what is menopause yoga?

Menopause Yoga (MY) is a specialized, research-based form of yoga practice tailored to help women manage the physical and emotional changes that occur during menopause. Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life characterized by the cessation of menstruation and a decline in hormone production, particularly estrogen. This transition can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia, and changes in bone density. Menopause Yoga aims to provide relief and support during this period by incorporating yoga poses, breathing techniques, and mindful meditation practices. 

Here's how it can be beneficial:

• hormonal balance: Yoga can help regulate hormone levels, reduce stress, and improve mood, which can be particularly helpful during the hormonal fluctuations of menopause.

• hot flash relief: Certain yoga poses, breathing exercises and cognitive behavioural techniques can help manage hot flashes and reduce their frequency and intensity.

• stress reduction: Menopause can be a stressful period due to the physical and emotional changes it brings. Yoga's focus on relaxation and mindfulness can help manage stress and anxiety.

• improved sleep: Insomnia and sleep disturbances are common during menopause. Yoga practices, especially relaxation and meditation techniques, can help improve sleep quality.

• weight management: Menopause often leads to weight gain. Yoga can help with weight management by helping to maintain muscle mass and reducing the stress hormones that assist with weight gain.

• bone health: As estrogen levels decline, bone density can decrease. Weight-bearing yoga poses can help maintain and improve bone health.

• flexibility and strength: Menopause Yoga includes a variety of poses that can improve flexibility and strength, which can be important for overall physical well-being.

• emotional well-being: Yoga's focus on mindfulness and meditation can help with mood swings and emotional stability during menopause.

I understand the unique needs of people going through this life phase. Being in the midst of my transformation myself, I have experienced so many of the symptoms associated with the menopause. With this lived experience in mind, as well as my studies of the menopause, I adapt yoga sequences to address the specific symptoms and challenges associated with menopause.

Before beginning Menopause Yoga or any new exercise program, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have other underlying health conditions or concerns. 

here are some resources for you:

Canadian Menopause Society

https://www.sigmamenopause.com/

Canadian Foundation for Women’s Health

https://cfwh.org/

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada

https://www.sogc.org//

https://www.menopauseandu.ca/

The Menopause Foundation of Canada

https://menopausefoundationcanada.ca/

The North American Menopause Society

www.menopause.org 

Menopause Management Tools

https://mq6.ca/for-women/

Prosper Menopause Clinic (Virtual)

https://prospermenopause.ca/

Menopause Clinic - The Ottawa Hospital

https://www.ottawahospital.on.ca/en/clinical-services/deptpgrmcs/clinics-and-services/menopause-clinic/

Liberty Women’s Health

https://www.libertywomenshealth.ca/menopause-treatment-ottawa

Femade

https://www.femade.ca/menopause

Green Street Pharmasave

https://greenstreetpharmasave.com/services/menopause-and-womens-health-consultations/

Dr. Ardelle Piper

https://bywardfht.ca/our-services/menopause-clinic/

Dawdy Naturopathic Clinic

https://dawdynaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-menopause-treatments-supplements/

Balance App

https://www.balance-menopause.com/balance-app/