Menopause Conversations

There is an obesity crisis around the world and the statistics are concerning. 

Australia's statistics are much the same. Is it any wonder why people are desperate for a quick solution and that these quick solutions are also on the rise?
But, how safe are they for you? What are the benefits vs the side effects? What do the studies show and do these 'solutions' offer a long-term fix?
It's a tricky one to navigate in a culture of immediacy so let's dive in to this one together and explore how you can teach your body to be more metabolically flexible. 

Learn more about this in my upcoming FREE 4 Day Workshop, The Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT. Starting 20th May.

What is Cholesterol? Why is it important and why does it go up in menopause?

In this episode we answer all of these questions and more as we take a closer look at Cholesterol, it's functions in the body and look to remove the fear that is often surrounding it.

We consider diet, your genetics, your bodys production of cholesterol and why, the side effects of cholesterol lowering medications, how to talk to your Dr, LDL vs HDL, and what you can be doing naturally to support a healthy balance.

Want to learn more about how to naturally reduce your cholesterol levels, lose your meno-belly and thrive in menopause?

Join the upcoming FREE 4 Day Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT Workshop.

Starting 20th May - register now at http://bit.ly/Menopause_Workshop

Soy! Is it goodfor me or is it bad for me?

Join me for this episode as I talk about the benefits and risks of including soy in your diet, especially for women going through menopause.

We'll look at the balances between nutritional science, cultural practices, individual health needs, the quality of the product, and a greater understanding of what Soy actually is and what you need to consider for your own personal health.

Keen to learn more about how to support your health during the peri-menopause and menopause transitions?

Register for my upcoming FREE online 4 Day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop.

Starts 20th May!

In this weeks episode of Menopause Conversations I cover Hormone Imbalance.

What does it mean? What causes it and what can you do about these imbalances.

Education is empowerment so take an active role in managing your menopause journey by becoming educated on hormone imbalances and the natural methods available to support your health.

As you finish this episode, catch up on previous episode where I go into Using Seeds to Balance Your Hormones.

Find out more by joining my upcoming FREE Menopause Demystified Masterclass.

Register via this link.

In this episode I address the question I am often asked, Why do you promote against HRT?

The short answer is, I don't. I am pro-choice and believe this should be each individuals choice, not my choice or that of a Dr but yours.

It is important to be educated on the risks and benefits when making that choice as some women do need HRT, some simply can not take it, some women try it and it doesn't work for them, others choose not to take it and are looking for an alternative and naturopathic approach. This is where my scope of practice lies.

Join me for the next 20 minutes as I dig deeper into the topic of HRT and in the context of what is actually happening to your body during this stage of life. I'll offer some information for you to consider to make the right choice for you.

If you want to understand more about menopause, I am offering a free Menopause Demystified Masterclass (no sales pitches).

You can register here: https://angelacounsel.com/menopause_webinar

In this episode we look into why diets don't work for Meno-Belly and why what used to work for you, has stopped working for you as you go through the menopause transition. The good news? I share a solution of what you can be doing to lose that dreaded meno-belly and continue to be fit and healthy as you move beyond menopause. Let's jump in and be sure to grab your FREE ebook resource at the end.

https://angelacounsel.com/understanding_menopause_ebook/

Welcome to Menopause Conversations, in this week’s episode I am delving into the role that your environment plays on your hormones and health. 

Let's begin by understanding the role of genes in our menopause experience. Our genetic makeup is what makes us unique individuals. While we all possess specific genes inherited from our parents, it is the environment that determines their activation and expression. Genes act as our body's potential, dictating how it could behave. However, they require external stimulation to be activated or deactivated. For instance, when we exercise, we stimulate specific genes related to muscle strength. Similarly, environmental factors can trigger or suppress certain genes, influencing our health and well-being during menopause.

Moving on to nutrition, we discover a fascinating concept: our digestive system is actually external to our bodies. Visualize it as a big hose running through us, with the inside of the hose being external and the outside being internal. When we consume food, it enters this external environment and interacts with our microbiome, breaking down nutrients and processing toxins. Proper nutrition is crucial for our brain function, hormonal balance, and overall cellular health. Consuming foods that align with our individual needs can trigger positive gene expression and contribute to improved well-being.

Next, let's explore the impact of social interactions and mental well-being. The people we surround ourselves with significantly influence our gene expression. Some individuals thrive when interacting with others, while others prefer solitude or smaller groups. These preferences are driven by our genes and can influence our stress levels. Understanding and honouring our social preferences can help create an environment that supports our unique needs, promoting overall mental well-being during menopause.

Now, let's turn our attention to the physical environment and nature's influence. The place we inhabit plays a crucial role in our gene expression and overall health. Each individual has different preferences for their environment. While some find solace in nature, others thrive in bustling city environments. Nature has been shown to have profound effects on well-being, reducing stress and lowering blood pressure for many individuals. However, it's important to recognize that different people may have diverse responses to various environments. Creating a supportive environment that aligns with our genetic blueprint can enhance our menopause experience and alleviate symptoms.

To wrap up, we invite you to join the "Thriving in Menopause Without HRT" workshop. This comprehensive workshop offers a holistic approach to help you navigate this transformative phase. Over the course of five days, you will gain insights into your genetics, environmental influences, and actionable steps you can take to create a blueprint for optimal well-being. From understanding your nutritional needs to identifying the right exercise frequency and designing a supportive social and physical environment, this workshop empowers you to make informed choices that align with your unique physiology and genetics. Join us and discover how to embrace your menopause journey with grace, resilience, and joy.

Join us on Menopause Conversations and embark on the journey to thriving in menopause. Sign up for the "Thriving in Menopause Without HRT" workshop today, to register visit bit.ly/Menopause_Workshop

Welcome back to the Menopause Conversations Podcast! In this episode, we are going on a personal journey, sharing of experiences and discoveries in menopause. Get ready to be inspired and empowered as we delve into a story of transformation and importance of personalised health.

I, a naturopath, kinesiologist, and personalised health coach, has dedicated my career to women's health and gut health. However, when it came to menopause, I found myseld unprepared and unaware of its true impact. Menopause was not given much attention during my naturopathic studies, and my knowledge was limited to common symptoms like hot flushes and mood swings. It wasn't until I experienced perimenopause firsthand that I understood the complexity of this transitional phase.

During perimenopause, I had just given birth to my second child and attributed the physical and emotional changes to the demands of motherhood and a busy clinic. However, as my symptoms persisted and worsened, I began to connect the dots and realised that menopause was the underlying cause. Mood swings, joint pain, body aches, weight gain, and a sense of purposelessness became prominent challenges in my life.

Determined to find a solution, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and personalised health. I learned about genetic personalised health and the profound impact it can have on overall well-being. By understanding my genetic makeup and listening to my body's needs, I made strategic changes in my diet, exercise routines, and sleep patterns. The results were astounding—I effortlessly shed weight, experienced a reduction in pain, and gained strength and vitality. My stress levels decreased, and I discovered a renewed sense of purpose.

Inspired by my own transformation, I now share my knowledge and strategies with other women. I invite you to join "The Secret to Thriving in Menopause Without HRT" workshop, starting on July 17th. In this workshop, participants will learn how to create their own menopause blueprint based on their genetic profile. I will guide you in making informed decisions about food choices, exercise routines, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to your body's unique needs. This workshop is an opportunity to embrace optimal health and well-being during menopause.

Don't miss out on this life-changing opportunity! Register for "The Secret to Thriving in Menopause Without HRT" workshop today at bit.ly/Menopause_Workshop and take the first step towards a thriving menopause experience.

In today's episode, we'll be discussing an intriguing topic: intermittent fasting for women in menopause. Menopause brings about various changes in our bodies, and exploring different strategies to support our well-being is essential. So, let's dive into the world of intermittent fasting and its potential benefits and considerations specifically tailored to women in menopause.

Definitions

Intermittent Fasting: Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that alternates between periods of fasting and periods of eating. It involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting, typically in specific time windows. The fasting periods are longer than the typical overnight fast and can range from several hours to a full day or more. There are various intermittent fasting methods, such as the 16/8 method (16 hours of fasting, 8 hours of eating) or alternate-day fasting, where fasting and non-fasting days alternate.

Restricted Time Eating (also known as Time-Restricted Eating): Restricted time eating is a form of intermittent fasting that focuses on limiting the daily eating window rather than the duration of fasting. It involves condensing all meals and caloric intake within a specific time frame each day. For example, a common approach is the 14/10 method, where you fast for 14 hours and have a 10-hour eating window. This means all meals and snacks are consumed within that 10-hour period, while fasting for the remaining 14 hours.

In summary, intermittent fasting is an overarching concept that encompasses various fasting patterns, while restricted time eating is a specific type of intermittent fasting that focuses on limiting the daily eating window.

Points For Intermittent Fasting for Women in Menopause:

Hormone Regulation: Intermittent fasting can help regulate hormones in women going through menopause. By providing a consistent eating window, it can potentially alleviate hormonal imbalances and reduce symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.

Weight Management: Menopause often leads to weight gain due to hormonal changes. Intermittent fasting can be an effective strategy to manage weight during this phase. By limiting the eating window, it can help create a calorie deficit, promote fat loss, and maintain a healthy weight.

Insulin Sensitivity: Intermittent fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for women in menopause. As hormonal changes can affect insulin regulation, intermittent fasting may help maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing insulin resistance.

Mental Clarity: Some women in menopause experience cognitive challenges like brain fog and memory issues. Intermittent fasting may promote brain health by increasing the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports neuron growth and improves cognitive function.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: Menopause is often accompanied by increased inflammation in the body. Intermittent fasting has been linked to reducing inflammation markers, potentially offering relief to women experiencing inflammatory symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness.

If you're curious about whether intermittent fasting is suitable for your genetic profile and body type, I invite you to join me for a transformative workshop called "The Secret to Thriving in Menopause Without HRT." In this workshop, we will delve deeper into the world of genetics, body types, and personalized approaches to menopause management. You'll gain valuable insights and tools to determine whether intermittent fasting aligns with your unique needs. Don't miss out on this empowering opportunity to navigate menopause with confidence. Visit bit.ly/Menopause_Workshop to secure your spot today. Together, let's unlock the secrets to thriving in menopause without HRT.

This week’s episode of the Menopause Conversations Podcast is all about gut health and the role that your gut bacteria plays in balancing your hormones and supporting your brain health as you move through your menopause transition. We will be covering the following topics:

1 – why having a healthy gut is vital for balancing your hormones

2 – the importance of a healthy gut brain connection when it comes to moods and brain function

3 – some simple steps you can take to improve your gut function

Let’s start with the role of specific gut bacteria required to balance your hormones. These bacteria are know as your Estrobolome.  The estrobolome refers to a group of bacteria in the gut microbiome that plays a crucial role in activating and regulating estrogen in the body. It influences estrogen metabolism and balance, which can impact various aspects of our health, particularly during menopause.  When the estrobolome is unhealthy or imbalanced, it can contribute to issues such as heavy bleeding, uterine fibroids, breast tenderness, and other menopausal symptoms.

So, what are some factors that influence the estrobolome? Several factors can affect its composition and health. Genetics, diet, alcohol intake, environmental exposures, and medications all play a role. I will share some strategies that can help you have a healthy estrobolome shortly.

Now that you have a better understanding of the role of specific bacteria in balancing your hormones let’s have a chat about the role of other bacteria in reducing symptoms such as foggy headedness, depression, anxiety and reducing your risk of alzheimers and dementia.  

The gut and brain are intricately connected through a communication pathway known as the gut-brain axis.  

If you want to learn more about how you can navigate this time of life with ease join me for the free 5 day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Without HRT workshop starts on July 17th, this workshop will provide you with valuable insights and actionable steps to improve your experience of menopause. Here's what you'll gain over the 5 days:

To secure your spot, simply visit https://bit.ly/Menopause_Workshop. Don't miss this opportunity to empower yourself and thrive in menopause naturally. Join us for the "Secret to Thriving in Menopause Without HRT" workshop starting on July 17th.

In this episode, we will address some of the misconceptions surrounding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and offer alternative approaches to navigating the menopause transition.

Let's dive in and explore five key points from this episode:

Remember, these are just some of the key points I covered in this episode. I want you to know that your menopause journey is unique, and it's essential to listen to your body and make informed decisions based on your individual needs and preferences.

In this episode of Menopause Conversations, we shine a spotlight on the crucial role of magnesium during the menopause transition. We will discuss the significance of addressing magnesium deficiency and highlights its benefits in restoring hormonal balance.

Here are five key takeaways from the episode:

Addressing magnesium deficiency has wide-ranging benefits, including reducing stress, improving sleep, supporting thyroid function, boosting energy levels, and even slowing down the aging process. While blood tests for magnesium deficiency are not accurate, women experiencing stress and hormonal changes can benefit from magnesium supplementation.

Discover the various forms of magnesium supplements available, such as magnesium citrate for constipation relief and magnesium glycinate for easy absorption without bowel issues. Angela recommends a combination product that includes magnesium, taurine, and B vitamins to enhance energy, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support menopause transition and beyond.

Remember, optimizing magnesium levels is a foundational step for women navigating menopause. Tune in to the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of the role of magnesium in promoting overall well-being during this transformative stage of life.

In this episode of Menopause Conversations, Angela addresses the common use of the term "oestrogen deficiency" and why it is misleading in relation to menopause. She highlights several key points that challenge the notion of menopause as a disease and emphasize the importance of understanding the natural process. Here are five key takeaways from the episode:

Join Angela in future episodes as she explores more misconceptions surrounding menopause and invites guest experts to shed light on the diverse perspectives and experiences associated with this life phase.

Welcome to the Menopause Conversations podcast. In today's episode, we'll delve into the fascinating topic of bone health during menopause. We'll explore the common misconceptions surrounding bone density measurements, the significance of osteopenia, the importance of bone strength versus density, and practical strategies to maintain strong and resilient bones as you age. So, let's dive in and unravel the complexities of bone health in menopause.

Key Points:

Bone Density Measurements: Bone density is commonly measured using a DEXA scan, which provides T-scores and Z-scores. T-scores compare bone density to that of a healthy 30-year-old, disregarding age and other factors. Z-scores compare bone density to people of the same age, sex, and ethnic background, providing a more accurate assessment.

Osteopenia: Osteopenia is a term used to describe lower bone density that is one to two standard deviations below the average for a healthy 30-year-old. It is not a medical diagnosis but indicates a higher risk for osteoporosis. Some experts criticize the use of osteopenia as a disease category, suggesting it has been over-medicalized.

Bone Density vs. Bone Strength: Bone density is not the sole indicator of bone health. Strong bones require not only density but also quality and strength. Factors such as nutrition, exercise, lifestyle, and exposure to environmental toxins influence bone health. High bone density does not guarantee fracture prevention if the bones are brittle and weak.

DEXA Scans and Limitations: DEXA scans, while commonly used to measure bone density, are not perfect predictors of fracture risk. Results can vary depending on the machine used. Additionally, DEXA scans focus on density rather than strength. Therefore, it is important to consider other factors beyond bone density when assessing bone health.

Maintaining Strong Bones: To promote strong bones during menopause and beyond, several strategies can be employed:

Remember that while HRT may reduce the risk of osteoporosis, it is not a guaranteed preventative measure. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate options for individual circumstances. Prioritizing overall health through a holistic approach will contribute to maintaining strong bones and reducing fracture risk during menopause and beyond.

Join us for a game-changing free webinar, "Menopause Demystified: Unravelling Hormonal Changes, Minimising Symptoms, and Embracing a Vibrant Life!"This exclusive event is a must-attend for anyone seeking clarity, support, and practical strategies to thrive during menopause. Led by Angela, Naturopath and Menopause Coach, this webinar will provide invaluable insights into understanding hormonal changes, minimizing bothersome symptoms, and embracing a vibrant and fulfilling life. Don't miss out on this transformative opportunity. Reserve your spot today and take the first step towards reclaiming your power and embracing menopause with confidence! 

You can choose between 2 dates – June 26th and 27th, both at 7pm AEST (same webinar on both nights)

Sign up now!

In this episode of Menopause Conversations, we delve into the topic of menopause and the shame that often surrounds it. As a female podcaster, I understand the importance of open discussions about menopause and aim to empower women through knowledge and support. Let's explore the key points discussed in this episode:

It's time to break the silence, challenge societal stigmas, and foster open conversations about menopause. Together, we can empower women to approach this transition with confidence, support, and the understanding that menopause is a normal and natural part of life.

Join me in the Menopause Conversations Facebook Group to explore more about menopause and how it can be a transformative and empowering journey.

In this episode, I want to touch on the topic of diet culture and its significant impact on the menopause journey for women. If you're a woman who is anywhere in the middle of the menopause transition (around 40 and above), this episode is especially relevant to you.

I personally grew up in the era of low-fat and low-carb diets, where going on various restrictive diets was the norm in an attempt to lose weight. However, what many of us didn't realize is that these dieting practices were actually impacting our experience of the menopause transition.

As a podcaster focused on supporting women through this transformative phase, I often receive criticism for seemingly perpetuating the diet culture that pressures women to conform to a certain body image. However, I want to clarify that my program is not about diets. It's about empowering women to reconnect with their bodies, listen to their bodies, and restore hormonal balance by truly understanding how their bodies work and what is best for them.

I, too, have followed different diets throughout my life, recommending the popular keto diet to many seeking weight solutions. While it initially seemed effective, I realized that it was just another restrictive diet with limitations. There have been countless diets like Weight Watchers, liquid diets, and more that have shaped our beliefs about our bodies.

It's important to recognize that the reasons behind our past dieting efforts were often rooted in striving for an unrealistic image of ourselves. We were chasing a different body, influenced by airbrushed images and glossy magazines. Moreover, the belief that being thin automatically equates to being healthy is a misconception we need to challenge.

During the menopause transition, many women start putting on weight and feeling uncomfortable in their bodies due to the natural changes occurring. However, it's crucial to understand that weight gain does not equate to being unhealthy. There are various body types, and health is determined by factors beyond size. We need to break free from the limited role models and embrace the diversity of body shapes and sizes.

The low-fat era instilled a fear of certain foods and led to nutrient deficiencies, as fats were replaced with sugar and additives in processed foods. Cholesterol, demonized during that time, is actually essential for hormone production, especially during menopause. It's important to consume healthy fats from natural sources and avoid manufactured fats that can be harmful to our health.

Counting calories and obsessively tracking food can create stress and guilt around eating. Instead, we should shift our focus to the quality of food and listen to our bodies' needs. It's about nourishing ourselves and enjoying food without feeling guilty.

Over-exercising and not eating enough can be counterproductive during menopause. Our bodies perceive stress, and excessive exercise combined with inadequate nutrition can hinder our well-being. It's crucial to find a balance and listen to our bodies' signals.

It's time to embrace the changes that come with menopause and shift our focus from anti-aging to embracing the wisdom and opportunities that lie ahead. Aging is a natural process, and rather than trying to fight it, we should celebrate and create something fantastic for the next half of our lives.

Let's foster a better relationship with food by understanding our individual body needs and nourishing ourselves accordingly. Accepting and embracing our bodies as they are essential for our well-being. It's about thriving through intuitive eating and self-acceptance.

Welcome back to another episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast! Today we're going to delve into the fascinating world of genetics and how it influences your journey through menopause. We'll also explore the concept of epigenetics and why it's crucial, especially as you navigate the various symptoms of menopause. Understanding epigenetics empowers you to take control of your experiences. So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let's dive right in!

In this episode:

1. Unraveling Genetics: We'll start by demystifying genetics and DNA. Genetics refers to your unique DNA sequence, the study of which provides insights into your physical health attributes, such as eye color, hair color, and height. We'll also explore genes associated with specific health conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. While genes can predispose you to certain conditions, it doesn't mean you're destined to experience them. We'll debunk the myth that you have no control over your genetic fate.

2. The Power of Epigenetics: Ever heard the saying, "It's all in your genes"? Well, not quite! Enter epigenetics, the study of heritable changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence itself. Epigenetics reveals that you have the ability to influence whether a specific gene is turned on or off, similar to pulling the trigger on a loaded gun. We'll discuss how epigenetics gives you the power to make a difference and reshape your genetic destiny.

3. Taking Charge of Gene Expression: We'll introduce you to the exciting world of epigenetic control and explore the factors that can influence your gene expression. From the food you eat to your environment, exercise habits, and stress levels, various elements play a significant role in determining which genes are activated or suppressed. We'll emphasize the impact of nutrition, physical activity, environmental factors, mindset, and belief systems on your gene expression during menopause.

Remember, menopause is not a one-size-fits-all journey. By understanding the dynamic relationship between genetics and epigenetics, you can take proactive steps to optimize your health, well-being, and overall experience during this transformative phase of life. So, let's explore the incredible potential within your genes and empower you to live your best life during menopause!

Tune in to this episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast and take charge of your genetic destiny today. It's time to unlock the secrets of your genes and embrace the power of epigenetics in shaping your menopause experience. Stay tuned and join us on this exciting journey!

In this episode, Angela shares her recent experience of moving to a new home in regional Queensland and the impact it had on her health. She talks about how the stress of the move caused her body to become imbalanced, resulting in symptoms such as insomnia, body aches, and a weakened immune system. She emphasizes that this experience is common for many women who are dealing with a lot of stress in their lives and not taking care of their health needs. Angela shares that once she was able to address the stress by eating the right foods and getting back into a routine, her symptoms disappeared, and she began to feel great again. She emphasizes that addressing stress is crucial for maintaining women's health and encourages listeners to identify what works best for them in terms of personalized health needs.

Welcome back to this week's episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast. This week's topic is metabolic syndrome, specifically insulin resistance, and its impact on menopause and weight gain.

Key messages:

· Metabolic syndrome is a medical condition that involves a group of risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other health problems

· Insulin resistance is a form of metabolic syndrome that can develop over time and has symptoms such as high blood sugar levels, increased hunger, and difficulty losing weight

· Insulin is a hormone that helps the body take up glucose from food and store it in cells for energy

· When the cells are full, insulin stores the excess glucose as fat, primarily around the waist

· Insulin resistance occurs when the body continually puts glucose into the body through food, and insulin has to store it as fat after the cells are full

· Low-fat diets and artificial sweeteners can trigger insulin resistance and lead to weight gain

· Women who have PCOS have an imbalance in insulin resistance, making it a metabolic condition rather than a reproductive one

· During menopause, estrogen levels decline, which can reveal insulin resistance that was masked before

· To manage insulin resistance, one should consume more fibre, fat, and protein in their diet, along with adding more vegetables

Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome can be managed through diet and lifestyle changes. Eating more fibre, fat, and protein, along with adding more vegetables, can help improve gut health and manage insulin resistance

Thanks for tuning in to this week's episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast.

Welcome to this week's episode of Menopause Conversations podcast. In this episode, we discuss the importance of chronobiology and how understanding your personal biorhythm can positively impact your health, especially during menopause. Chronobiology refers to the study of the body's natural rhythms and cycles, including your sleep cycles, eating cycles, and movement cycles.

As women, we are highly dependent on cycles, including your menstrual cycles, daily cycles, and seasonal cycles. Your personal biorhythms are essential to your health, and being out of alignment with them can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, depression, sleep disorders, and hormonal imbalances.

The host shares her personal story of discovering her natural sleep cycle and how making a simple change to her exercise routine improved her health. She emphasizes that each person is unique and that understanding one's personal biorhythm is crucial to living a healthy life during menopause.

Angela also shares the story of one of her clients who made changes to her routine and discovered that understanding her personal biorhythm positively impacted her health. The client was able to reduce joint pain, lose weight, and think clearer by aligning her exercise routine to her personal biorhythm.

Overall, this episode highlights the importance of understanding your personal biorhythm and how it can help you live a healthier life during menopause.

In this episode, we dive into the topic of menopause and the challenges that women face during this time. Our host shares her own personal journey and experiences with menopause, including symptoms such as hot flushes, joint pain, weight gain, and difficulty sleeping. She also touches on the importance of understanding the concept of bio individuality and how it applies to a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Key Points:

Thank you for listening to this episode on Understanding Menopause and Bio Individuality. We hope you found it informative and helpful. Don't forget to tune in next week for another insightful episode.

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the changes happening in your body during menopause? Look no further! Join me for the completely free 5-day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop starting on February 26th, 2023.

In this workshop, I will guide you through the mysteries of menopause and give you the tools to understand your body and hormones. You'll even discover your genetic profile, which will help you determine the best foods, exercise, sleep patterns, and more for your individual needs.

By the end of the workshop, you'll have a personalized Menopause Blueprint that will show you exactly what you need to do to thrive during this next stage of life. With my guidance and support, you'll gain confidence and feel empowered to make positive changes for your health and well-being.

Don't wait any longer, sign up for the free 5-day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop now! Click the link to register: bit.ly/Menopause_Workshop. Don't miss this opportunity to take control of your health and feel your best during menopause. I can't wait to see you there!

In this first episode for 2023, we will be discussing Phytoestrogens, a natural way to regulate hormones during menopause.

Introduction

What are Phytoestrogens?

Benefits of Phytoestrogens

Research on Phytoestrogens

Conclusion

Extra Resources

Link to Interview with Maryon Stewart on Phyto-Oestrogens

Link to podcast on HRT

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the changes happening in your body during menopause? Look no further! Join me for the completely free 5-day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop starting on February 26th, 2023.

In this workshop, I will guide you through the mysteries of menopause and give you the tools to understand your body and hormones. You'll even discover your genetic profile, which will help you determine the best foods, exercise, sleep patterns, and more for your individual needs.

By the end of the workshop, you'll have a personalized Menopause Blueprint that will show you exactly what you need to do to thrive during this next stage of life. With my guidance and support, you'll gain confidence and feel empowered to make positive changes for your health and well-being.

Don't wait any longer, sign up for the free 5-day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop now! Click the link to register: bit.ly/Menopause_Workshop. Don't miss this opportunity to take control of your health and feel your best during menopause. I can't wait to see you there!

In this episode of Menopause Conversations I chat with Beverley Webb from Step Forward Coaching. Beverley had a really tough childhood but she managed to survive and eventually become a very successful business woman. But Beverley hadn’t left the trauma of her childhood behind her, it started to show up in her health and also her relationship with her children.

After losing everything, including her health, Beverley saw this as the chance to remove the masks that she had been hiding behind and find her voice.

Once Beverley healed the trauma of her childhood she knew that she had to help others find their voice as well. As a constant high achiever managed to retrain as a coach in a short time frame so that she could start helping others as soon as she could.

Beverley that silence makes the guilt and shame worse, this is why she believes it is her legacy is to use her voice to help others and she does this every single day with her words and her actions. This was a truly inspiring conversation that I thoroughly enjoyed.

To learn more about the work that Beverley does you can visit her website, her instagram is @stepforward_tohaveavoice and her facebook is @StepForwardRecovery.

Subscribe to the Menopause Conversations Podcast so you never miss an episode. Click on any of the images below to subscribe.

This episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast is a little different from normal. The first difference is that I have a Wise Man on the podcast rather than a Wise Woman. The second difference is the topic – saving children from sex trafficking. I wish that I didn’t have to have this conversation with Marc but the work that Marc does with Destiny Rescue is real and it is needed.

Destiny Rescue is a Not-for-Profit organisation started in Australia over 18 years ago and is dedicated to fighting the trafficking and sexual exploitation of children in seven nations. Their highly trained agents run covert and raid rescue operations, day and night to locate and rescue children being used and abused.

With the ongoing support of generous donors, Destiny Rescue has successfully liberated over 5,200 individual victims of human trafficking. They have been instrumental in the closing of many bars, clubs and brothels known to be targeting children for sex work and have seen numerous perpetrators prosecuted.

Their tireless work has also helped keep hundreds more young ones from entering the sex trade through various local community prevention programs and delivered justice and care for those who have been rescued

I didn’t say much in this episode because I felt that I needed to be quiet and let Marc share the story of these children. By the end of the episode I was in tears. If there is anything that you can do to assist please visit www.destinyrescue.org and either give a one time gift or help to rescue a child.

In this week’s episode of Menopause Conversations I am speaking to Doris Mounsey about her health journey and how that led her to experience medically induced menopause. I often speak about natural menopause but when you have medical conditions or treatments that result in you being in menopause prematurely things can be very different. Women in this situation often experience sudden and severe symptoms as the body has to quickly adjust to the dramatic loss of hormones. This was Doris’s experience and she was left feeling lost and alone as the Drs didn’t really have any solutions for her.

Have a listen to the story that Doris has to share, of how she found a way to manage her symptoms naturally and now helps other women who are on a similar journey to what Doris has been on.

If you have enjoyed this episode or any of the previous episodes of Menopause Conversations please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you are listening to this podcast.

This week's episode of Menopause Conversations was a fun one when I had Bron Roberts who is a Laughter Yoga Teacher. I had heard of laughter yoga before but I wanted to find out more. Bron shares the years when she lost her laughter and what she did to get it back. Bron also found that laughter got her through some tough times when her Mother was very sick.

There was so much fun and laughter throughout this episode particularly when Bron shares the story of the time she turned "crazy old lady" to get a flight upgrade. Bron has so many fun stories to share and she is proud of her "crazy old lady" status.

You will also learn a quick exercise to help you start laughing, follow along with Bron and I guarantee no matter what mood you are in, you will very quickly feel your mood lift as you experience the healing effect of laughter.

If you want to learn more about Bron you can visit her website or find her on LinkedIn as Bron Roberts.

What happens to relationships as you move through your menopause years? For some women it is a time of new beginnings, for others it is a time of endings. In this week’s episode of the Menopause Conversations podcast I chat with Couples Counsellor Iman Iskander.

Iman shares the different stages a relationship goes through and what happens if we happen to get stuck at a particular stage of relationship development. We also talk about women who “stay for the kids” and what happens once their kids are older and no longer dependent on them.

Relationships with one person for a lifetime can be hard, but are we really supposed to be with the same person for our entire adult life? This is the question that I ask Iman and she shares different research studies that show whether this is a good thing or not. This leads to a conversation about different cultures and how they see relationships and the role of women.

This was a great conversation and I am grateful to Iman for share her expertise in this episode, it certainly got me thinking about my relationship. Will I be looking to move to the country and setup a community of only women? Only time will tell, but I do already have the farm in the country!!!

If you would like to learn more about the work that Iman does you can visit her website or follow her on Facebook @Culture of Care - AU.

In this week's episode of Menopause Conversations I am talking with Janet McGeever who is the Co-Author of Tantric Sex and Menopause (with Diana Richardson). This was a beautiful conversation with Janet gently sharing how it is possible to be intimate after menopause despite the changes that happening in our bodies. Janet's book and this conversation is about relearning what we think we know about intimate relationships. She shares the importance of understanding energy, receiving and giving, when it comes to intimacy.

I really enjoyed this conversation with Janet, her voice is so gentle and she holds space while we talk about a topic that can be a sensitive one for many women. I thoroughly enjoyed reading her book and had many ahha moments as I was reading through. There is so much that we can still learn about intimate relationships, things that are completely different to what we have learnt in the past.

I hope that you enjoy this conversation and if you would like to learn more about Janet you can visit her website at www.janetmcgeever.com or www.makingloveretreat.com.au. You can also find Janet on facebook and instagram as @janetmcgeever.

I would love you to leave us a review about what you thought about this conversation, let me know what you think. The more reviews that the podcast gets the more it will show up in the various podcast platforms search options. I will be back next week with another episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast.

What do you do when you reach your mid-stage of life and you look in the mirror and don't really know who you are anymore. Anne McKeown is my guest on this week's episode of Menopause Conversations and she shares what happened when she went through this. Anne is now a Life Coach who helps other women to find themselves and create successful lives, in ways that are meaningful to them.

We discuss discovering who you are beyond your label as a mother, wife, daughter etc. and the endless possibilities that are available to you. Anne shares a simple exercise that you can do to discover who you really are.

Anne is so passionate about the work that she does with women particularly when it comes to finding your purpose in life. If you would like to learn more about the work that Anne does you can visit her website or on social media:

Facebook 

Instagram 

LinkedIn 

Twitter 

In this week’s Menopause Conversations Podcast with Lisa Fitzpatrick we go on a journey to find your inner wise woman. Lisa shares a time when she was looking for a wise woman to guide her through a troubling time in her life, but she couldn’t find anyone. This led her on a journey of discovery and now she works with women to help them to connect to their internal guidance system.

In this conversation we discuss breaking the rules that we have been taught by the dominant patriarchal society that has kept women trapped for many generations. And yes, there is a discussion around witches, in fact it was a question about witches that first attracted me to Lisa and why I wanted to have her as a guest on the podcast.

As we uncover what it is to be a wise woman Lisa shares that wise women are comfortable with the mystery of life whereas before finding our wisdom, we often are looking for certainty and control. She shares how our wisdom comes from deep within our wombspace and how we can connect to our own womb.

In this current world where chaos appears to be the dominant force, healing of the world will come from our feminine energy. Once women are able to re-connect to their physical, emotional and spiritual energies there will be a healing power that re-balance a world that seems to be spiralling out of control.

This is an episode that might need a couple of listens, we go deep in some places. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation, and it isn’t often that I get to have such an open conversation with someone who is on a similar wavelength to me. If some of what we speak about is a little difficult to grasp, please be gentle on yourself and know that the more you listen the more you will understand.

If you would like to connect with Lisa, her website and social media links are:

Website

Facebook 

Instagram 

In this week’s episode of Menopause Conversations I am chatting with a dear friend Franziska Iseli about her new book The Courage Map. Franziska is an adventurer who wants to make a positive impact on the world. Franziska is always looking for great moments of humanity and she found many when she decided to take a motorbike ride across one of the most difficult and notorious highways in the world – the Silk Road.

Whilst she was on her journey Franziska had many different adventurers and met so many people who showed her those moments of humanity that she was looking for. This is a fun conversation with Franziska as she shares stories from her journey and what she learnt about courage from the back of her motorbike.

You can learn more about Franziska and get a copy of her book The Courage Map on her website.

You can also get a free copy of the Courage Map Journal from her website as well, so that you can start your journey of courage.

If you would like to see some of the videos that Franziska created of her journey check out her youtube channel.

As we reach the end of 2022, I invite you to reflect on the past 12 months – the good, the bad and the ugly. In this episode I share with you an exercise that I do with the members of my embrace Inner Circle to reflect and celebrate your achievements for the year as well as let go of the experiences that have not been so great.

Grab your journal and create a quiet space where you can spend some time simply reflecting on the year that was. You could make a ritual of this experience by lighting a candle, making a relaxing cup of tea, burning some beautiful essential oils, anything that helps you to get into a calm place.

This is the final episode for 2022 but that doesn’t mean you need to miss out on your weekly dose of the Menopause Conversations podcast. For the next 2 months I will be re-publishing some of the past 100 episodes. Many of these episodes will be under the title of Wise Women Conversations because that was the name of the podcast before this current name of Menopause Conversations. Enjoy listening to these republished episodes and I will be back in 2023 with some brand new episodes and guests for you to listen to. Have a great holiday break and I will be back in 2023.

More and more women are experiencing menopause after cancer, whether it is from the disease itself or from the treatment.  I wanted to make sure that we covered this topic with the respect that it deserves so decided to ask a friend who has experienced a medically induced menopause at the age of 47.  Sonya Lovell is a personal trainer and has always led a relatively healthy life until she received a cancer diagnosis almost 5 years ago.  

The diagnosis shocked Sonya but what was to come was chaos and confusion as Sonya was plunged very quickly into menopause.  Sonya shares her story of not feeling well informed about what would happen to her when it came to her menopause and the lack of support that she received from the medical fraternity.

In this episode Sonya not only shares her experience she also shares what her dreams are for the future of cancer treatments and the support of women through medically induced menopause.  I am thankful that Sonya was open about her story and that she was able to share some of her tips that helped her through some of her worst times.

To learn more about Sonya visit

Website

Podcast

Instagram

We Are Stellar Women Community

In this week’s episode I am sharing an interview that I did with Yvonne Shepherd from Women’s Fitness Adventures (WFA) for her community.  I share some of my challenges around osteoarthritis and weight gain and how I was able to recover from a full hip replacement and complete a 27km walk 6 weeks after finishing my rehab program.  

I don’t think of myself as inspiring when I share my story because I am simply doing what I need to if I want to be able to stay health and mobile as I age but I have been told that my story is inspiring. If only one woman gets inspiration from what I have achieved, then I will continue to share.  

Mobility, balance and flexibility is so important as we age.  These are what will continue to give us a good quality of life and for me it means that I can continue to do the multi-day hikes that I love to do.  I love the challenge of deciding to do a hike and then the planning process to get fit and strong to be able to complete the hike.  My next big hike is in Iceland on July 2023.  I have already started my training, 9 months out, so that I will be able to complete this challenging hike.

If you would like to learn more about Women’s Fitness Adventures and the hikes that they organise visit:

Website

Facebook 

As we age and our hormones shift, many women start to notice that their skin changes. It isn’t as tight as it was in the past and often, they start to notice lines and wrinkles that weren’t there in the past. I get so many questions about the best skincare to use as you age that I decided to chat with Kim Morrison, the Founder and Creator of a fantastic natural skin care brand called Twenty8.

Kim Morrison is a 5 times best-selling, award-winning author, founder of Twenty8 Essentials, an aromatherapist, health and lifestyle educator, mentor, Master NLP Practitioner and Time Line therapist, Advanced Hypnotherapist and a multi-tasking wife and mum. With two aspiring athletic children, one a ballerina and the other a rugby player, Kim is married to former NZ Cricketer Danny Morrison who, as a family, moved to the Sunshine Coast in 2006.

With athletic goals herself, she played netball well into her 40’s and proudly represented Auckland from 1983-1986. Kim took up the crazy sport of ultra marathon running in her early 20’s and set a world record as the youngest female to run 100miles in less than 24 hours. She went on to represent Australia at the world indoor 24 hour championships in the UK where she set 8 Australian records in 1990.

68-year-old world record holder Cliff Young was her mentor at the time and, to this day, lives by his ethos that success is 90% mental and 10% physical. She has used her running story as a direct metaphor for life – riding the highs, hitting the walls, pushing through the pain barriers, crossing the line and never, ever giving up!

In this episode Kim shares:

If you want to learn more about the work that Kim does and her skincare range, Twenty8 visit:

FACEBOOK

Kim Morrison Training – Facebook Business Page

Twenty8 Essentials – Facebook Business Page

INSTAGRAM

Kim Morrison

Twenty8

TWITTER

Kim Morrison

LINKED IN

Kim Morrison

WEBSITES:

Kim Morrison

Twenty8 

I often get asked about some of my favourite books, podcasts, communities etc when it comes to the topic of menopause. In this episode I share with you some of those resources and their links

Books

Podcasts

Communities

Personal Care Products

It was an honour to have Maryon Stewart as a guest on the Menopause Conversations Podcast. Maryon is the author of Manage Your Menopause Naturally and 27 other books. She is considered a pioneer of the Natural Menopause Movement.

She has helped tens of thousands of women around the world overcome PMS and menopause symptoms without using drugs or hormones. She has had her own TV and radio shows as well as contributing to many other shows and series. In 2018 she was awarded the British Empire Medal and was recognized as one of the 50 most inspirational women by the Daily Mail.

In this episode we talk about

- Women’s expectations and fears around menopause

- The role that phyto-oestrogens can play in helping you to get through your menopause transition with relative ease

- The different research projects that Maryon has conducted to understand more about women’s experiences in menopause and the best method to support women through this transition without the use of additional hormones or drugs.

If you would like to purchase a copy of Maryon’s book click here.

You can connect with Maryon via the following links:

Facebook 

Twitter 

Instagram 

YouTube

Headlines like “Menopause is Costing Women $17bill in lost income a Year” or “Nearly 1mill women leave the workforce due to Menopause” are quite scary and give women the idea that menopause will cause them to lose their jobs. While it is possible that some women make decisions to leave their job while they are in their menopause transition the issue is not as big a problem as the headline makes out.

In this episode of the Menopause Conversations podcast I have a look at some of these headlining statistics and delve into the ‘real’ truth behind the numbers. One thing that I learn many years ago when I was studying to be an Accountant is that you can often “mold” the numbers to tell the story that you want to tell. Add these headlines to the fact that women are being told that everything is “normal” leads women to feel like they are not being heard or that there is nothing that they can do to feel great again, and that life is a downward slide as they reach their menopause transition.

This episode is a little bit of a rant from me, but I think that it is important that we don’t take things at face value, especially the narrative that there is nothing good that happens with menopause and the only way to get through this time of life is to take HRT.

Apparently, HRT not only stops every symptom, it also makes sure that you don’t lose your share of the $7bill and you get to keep your job until official retirement age! Check the episode that I did on HRT HERE

What do you think about what I have had to say in this episode?  Come into the Menopause Conversations facebook group to continue the conversation

Don’t we all sometimes wish that our face looked a little tighter or that we could hide some of the wrinkles that seem to be appearing? In this episode of the Menopause Conversations podcast Vanamala Mayr-Reisch shares some of her tips to naturally lift and tighten your face using face yoga.

Vanamala’s mission is to empower women to build their confidence and feel proud of who they are. She is a certified face yoga teacher, physiotherapist, eye fitness trainer and the founder of Face Yoga Australia.

Face Yoga is a natural way to lift the face and a pathway to profound inner transformation. Vanamala is deeply passionate about sharing her extensive knowledge about the body, mind and spirit, acquired over 35 years of working with people.

Have a listen to the episode and try a couple of the exercises that Vanamala shares for a couple of weeks and see if you notice a difference.

Vanamala offers a variety of face yoga classes, workshops, coaching programs, one-on-one consolations and corporate classes in person and live-online.

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

When I heard that the largest demographic of homeless people in Australia were women over the age of 50, I was completely shocked.  These women are often hidden from society and lose their homes after marriage breakdowns. This statistic is one that my guest on the podcast this week also wants to change. Some people would say that Bernadette Jansen from The School of Renovating is simply a renovator. She is so much more than this.  Bernadette shows women how it is possible to make money through renovating to support you through the second half of your life.  

In this episode Bernadette shares:

If you have ever thought about renovating as a way of funding your retirement, then this is the episode to listen to.

Bernadette is running a live event called She Renovates Live 2022 in Sydney on October 30th 2022 at The Grounds of Alexandria.  Click the here to learn more.

It was recently reported that Drs in the UK are prescribing walking to maintain great health rather than medications, this was music to the ears of our guest on the Menopause Conversations podcast this week.  Yvonne Shepherd is the owner of Women’s Fitness Adventures a company whose mission is to encourage women to become stronger for life through fitness, adventure and social connection.  Yvonne has seen the impact that getting out and moving in nature has had on the health and lives of women in her community.  Many of Yvonne’s members are over 50, with some enjoying life on the trail well into their 70s.  

Yvonne has built a great community of women who train with her to get fit and strong for different adventures and she also creates those great adventures as well.  With hiking trips all around Australia and overseas there are always a variety different experiences available for various levels of fitness, and if you don’t feel fit enough to do a specific adventure Yvonne will support and train you so that you feel confident and take on any adventure that you want.

For the month of October (2023) Yvonne is offering a special discount for members of this podcast.  

Listeners can save an additional 10% on an Annual Membership to Women's Fitness Adventures. This offer is valid through until October 31st, 2023. Use the code ANGELA at the checkout, where the discount will automatically be applied.

This represents a 33% saving over monthly membership, - that's almost 4 months free.  To join visit - https://womensfitnessadventures.com/join-membership

To follow more of Yvonne’s adventures visit

Website

Facebook

Instagram

If you have ever felt that you have missed out on precious summer memories because of how you feel in a swimsuit, then this episode is for you. Anita McLachlan from Sequins and Sand and Summer Confidence Society chats to me about the very real issue that many women experience in summertime. Having owned an online swimsuit retail store for many years Anita soon realised that she wasn’t really in the business of selling swimsuits, she was actually in the business of giving women back their confidence and their self-acceptance

In this episode we discuss

Speaking with Anita is always fun, and she brings a special sense of fun wherever she goes. I am sure that you will enjoy listening to this episode as much as I did recording it.

If you want to learn more about the work Anita is doing with the Summer Confidence Society, she is running some free Masterclasses in October. The Reclaim Your Swimsuit Confidence Masterclass is for you if:

      ⭐ You feel stuck. You hesitate and miss out on making precious summer memories because of how you feel in a swimsuit; you know it’s time to care less and do more of what matters most.

      ⭐ You're tired of 'making do' and settling for what you know isn't serving you well. It's time to find the swimsuit style that will lift your spirits and feel great on.

      ⭐ You’re tired of wasting precious time and money on swimsuits that just don’t fit right and don't do the job for you.

      ⭐ You want a new swimsuit but don’t know where to start, you're overwhelmed and confused.

The Masterclass is being run on 2 dates (choose the date/time that suits you best) – October 5th at 7pm AEST & October 6th at 12pm AEST

To register visit – bit.ly/anita_masterclass

Today’s guest on the Menopause Conversations Podcast is Dr Alyssa Dweck. Dr. Alyssa Dweck is a practicing gynaecologist and the Chief Medical Officer of Bonafide. She has been an Ob/Gyn for over 25 years with a special interest in menopausal health and training in female sexual health.

Dr. Dweck is the co-author of three books and has appeared on The Today Show and Good Day LA. She contributes regularly to multiple in print and online media outlets. She has been voted “Top Doctor” in New York Magazine and Westchester Magazine.

When she’s not helping women improve their health, Dr. Dweck enjoys time with her husband, two sons and “girly” English Bulldog. She is an avid runner and sports car enthusiast.

In this episode we discuss:

You can learn more about the work that Dr Alyssa is doing by following her:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Every single day you receive messages from your body, some messages are louder than others. Have you ever heard them? The only way in which your body can communicate with you is through symptoms, these are the messages from your body.

The human body spends its entire life trying to stay in balance, this is what we call homeostasis. When your body is out of balance you will experience symptoms while the body tries to re-balance itself again. If you don’t listen to the messages and the situation doesn’t change your symptoms will get worse and worse until you have no choice except to stop and make change (or you die!)

As women go through their menopause transition, they often start to experience new symptoms that appear to come out of nowhere. They haven’t come from nowhere and they are not caused by your hormones. In fact, hormones are simply messengers that pass messages between different cells in your body. Your reproductive hormones are quite protective and as these hormone levels come down you start to lose some of the protection these hormones provided you and symptoms start to be more evident. The symptoms aren’t new, they are simply more evident now that the protection offered by oestrogen and progesterone is being diminished.

Some of the common messages that occur in the menopause transition are:

There is an underlying cause for every symptom that you are experiencing, and stress generally is playing a significant role. 

So what can you do?

Stop and listen to your body rather than mask with pills. Don’t think that you are broken, you aren’t. Your body is simply trying to bring itself back to balance. Process any past trauma(s) Respond by eating the right food for your body, move your body the way that feels best, reduce your exposure to environmental toxins, reduce stressful situations in your life and change your mindset around ageing and menopause. The books that I mentioned in the podcast were The Body Keeps Score by Bessel Van der Kolk The Secret Language of Your Body by Inna Segal You Can Heal Your life by Louise Hay

If you want to learn more about what is happening to your body as you move through your menopause transition and more importantly the steps that you can take to navigate menopause with ease then join me for the free 5 Day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop. To register click HERE.

Everyone has tried diets that didn’t work or have found out that what used to work doesn’t work now.  Every woman’s experience of menopause is different 

Your experience of menopause is unique to you, this is why what works for others might not work for you.  It is time to get rid of the cookie cutter approach when it comes to menopause and start seeing every woman as the unicorn that they are.  This is what personalised health is all about, recognising your uniqueness and creating a solution that will work for you

So what makes you different to every other woman on the planet – your genes? (except for identical twins but I will get to that in a minute)

Your genes determine

But genes are not the full story

How does all this information help you to work out what is the right eating or exercise plan for you?

You were born with an inherited body type based on skeletal frame and body composition. Most people are unique combinations of the three body types: ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph or a combination of any 2

            o When to eat, how much to eat

            o When to exercise, the type of exercise

            o How your brain handles stress

            o The impact of various hormones on your body

All of this information is evidence and science based.

If you want to learn how you can identify your body type and the best eating and exercise for you by joining the free 5 day Secret to Thriving in Menopause workshop.  I will go through each of the body types in detail and give you the opportunity to create your own personalised menopause blueprint.  My clients have had 100% success rate when they identify their body type and then adjust their living to their personal biology which is based on their genes, their epigenetics and their health history.

To register for the workshop click here. 

Statistics show that women over the age of 45 are the largest consumers of alcohol in Australia and I would assume that these stats are similar in other western countries. We live in a culture that tells us that alcohol is required to be social, to relax, to have fun, to be part of the group. But there is another side to alcohol consumption, particularly when it comes to women as they are moving through their menopause transition.

The changes in women’s bodies and their hormones means that there is less tolerance to the impacts of alcohol than there was in the younger years. Some of the common symptoms that are associated with alcohol consumption are:

Have a listen to the episode to get a better understanding of what happens to your body when you drink that glass of wine and why your body reacts the way that it does.

If you would like to learn more about reducing your symptoms associated with menopause and your meno-belly then why not join me for the upcoming 5 Day Free Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop where you will get the opportunity to create your own personalised Menopause Blueprint to guide you through your menopause journey. Click HERE to register

Our special guest on this week’s episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast is Fiona Keary from Style Liberation. I have shared Fiona’s work before on an earlier episode any I thought it was time to have Fiona on to have a deeper conversation around how the clothes that we wear tell a story about ourselves. To be honest this was also an opportunity for me to get a personal styling session as Fiona answers some of my questions about how you can determine the best style of clothes to wear and how to create particular shapes with your clothes.

Fiona admits that she used to be a real ‘style tragic’, she loved clothes but had no idea how to put them together in a way that looked great. She obviously has learnt a lot since those early days and now she loves working with women who are over the age of 40, helping them to dress to suit their changing body shape and their changing hair colour.

In this episode Fiona shares:

Fiona is running a free Revamp Your Wardrobe Masterclass - The 3 Secrets to Putting Together Outfits You Love Without Starting from Scratch or Spending Thousands of $$$ on Aug 31st and Sept 1st at 8pm AEST (2 dates but the same masterclass). In this Masterclass you will discover:

To register for the Masterclass visit – www.thewardroberevamp.com

The menopause is a time of change. One of the biggest changes that many women experience is weight gain.

You might have gained weight despite your best efforts to exercise regularly and pay attention to your nutrition, especially in the hard to lose Meno-Belly region. But the issue is the former weight loss strategies that used to work for you typically cease working once you enter menopause.

Women's hormone levels begin to fluctuate in their early 40s. Along with other variables, these hormonal changes play a big part in menopause weight gain. As women progress through menopause, they may gain weight for a variety of causes (often a mix of these).

The good news is that you can shed those excess kilos, but it will require some effort on your part. Understanding how your body functions can help you take the actions that will have the biggest impact.

You may have noticed that not everyone responds well to a particular diet. On a ketogenic diet, some women will thrive while others may find it difficult. Everyone is unique, so as your body changes your need changes. The secret to discovering to lose your meno-belly is understanding your genetic profile.

Finding out your unique genetic HealthTypeTM makes losing weight simple. You will learn the right foods to consume, the perfect times to eat them, how to exercise properly, when to sleep well, and more. Following your individual HealthTypeTM will:

This will minimize your discomfort and reduce your menopausal belly.

Join me for the upcoming session of the FREE 5 Day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop to hear more about how you can lose your meno-belly by identifying your unique HealthTypeTM.

In this workshop, you will discover what your unique HealthTypeTM is and get the chance to create a personalized Menopause Blueprint that will lessen your symptoms and menopausal belly. Click HERE to register for the workshop and receive a BONUS Understanding Your Hormones e-course.

One of the symptoms associated with menopause that is least discussed is joint and body pain. I had continual pain for approximately 2 years when I was in peri-menopause. Although I don't often use painkillers, there have been a few times when I needed to take Panadeine just to fall asleep. Since this generation of women leads more active lives than our mothers and grandmothers did, joint and body pain have not historically been a common symptom associated with Menopause. But there are several factors that need to be considered here. The drop in Oestrogen, diet and ordinary wear and tear all contribute to the pain. Any underlying inflammation will become visible when Oestrogen levels drop, and collagen levels decrease.

Inflammation is most frequently brought on by our food, but there are other causes as well. Collagen is what keeps our skin appearing smooth and young, it also keeps our ligaments and tendons working properly. So, when collagen levels decline, we may become stiffer and less flexible. Meanwhile, our muscle tissue and joint membranes are protected in part by Oestrogen. It aids in the repair of our joints and contributes to the cell turnover process. The normal wear and strain on the joints are another factor that needs to be taken into account. Women who regularly exercise are more susceptible to joint wear and tear.

Nonetheless, we must acknowledge that Menopause is a period of life that happens naturally and it not actually the problem. The issue stems from how we have, up to this point, handled our bodies. Most of us use excessive amounts of alcohol, consume diets heavy in inflammatory foods like sugar, and fail to get adequate sleep. But the good thing is we can get rid of this pain by making changes in our lifestyles. Listen to this episode to find out more.

If, while listening to this podcast episode, you find that you now want to take better care and control of your life, why not join us on a FREE 5-day workshop called "The Secret to Thriving in Menopause" where I will share the exact steps you will take to thrive. Click HERE to register.

At the age of 47 Tania Dalton started to wonder what would happen if she lived a short life like her Dad, what would she miss out on? Tania decided that she was going to train to run a marathon even though she says she didn’t consider herself an athlete, didn’t like running and she wasn’t fast. Peri-menopause hit Tania quite hard with lots of symptoms such as hot flushes, weight gain and debilitating joint pain. But she didn’t give up. Tania completed the marathon in a faster time than she thought was possible.

But that wasn’t end of physical challenges for Tania, she then decided to complete a full Ironman event. It took her 3 years of training, while her menopause symptoms were getting worse due to the stress that she was putting her body under and then along came covid and threatened to derail everything that she had trained for. Tania kept training but she knew there was a chance that she wouldn’t make the cut off for the event or even be able to travel interstate as border closures came in virtually overnight. Listen to the podcast to hear what happened.

Tania’s story is one of grit and determination and she realised that she was more capable than she ever thought possible. Her message to all women is that you can do anything that you put your mind to and she believes that menopause makes you stronger.

If you are struggling with symptoms like Tania was or you have developed a meno-belly that you can’t seem to shift then why not join me for the free 5 Day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop that kicks off again soon, to register and to get access to a bonus free Understanding Hormones E-course click HERE.

This week is the final episode in the Understanding Hormones series and in the episode, I am talking about the hormone Insulin and specifically something that is known as Insulin Resistance. Insulin Resistance is one of the key factors when it comes to weight gain in peri-menopause and beyond. In this episode you will discover:

- What the role of insulin is in the body

- What insulin resistance is

- How the shift in your reproductive hormones can trigger insulin resistance

- The other factors that you need to consider when it comes to insulin resistance

- What you can do to reverse insulin resistance and get rid of your meno-belly

If you want a better understanding of why you put on weight as you move through peri-menopause and beyond why not download a copy of the free Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly Ebook. You will find further information about Insulin Resistance, Thyroid Concerns and other causes of your weight gain and most importantly you will discover the steps that you can take you reduce your meno-belly and your other symptoms that are often associated with menopause. To grab your copy click HERE.

In this week’s episode of Menopause Conversations, I have Clarissa Kristjansson as my guest. Clarissa is a Mindful and Menopause Expert, Author of the bestseller The Mindful Menopause and the host of Thriving Thru Menopause Podcast. Clarissa believes that life transitions give women the opportunity to explore life differently. In this episode we discuss the important topic of menopause in the workplace and how you can not only keep your job but thrive.

Some of the topics that we cover in this episode include:

- Why it is important to take a kinder approach to ourselves through peri-menopause and beyond

- How to shift from blaming and criticising ourselves to self-acceptance

- Clarissa shares her journey through menopause while she was in a high level corporate role

- Some mindbody practices to help you to manage your symptoms

To follow Clarissa and learn more about the work that she does visit

Website

Email

LinkedIn

Instagram

Podcast

If one of your concerns around menopause is weight gain that won’t shift regardless of what you do then why not grab a copy of my free ebook called The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly. Click HERE and get ready to start shifting your meno-belly.

It is time to get a better understanding of the role that the thyroid plays in some of t he symptoms that are often associated with menopause, particularly weight gain.  In this episode of Menopause Conversations, you will discover:

- The role your thyroid plays in keeping you healthy

- The specific nutrients you require for a healthy thyroid

- Why the liver plays such an important role in keeping your thyroid functioning well

- How you can support your liver through food and nutrition

Weight gain is one of the most common symptoms that women complain about when it comes to menopause and while the thyroid might be playing a role there are several other factors that are also impacting your weight and importantly your ability to lose the extra kilos.  This is why I have written an ebook called The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly, you can grab your free copy HERE.

Sandy Davies is the creator of the menopause balm called Happy Pause and is affectionately known as the Vag Queen. Sandy is on a mission to open the conversation around vaginal health as women age. Sandy is also full of life and vitality; this conversation was so much fun to have. Join us as Sandy shares her story around menopause, what her beliefs were and how much they have changed now that she has moved through her own menopause transition.

This menopause conversation goes in many different directions, just like menopause itself really. The underlying message from Sandy is that menopause and midlife are opportunities for women to connect to their inner wisdom and embrace their next stage of life. This is not a time of life to be held back by conditions such as vaginal dryness and whether you experience dryness or not every woman deserves to feel great ‘down there’.

Why not take the Happy Pause Challenge that Sandy speaks about in this episode, to learn more visit www.happypause.com.au.

You can also follow Sandy on Instagram and Facebook.

This is the next episode in the Understanding Menopause series and today I am chatting about the role that your liver plays in keeping your hormones balanced and you looking and feeling great. Most women don’t realise the importance of optimal liver function when it comes to balancing their hormones. This is something that most doctors don’t talk about probably because they don’t fully understand the link between your liver and your hormones, or they simply don’t think that it is important enough to talk about.

Most women understand that the liver is where you get rid of toxins from your body, but it also plays an important role in the manufacture of new hormones and the break down of old hormones. You could say that your liver is a manufacturing and re-cycling plant all in one. How amazing is that!

Some of the common signs that your liver is not functioning at an optimal level are:

- Weight gain

- Foggy headedness

- Skin rashes

- Digestive issues

- Hot flushes and night sweats

- Sleep problems

- Joint pain

- Hormone imbalances particularly oestrogen dominance

When you look at this list you might notice that there is a lot of similarity with the common symptoms associated with menopause.

One of the most common culprits that causes issues with stops your liver from functioning optimally is alcohol consumption. This is something that many women don’t want to hear, but unfortunately it is true. Your liver’s ability to breakdown and excrete alcohol declines as you go through your menopause transition, this results in many of the symptoms that you might be experiencing.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine liver meridian time is between 1-3am. If you find yourself waking at this time with night sweats, wanting to go to the bathroom, tossing and turning then this is a sign that your liver is not functioning optimally. Of course, alcohol is not the only culprit here, medications and exposure to toxic chemicals can also play a role.

If you think that your liver might be playing a role in your symptoms your first step is to consider your alcohol intake and any other chemicals that you might be exposing your body to. Eating a diet high in vegetables and lots of water will also help with your detoxification pathways. If weight gain is one of your most troubling concern about your menopause transition why not grab a free copy of my ebook The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-belly where I share the other reasons (besides your liver) that are playing a role in the unexplained weight gain. You can download your free copy HERE.

That’s all for this week and next week I will be back with another fantastic guest. Please leave a rating a review wherever you are listening to the podcast, this helps other women find this information. Or why not share the podcast with a friend who you think would like to learn more about what is happening with her body as she moves through her menopause transition. The more women who have this information the better the world will be.

From the very first moment of this podcast Rachel Lankester and I are talking about a controversial topic – the conversation around menopause that is currently taking place in the UK. With the push to get more and more women in the UK taking HRT and which has resulted in a shortage of HRT that has left many women feeling abandoned. Rachel jumps on her ‘soapbox’ to share her view on what is happening and her sadness that the dominant conversation around menopause is one of struggle and horror.

Rachel was diagnosed with early menopause when she was trying to fall pregnant, as you can imagine this was a complete shock to her especially when she didn’t really think there was much wrong with her hormones. After following some great advice around her diet and lifestyle Rachel was able to reverse the ‘early menopause’ diagnosis but sadly didn’t go on to fulfil her dream for another child. This experience sent this avid researcher on a mission to learn more about menopause and the midlife experience that many women go through.

Rachel has her own very successful podcast called Magnificent Midlife and she has some wonderful guests. Her podcast shares the stories of everyday women doing extraordinary things and it is her mission to share with as many women as possible that midlife is not a time to hide and suffer it is your time to shine because the world needs you now more than ever.

To learn more about Rachel visit

Magnificent Midlife Website

Magnificent Midlife Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Magnificent Midlife Book

Instagram: @magnificentmidlife

Facebook: @magnificentmidlife

It is easy to blame symptoms such as hot flashes, weight gain, moodiness or sleep problems on Menopause or even your hormones but neither are the “real” cause of your symptoms. In this episode of Menopause Conversations, I bust through the common myth about what the cause of your symptoms are. Menopause is not the cause because it is simply a stage of life and not a physical thing. Hormones are messengers, they receive messages from various cells and tell other cells what to do. Hormones simply react to the nutrient status of the body and other external inputs.

If you can’t blame menopause and hormones, then why is that sometimes you feel terrible as you move through your menopause transition? To find the answer you need to look below the hormones to what the hormones are reacting to. In this episode I share with you the 3 primary causes of all symptoms that are commonly associated with menopause and the best thing is that you can control each of these causes with your choices.

If you are struggling to get rid of your meno-belly why not download your free copy of The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly where I go even deeper into the reasons why you are putting weight on around your midline and most importantly what you can do to shift it. To download click HERE. 

Many women are looking for change as they move through mid-life, whether it is their job, their relationship or just the way in which they show up in the world. In this episode of the Menopause Conversations podcast I have Juliet Dyer (Leadership Coach) as my guest. This episode is a recording of a masterclass that was delivered to my embrace Inner Circle members. Some key points from Juliet:

- If you invest in yourself, you can create anything in life so long as you back yourself

- The difference between natural talents and strengths

- Traditionally we have looked to find out what is wrong so that we can “fix” it rather than focussing on our strengths and natural talents

- Everyone has a talent; it is the essence of who you are being

- To turn a talent into a strength

o Name your talent

o Claim your talent

o Seek ways to actively put your talent into practice until it becomes effortless

- Don’t ignore your weaknesses, be aware of them and own them and lean on your natural talents to overcome your weaknesses

To learn more about the work that Juliet does and to discover your own strengths and talents visit Juliet’s website.

There has been a lot of discussion recently about the need for HRT to manage symptoms associated with menopause but is this really your only option? Plus, I have heard that some Drs tell women that if they stay on the oral contraceptive pill that they will not go through menopause, this is simply not true. In this episode of the Menopause Conversations podcast I share some of the history around HRT as well as what really happens to your body when you take the OCP.

The topic of taking HRT can be a very divisive one with women sometimes being very rude to each other as they take one side or the other. This situation saddens me mainly because it is being driven by pharmaceutical companies who have a big agenda when it comes to the sale of HRT.

Prior to the controversy around HRT a few years ago, HRT was the highest sold prescription medicine in the world. Then the Women’s Health Initiative study stated that synthetic hormones increased the risk of a woman developing breast cancer. As you can imagine this put a big dent in the income of the large pharmaceutical companies, now they are back with a form of HRT which they claim is safer and there is a significant push to tell women that if they want a great quality of life in menopause the only way this can happen is if they take HRT (or MHT which it is now known as).

I share my opinion (and it is only my opinion) on the message that is being fed to women. I know that it is possible to move through the menopause transition with ease if you manage your stress, eat well and live well.

If you would like to learn how you can navigate this time of life with ease why not join the Menopause Conversations facebook group where I share lots of tips that will help you to thrive in peri-menopause and beyond. When you request to join the group and leave your email address I will send you a free Hormone Balancing Recipe book.

In this week’s episode of Menopause Conversations, I am chatting with Ange Sinclair the Digestive Detective all about gut health and hormones. Ange had lifelong issues with her gut but it wasn’t until she started to change the food that she was eating that she started to get improvements.

Some of the key points that we cover in this episode are:

- The importance of specific gut bacteria to metabolise oestrogen

- How we can manipulate our gut bacteria to influence our hormone levels

- The connection between poor gut health and conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis and breast cancer

- The difference between probiotics and prebiotic foods and why it is essential to include more prebiotic foods in our diet

- The importance of a diverse diet that is high in plant foods and includes all colours of the rainbow

- Switching your meals to be primarily vegetables with the meat as a ‘side’ or condiment portion

- Investigating some traditional diets and how our ancestors ate food

One of the key take aways that Ange shared is that it is important to make small consistent changes over time to allow your gut time to adjust. Making changes too quickly or too drastically can cause more gut issues.

To learn more about the work Ange does or to book a free 15 minute call with her to discuss your situation visit her website.

And you can follow Ange on Instagram.

In this episode of the Menopause Conversations Podcast I discuss some of the other hormones that are important to consider as you move through your menopause transition. It is not only oestrogen and progesterone that are impacting the way that you look and feel there are also other hormones at play. These hormones include

- Testosterone

- TSH, T3 and T4 (thyroid hormones)

- Cortisol (stress hormones)

- Ghrelin and Leptin (appetite and hunger hormones)

Understanding the role of the hormones in your health wellbeing will help you to know the correct steps that you can take to navigate your menopause transition with ease.

If you want to learn more about your hormones and more importantly what you can do to re-balance your hormones so that you can navigate your menopause transition with ease why not put yourself on the waitlist for the next round of the Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop. During this 5 day workshop not only will you discover the real cause of your symptoms and weight gain (and it is not all due to hormones), you will also have the opportunity to create your own personal blueprint that will allow you to Thrive in Menopause. The link to get onto the waitlist so that you are the first to be notified when the next workshop will be run is HERE.

In this week’s episode I am chatting with Erica Webb from the Self-Kind Hub. Erica is a mindful movement coach who uses Somatic Exercise, Yoga and Mat Pilates to support women to shift tension and reconnect with their body through a lens of self-kindness and curiosity. Erica’s approach to movement is one that centres simplicity and gently moving beyond our subconscious habits. She believes that movement doesn’t have to be complicated to ‘count’ and is a big fan of using bite-sized movements to bring more movement into the everyday. This conversation with Erica went in many different directions including

- The difference between exercise and kind movement

- Learning to trust that your body is doing exactly as it is meant to, even if that isn’t what we want it to be doing

- Taking responsibility for self- healing rather than outsourcing this to others

- How to use somatic movement to tune into your body and to heal your body

You can connect with Erica here:

Website 

Instagram

Podcast: SelfKind with Erica Webb

The SelfKind Hub 

Today is your last chance to join this round of the Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop where you will:

- Discover the role that your genes play in the way in which you will experience menopause

- Learn how your body shape holds the clues to losing your meno-belly

- Create your own personalised Menopause Blueprint with the steps that you need to navigate your menopause journey with ease

Register HERE.

A lot of the focus when it comes to menopause and changing hormones is around the decline in oestrogen levels, but for many women this is not the real issue. Many of the common symptoms that are associated with menopause are due to excess oestrogen levels in relation to progesterone.

In fact, even before women start their menopause transition high levels of oestrogen can be a major concern. Many women experience what is known as PMS (pre-menstrual symptoms) just before their period these are due to what is known as Oestrogen Dominance or higher than expected oestrogen levels.

Each month both Oestrogen and Progesterone cycle up and down and ideally both hormones are kept in relative balance with each other. As one hormone rise the other declines and vice versa as you move through your cycle.

Due to stress, diet and exposure to hormone disrupting toxins over 80% of women experience oestrogen dominance which results in symptoms such as:

· Bloating

· Weight gain

· Mood swings

· Heavy bleeding

· Insomnia

· Migraines

· Breast tenderness

In this episode I talk about the causes of oestrogen dominance and some of the steps that you can take to re-balance your hormones as you move through your menopause transition, so that your symptoms reduce or completely disappear.

If you would like to learn how you can re-balance your hormones, lose your meno-belly and reduce your symptoms join me for the free Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop that kicks off shortly. To register (or to put yourself on the waitlist) click HERE.

Do you experience low back pain or the inability to stand for extended periods of time? These are 2 of the signs of a weak core. In this week’s episode of Menopause Conversations, I am chatting with Peta Green who is a fitness expert who specialises in keeping women healthy and mobile as they age.

Many women I talk to tell me that they experience body and joint pain, and this limits their ability to be able to exercise and can often result in them putting on weight, which gives more pain and they exercise less and the cycle continues. Peta is on a mission to get women off this cycle or what she calls the “slippery slope”.

Peta focuses on 3 basic foundations of movement – stability, strength and power. You need all three of these foundations to be working together otherwise you will find your body out of balance and likely to be in pain or have limited mobility. We discussed these foundations in details particularly as I shared that whilst I was strong and had the power, my stability has not been the best in the past (due to a weak core) and this ended up putting more pressure on joints such as my hips, knees and ankles resulting in pain and a higher risk of injury.

The common signs of a weak core are:

- Low back pain

- Poor posture (this one is SO common these days)

- Issues with your balance

- Low endurance for standing

- Shortness of breath

- General weakness in the body

As you can see these signs are very common and it is likely that most of us have weak core muscles due to the type of life that we lead. It is important to note that just because you can do a heap of sit-ups doesn’t mean your core is strong. Your core muscles are not just your ab muscles.

Peta shared her favourite way to get a stronger core with Habit Stacking, which is doing some core strengthening exercises when you are doing other things that you normally do like cleaning your teeth, waiting for the kettle to boil plus more.

There was so much great information in this conversation with Peta, have a listen and let me know what your biggest ahha moment was or what small thing you are going to do to strengthen your core.

If you want to learn more about Peta or do her upcoming Stronger Core Stronger Body Challenge here are the links to everything

To join Stronger Core Stronger Body: https://bit.ly/StrongerCoreStrongerBody

Free Download:  The Never-Fail Way to Start Exercising When You Have Aches and Pains 

Strong Healthy Women COMMUNITY

Peta’s Facebook Page 

Women Over 50 Get Active & Healthy Group 

Peta LinkedIN

Strong Healthy Women Instagram

Strong Healthy Women Youtube

Peta Instagram

The second hormone that I will be discussing in this Understanding Hormone series is Oestrogen. Oestrogen is often also known as the nurturing hormone and the sense of “not giving a damn” about certain things as women age is often attributed to a woman’s decline in oestrogen.

Most of the focus around menopause hormones is on declining levels of oestrogen when in fact in the peri-menopause stage of life oestrogen levels are quite high as they fluctuate wildly form day to day. It is the up and down changes of oestrogen that is the trigger for many of the symptoms that women experience, and once women are post-menopausal and oestrogen levels settle at their new lower level most symptoms simply disappear. This is why it is important to support your hormone production via your adrenal glands (refer to the episode on progesterone for an explanation of this) during your peri-menopause years so that there is not such a big fluctuation in your oestrogen levels.

Role of Oestrogen includes:

*can potentially increase risk of cancer if oestrogen levels are too high.

When you look at the role of oestrogen in your body it might seem that when your levels drop that you lose the protection of the hormone and while this is true this doesn’t mean that you are doomed to a life with weak bones, heart issues and insulin resistance. This is where you have the opportunity to put yourself in control rather than relying on your hormones, most of the functions of oestrogen can be supported through healthy diet and lifestyle choices.

If you would like to discover the best way for you to navigate through your changing hormones and the impact this has on your body join me for the FREE 5-day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop which kicks off on May 8th. To register click HERE.

While my primary message is that you can navigate your menopause transition with ease, this wasn’t always my story when it comes to menopause. I have had those dark days when I had no idea what was happening to me, feeling frustrated because my body seemed to be breaking down and there was nothing, I could do to stop it. I have experienced the shame that comes with putting on weight even when I was eating a relatively healthy diet and I hid my body with the baggiest clothes that I could find. I have spent night after night trying to get to sleep but not being able to because of the amount of pain that I was in. My menopause transition wasn’t always easy, in fact it was often far from it.

But the pain, the shame, the sleepless nights sent me looking for answers. I knew that what I was going through wasn’t normal (even if it is common) I wanted to find a different way. I was lucky I did find a solution that resulted in me dropping the weight, getting rid of the pain, and sleeping through the night again. Once I found the solution that worked for me, I started sharing it with others and it worked for them as well.

In this episode I share with you my journey from the struggle of menopause to thriving in menopause.

If you want to learn more about how I was able to go from struggling to thriving join me for my free workshop – The Secret to Thriving in Menopause. Over 5 days I will share with you what I learnt when it came to losing my meno-belly (and other meno-weight), getting rid of the intense body pain and getting my life and health back again. You will have the opportunity to create your own personal menopause blueprint that you can use to navigate your menopause transition with ease.

Over the next few episodes, I am going to be sharing a series of presentations that I created which cover each of the different hormones and how they impact the way that you look and feel as you move through your menopause transition.  Today you will discover more about progesterone, it’s role each month and what happens as your progesterone levels start to decline.  In fact, progesterone is the first of your reproductive hormones to start to decline since you have a dwindling supply of viable eggs, and you will not be ovulating every month.

Role of progesterone

Low progesterone symptoms

If you want to discover how you can get control of your hormones and navigate your menopause transition with ease then why not join me for the free Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop that kicks off on May 9th.  To register click HERE. 

Infinite Love and Gratitude

Angela

This is a fun episode with Jai Harvey-Yin, where she shares with us her tips for living a “fabulosity” life.  First a little bit about Jai...

Jai has qualifications in business, beauty therapy, teaching, disability and so on one hand, she quite traditional. She also has a huge passion and empathy for the human spirit, in particular women. She has this drive to see women step into their own confidence, beauty and take control of their destinies.

Jai is also a reiki practitioner, light worker, an energy healer and spiritual student, so in her words “I’m quite woo-woo”.

In reality, Jai is just like you – everyone is at different stages of life. Jai is real, sometimes raw, sometimes a little chaotic, mostly calm, always honest, kind and most of all, loving. Her passion is to share her insights and unique spin on life with women who are drawn to work with her.

In this episode Jai give you permission to “strut your stuff” the best way that you know how.  She also shares the 3 steps to the Fabulosity Flip, which are:

1 – feel the feels

2 – find a temporary solution if you can

3 – flipit, find a way to see the situation as an opportunity rather than a disaster

Why not try the Fabulosity Flip in your life, you can start with something small, you can work up to bigger things in the future.  Try it and see if your life starts to look different.

Currently Jai’s signature program “Journey to Fabulosity” isn’t open, but should you wish to learn more, why not join her free facebook community called Gratitude, Attutide & Joyous Abundance with Jai [https://www.facebook.com/groups/gratitude.attitude.joyous.abundance.with.jai]

Or if you would like to experience an online Reiki Session with Jai visit her website at www.reikilovejai.com.

And Jai’s message to you is “remember you are unique, sparkle, sparkle”

If you have a friend who you think would benefit from a little bit of Jai’s Fabulosity in their life, share this episode with them.  I would also love a rating and review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you are listening to this episode) this means that more women can find the Menopause Conversations Podcast and learn more about their hormones, menopause and other things that impact women as they move through this time of life.

The link to download your free copy of The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly is – bit.ly/menobelly-ebook

Until next week don’t forget to Sparkle, Sparkle

Infinite Love and Gratitude

Angela

Many women think that menopause is a single event that happens when in fact it is a time of transition. This transition can take up to 12 years (maybe even longer) to occur and for most women this transition generally starts in their early 40s. This is when hormones gradually start to shift, and some symptoms might start to occur. It is important to note that every woman’s transition is different, so ages and symptoms could vary.

If you have had a full hysterectomy or some cancer treatments then you will likely skip all four stages and go straight to post-menopause.

The 4 phases are as follows:

Phase 1 – Very early peri-menopause

- Can start in late 30 to early 40s

- Generally last between 2-5 years

- Cycles can shorten to 21-26 days

- Less progesterone

- More oestrogen which can lead to heavier periods, increased period pain, migraines and sleep problems

Phase 2 – peri-menopause

- Starts around mid 40s

- Can last up to 5 years

- Your cycle can start to become more irregular

- Progesterone is lower, due to missed ovulation

- Oestrogen is fluctuating up and down, and when it drops it goes lower than before this can trigger worse hot flushes

Phase 3 – late peri-menopause transition

- This phase can last for up to 4 years

- This is when you start to miss periods and have cycles that can last over 60 days (note – cycle is time between bleed)

- Hot flushes and night sweats could get worse

- Breast pain should ease

- you might still have a couple of very heavy periods

Phase 4 – menopause transition

- This is the time when you are waiting to see if your last period was really your last

- This period is 12 months

- Symptoms should start to ease as oestrogen levels stabilise at a lower level

Once you haven’t had a period for 12 months you are now post-menopausal for the rest of your life.

In future episodes, I will share with you more about what happens with each of your specific hormones in each of these phases, starting with Progesterone.

If you are struggling with your weight since you started your menopause transition (regardless of which stage you are in) why not grab your free copy of the Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly ebook (https://angelacounsel.com/understanding_menopause_ebook/) and get a Bonus Invitation to an upcoming Menopause Workshop.

Join me as I chat with Fiona Keary from Style Liberation as she shares with us how you can find your own style personality so that you not only look good but you also feel comfortable in the clothes you are wearing.  Fiona recently chatted with my embrace Inner Circle members and she said that I could share this presentation with my wider community.  

In this presentation Fiona shares

- what is a style personality

- the 8 different personalities 

- how you might be a combination of more than one style personality

- once you know your personality what is the next step

Fiona has also shared her presentation slides with me if you are a visual person and need to see the different styles photos, here is the link where you can download the slides - https://angelacounsel.com/Style-Personality-Slides.pdf

If you are not sure about which Style Personality you are, you can do the Style Personality Quiz at https://www.styleliberation.com.au/style-personality-quiz

Fiona is also running some free webinars on March 16th and 17th, 2022 called The Wardrobe Revamp if you would like to register for either of these visit https://thewardroberevamp.com

I am back after 12 months break with a re-vamped podcast.  New name and new content.  As I re-launch this podcast it is International Women's Day and the theme for this year is #breakthebias and I thought that I would talk about the bias that happens in healthcare and medical research.  For too long women have been dismissed when it comes to what is considered complicated health problems.  The terms hysteria, attention seeking and emotional are words that are often used when women speak to their Drs about the way that they feel especially when standard testing doesn't reveal anything significant.  Unfortunately many Drs simply don't understand enough about women's hormones and particularly the changes that happen as women move through menopause.  It is time for this bias to stop!

I am passionate about educating women about how their hormones work because I believe with knowledge comes power and when women have a better understanding of the changes that are happening in their body they can make more informed choices rather than relying on the limited knowledge of someone else.  

If you want to continue this conversation why not join me in the Menopause Conversations facebook group where I share more information that will help you to navigate your menopause transition with ease.