEST YEARS of your life!