Written by Michelle Kenny
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the unique experiences and challenges women face throughout their lives. One significant aspect that has often been shrouded in silence but is now gaining recognition and discussion is menopause.
It’s never too early to start thinking about menopause and its potential effects on your body. In fact, introducing exercise into your routine long before you reach perimenopause—the transitional stage leading to menopause—can have a transformative impact on how you experience these later years of life.
Exercise isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good from the inside out. And when it comes to menopause, the benefits of regular physical activity are manifold:
Managing Menopausal Symptoms: Exercise has been shown to alleviate many of the symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue. By releasing endorphins and regulating hormone levels, exercise can help women feel more balanced and in control of their bodies during this tumultuous time.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: As metabolism tends to slow down during menopause, weight gain can become a common concern. However, regular exercise can counteract this by boosting metabolism and helping women maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related health issues.
Building Muscle Mass: Strength training exercises, such as resistance training, are particularly beneficial during menopause. Not only do they help build and maintain muscle mass, but they also strengthen bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis—a common concern for postmenopausal women.
Reducing Stress and Improving Mental Wellbeing: Exercise is a powerful stress reliever, promoting the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine that boost mood and alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression.
Incorporating activities like yoga and Pilates into your routine can also enhance relaxation and mindfulness, further improving mental wellbeing.
Improving Sleep Patterns: Many women experience disruptions in their sleep patterns during menopause, often due to night sweats and hormonal fluctuations. Regular exercise can help regulate sleep cycles, leading to more restful and rejuvenating sleep.
Enhancing Mobility with Age: As we age, maintaining flexibility and mobility becomes increasingly important for overall health and independence. By incorporating cardio and flexibility exercises into your routine, you can improve balance, coordination, and range of motion, allowing you to stay active and engaged in life’s activities.
The beauty of exercise is that it’s never too late to start reaping its benefits. Whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, making positive changes to your lifestyle can have a profound impact on your health and wellbeing. So, if you haven’t already, why not take this International Women’s Day as an opportunity to prioritise your health and introduce exercise into your daily routine?
Remember, as women, we have the power to shape our own experiences and rewrite the narrative surrounding menopause. By embracing exercise as a tool for empowerment and self-care, we can navigate this transition with strength, resilience, and vitality. Your body—and your future self—will thank you for it.