Michelle is joined by Caryn Clark, a menopause champion and workplace advocate, whose own experience of menopause put her on a mission to support menopausal women in business. After her successful career was impacted due to unrecognised menopause symptoms, Caryn created the MENO Positive method; a groundbreaking approach to workplace menopause support.

Discover how she's challenging the shocking statistic that only 10% of businesses have formal menopause policies and sharing practical solutions to create more supportive, productive and inclusive workplaces for the 75% of women whose work is affected by menopause symptoms.

Caryn Reveals

• Why undiagnosed menopause symptoms forced her to quit her job.
• How her recovery and transformation began
• Her MENO Positive method and what it focuses on
• Why HRT alone isn't a complete solution
• Why workplace menopause support is a financial no brainer for companies
• Why personalised approaches and basic awareness are crucial in workplace menopausal support
• How businesses can create safe points of contact for women experiencing symptoms
• Why embracing midlife and menopause can be transformative rather than a time of limitation

 

BEST MOMENTS

"Menopause should be mainstream and luckily we're getting there, the quote of one in 10 companies only having menopause policies is improving week by week, month by month." 

"It's awareness, the solutions are easy. “

"One in 10 women lose their job due to menopause, yet shockingly, only 10% of businesses have a formal menopause policy.”

"Menopause for you is an obligation, but it's also an opportunity. It's an obligation because you have the obligation to look after the wellbeing of your staff." 

"As you hit your late forties and early fifties, you are not worse at your job. You're actually better, you've got so much experience, you've got so much knowledge." 

"I think in the next five or 10 years, it'll be more common to have a menopause policy than not to have a menopause policy."

 

 

EPISODE RESOURCES

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/caryn-clarke-bemeno-positive/

 

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a 

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal 

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag 

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk 

In this episode, Michelle explores the connection between menopause and foot pain, focusing on conditions like plantar fasciitis and structural changes in the feet. Michelle shares her knowledge on how hormonal shifts during menopause can lead to issues in your feet including pain. Michelle also gives practical tips to manage foot pain and empowers women to take control of their foot health during menopause, encouraging open discussions about all symptoms that can arise during this life transition.

Michelle Reveals

• Why menopause can lead to plantar fasciitis
• How to choose the right shoes for foot pain
• Practical tips to manage foot pain
• Why she is raising awareness about the connection between menopause and foot pain
• How we can all take control of our health during menopause

BEST MOMENTS

"Menopause can also affect your feet. One unexpected and often overlooked issue is plantar fasciitis."

"As connective tissue weakens, the arches may collapse or become less pronounced."

"Understanding how hormonal shifts affect our bodies empowers us to take control of our health."

"Suffering is optional."

"By staying informed about how declining estrogen impacts connective tissue, you can manage these symptoms effectively."

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a 

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal 

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag 

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk 

In this episode, Michelle sits down with Emma Henry and Judith Lightfoot, two experienced nurses who share their personal journeys through menopause. They reflect on the limited training and knowledge they had about menopause during their nursing careers, highlighting the shocking lack of education even among health professionals. They delve into the emotional and psychological impacts of menopause, including the challenges of managing stress, relationships, and mental health. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Many health professionals, including nurses, reported having limited training and understanding of menopause, often only being aware of basic symptoms like hot flushes and the cessation of periods. This lack of education can lead to inadequate support for patients experiencing menopause.

• Both Emma and Judith emphasise the significance of educating oneself about menopause. They encouraged seeking out books, courses, and support groups to better understand the transition and advocate for one's health.

• They highlight that menopause can exacerbate mental health issues, with women being more predisposed to anxiety and depression during this time. Emma and Judith share personal experiences of feeling overwhelmed and the importance of recognizing hormonal changes as a contributing factor.

• Emma introduced EFT as a therapeutic approach that helps calm the nervous system and address emotional issues without the use of needles. Both Emma and Judith shared positive experiences with EFT, noting its effectiveness in managing anxiety and stress related to menopause.

• The transition through menopause can significantly affect family dynamics. Both Emma and Judith discuss the importance of open communication with family members, including children and partners, about the changes they are experiencing, which can foster understanding and support within the family.

BEST MOMENTS

"I just knew that at some stage you went through menopause, all I thought about it was hot flushes and that was about it."

"You kind of felt like you were going to be on your own. Good luck with that."

"It feels a bit like this: if you have any kind of trauma-based stuff that's happened to you and you kind of push it down, at some point, that will come back to you."

"Menopause can happen at any age, we should be teaching teenagers about menopause."

"Educate yourself as much as you possibly can. Talk to women, go and join groups."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075966822830 

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a 

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal 

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag 

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk 

In this enlightening episode, Michelle welcomes the remarkable Maya Mendoza, an intuitive therapist and spiritual psychologist with over 45 years of experience, to the show. Maya shares her extraordinary journey, including a near-death experience that shaped her unique approach to healing and self-discovery. She delves into the profound connection between emotional well-being and menopausal symptoms, exploring how early life experiences can impact health during this transition. Maya introduces her concept of emotional alchemy, emphasising the importance of reframing perspectives on menopause as a transformative experience rather than a negative one.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Emotional experiences, particularly those stemming from early childhood, significantly impact women's health during menopause. Women who have faced heavy emotional burdens may experience more severe menopausal symptoms due to repressed emotions affecting their physical health.

• Emotional alchemy involves transforming negative emotions into positive energy by reframing one's perspective. Instead of focusing on problems, individuals can learn to process emotions through visualisation and metaphor, allowing for healing and a shift in emotional state.

• Intuition plays a crucial role in navigating menopause. It helps individuals seek the right support and make informed decisions about symptom management, whether through HRT, herbs, or other holistic practices.

• Understanding the menopause process is vital. Women are encouraged to educate themselves about their bodies and the changes they will experience, as this knowledge can reduce resistance and denial, leading to a smoother transition.

• Menopause can be a transformative phase rather than a negative one. Embracing the changes can lead to personal growth, increased self-awareness, and a shift in priorities, allowing women to focus on their own needs and desires.

BEST MOMENTS

"I got to really experience other lifetimes and other ways of being and other planets, which may sound completely mad."

"When we have fluttered, heavy emotional experiences. we end up with this heaviness of not being believed and guilt for speaking up." 

"Emotional alchemy is taking what you have, where it is now in its entirety, and then placing yourself in a different perspective."

"I think denial, resistance cause the biggest problems."

"You don't have to suffer with menopause symptoms, there's lots of different variants that we can address."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.linkedin.com/in/mayamendoza  

https://www.youtube.com/mayamendoza

FREE deep relaxation video
https://youtu.be/olDkSTSVFJw?si=7mCCGHaEZ2sUKKw3A

This gentle soundtrack and calming voice of Maya Mendoza will guide you away from stress and into relaxation as the words and music wash over you and lull you into deep physical and mental comfort.

https://www.facebook.com/mendoza.maya

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a 

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal 

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag 

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk 

In this episode, Michelle welcomes Dina Shale to the podcast, a pioneer in equine facilitated learning, to discuss the transformative power of horses in managing menopause and perimenopause. Dina shares her personal journey through menopause, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges she faced and how her innovative retreats have helped women reconnect with nature and themselves. Dina also provides insights into grounding techniques, the importance of understanding the nervous system, and how to overcome fears associated with horses. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Horses serve as emotional regulators and can help individuals reconnect with their emotions, instincts, and sense of self, which is particularly beneficial for women navigating menopause.

• Engaging with horses in a round pen setting allows participants to practice grounding techniques, helping them to stay present and manage their nervous system, which is crucial for emotional well-being during menopause.

• Integrating equine therapy with other menopause management strategies, such as lifestyle changes and hormone therapy, can provide a comprehensive approach to managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.

• The approach and retreat method is used to help individuals who may be fearful of horses, allowing them to gradually build confidence and comfort without overwhelming their nervous system.

• Continuous learning and self-education are emphasised as essential tools for overcoming challenges during menopause, enabling individuals to make informed choices and improve their quality of life.

BEST MOMENTS

"Horses are what we call emotional regulators. They listen to their instincts, their emotions, and they are their guiding light of how to survive."

"When you start to connect with your feelings, your emotions, and feel it in the same way that horses do, then you have a tool that will serve you for the rest of your life."

"The body keeps the score. It remembers everything that's happened from the past. If you listen to it, you can heal it and move on."

"I think one thing I've definitely found during this journey is the common denominator is listen to our body, listen to ourselves, learn about ourselves."

"Bringing that into the moment and actually being able to feel that emotion is essential because you can't heal or why you don't know anything about your body."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://www.thewayofthehorse.co.uk/ 

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a 

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal 

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag 

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk 

In this episode, Michelle speaks with Dr. Carys Sonnenberg, a trailblazer in menopause care, who shares her extensive knowledge and holistic approach to women's health during the menopause transition. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Sonnenberg discusses crucial topics such as the often-overlooked aspects of perimenopause, the evolution of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) since the Women's Health Initiative study, and the broader benefits of progesterone. She emphasises the importance of individualised care, addressing lifestyle factors, and the role of nutrition in managing menopause symptoms.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Menopause care should encompass not just hormonal treatments but also lifestyle factors, including diet, exercise, and mental health. A comprehensive approach considers the whole woman, addressing physical, emotional, and lifestyle aspects.

• Each woman's experience with menopause is unique, and treatment should be tailored to individual needs. Factors such as medical history, family history, and lifestyle must be considered when discussing options like hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

• The perception of HRT has evolved since the Women's Health Initiative study. While there are risks associated with HRT, particularly concerning breast cancer, the benefits often outweigh the risks for many women under 65. It's crucial for women to have informed discussions with healthcare providers about their specific situations.

• Diet plays a significant role in managing menopause symptoms. Emphasizing a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins, along with adequate hydration and exercise, can help improve overall health and alleviate symptoms.

• Mental health symptoms, such as anxiety and brain fog, are common during perimenopause and menopause. Understanding that these changes are part of the hormonal journey can empower women to seek appropriate support and treatment, rather than feeling isolated or confused about their experiences.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think we have a way in conventional medicine, but we need to collaborate more with other specialties, particularly lifestyle medicine."

"It's really important to understand what the benefits and the risks and any potential side effects are to that woman, because we all come in with different types of bodies."

"The Women's Health Initiative study in 2002 obviously caused a widespread panic about HRT because the results were leaked before they were properly reviewed."

"It's a risk-benefit chat every year that you're taking it. It shouldn't be someone that is told there is never anything that we can do."

GUEST SOCIALS

Dr Carys Sonnenburg (Web: www.rowenahealth.co.uk

Contact: [email protected]

Instagram: @drcaryssonnenberg

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/drcaryssonnenberg

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrCarysSonnenberg/

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a 

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal 

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag 

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk 

In today's episode, Michelle speaks with Julie Marks, a breast cancer survivor and founder of the support group 'Treasure Chests'. After her diagnosis in January 2021, Julie transformed her challenging experience into a powerful community resource, connecting with others facing similar battles. She shares her emotional journey, the importance of community support, and the intersection of cancer treatment and menopause. Julie also discusses her role as Office Manager at Norfolk Integrated Housing and Community Support Service, where she has implemented menopause training workshops for staff, advocating for awareness in the workplace.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• After her breast cancer diagnosis, Julie Marks created a support group called Treasure Chests, which has grown to nearly 70 members. This community provides a vital space for individuals to share experiences, gain confidence, and support one another through their cancer journeys.

• Julie experienced severe menopause symptoms, including intense hot flashes and brain fog, while undergoing cancer treatment. She emphasises the importance of being informed about potential side effects of hormone therapies and encourages open discussions about these challenges.

• As the Office Manager for Norfolk Integrated Housing and Community Support Service, Julie implemented menopause training workshops for her staff. This initiative aims to educate both female and male employees about menopause, fostering a supportive work environment.

• Julie highlights the significance of open communication regarding health challenges. By discussing symptoms and experiences with friends, family, and colleagues, individuals can reduce feelings of isolation and receive the support they need.

• Julie hopes to expand the reach of Treasure Chests and create additional support networks for caregivers and family members of cancer patients. She also advocates for lowering the breast cancer screening age, recognising the increasing number of younger individuals affected by the disease.

BEST MOMENTS

"Cancer, as we know, affects everybody regardless of age, background. So we've got nearly 70 members now. We have an online community. Yeah, it's been very rewarding."

"It's not telling people you're going to go through this, but if you've got at least that, you know, it's like reading side effects on most medications."

"The biggest buzz I get is from supporting other people and seeing those people come in that have lost their confidence, and seeing those people change over the weeks."

"I think it's about learning to take ownership and control over yourself. And ultimately, it's your body, you make that decision."

"Communication is the biggest, biggest way to help yourself because if those around you aren't aware, if you're trying to hide it, often you can come across as being moody."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

 https://treasured-chests.co.uk/

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a 

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal 

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag 

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk 

In today's episode, Michelle engages in a heartfelt conversation with Eleri Kossler, a remarkable entrepreneur and former corporate lawyer, who shares her transformative journey through menopause. Eleri opens up about her personal struggles with perimenopause, including debilitating symptoms like depression, lethargy, and weight gain, and discusses the lack of support and understanding she faced. As the founder of Love Entrepreneurs and Silvertree, she emphasises the importance of reinvention and resilience, offering practical advice and insights for managing menopause symptoms.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The journey through menopause can be profoundly challenging, with symptoms such as extreme lethargy, depression, and anxiety affecting daily life and work performance. It's important to recognise that these experiences can vary significantly among women.

• Open discussions about menopause are crucial for breaking the stigma surrounding it. Sharing experiences can help raise awareness and foster understanding among partners, families, and workplaces.

• Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet and making lifestyle changes, such as reducing sugar intake, can significantly alleviate menopause symptoms. Personal responsibility for health choices is emphasised as a key factor in managing symptoms.

• There is a call for improved understanding and treatment options for menopause within the medical community. Many women feel that their symptoms are not adequately addressed by traditional medical approaches, highlighting the need for more comprehensive care.

• Eleri encourages employers to adopt flexible working arrangements to accommodate the needs of women experiencing menopause. This includes allowing for varied work hours and creating supportive environments that recognize the impact of menopause on productivity and well-being.

BEST MOMENTS

"I went from somebody that could function and work 12 hours a day with lots of energy to somebody that had to go to bed every two hours."

"I think men are realising now that these were economic losses for the business."

"I had to just accept it and give myself permission to just go to sleep if I needed to."

"If this had happened to men, there'd be, you know, no question there'd be a solution."

"I think we need to start thinking more about how we're going to holistically work this."

GUEST LINKS

https://growinspires.org/silvatree    

http://love-entrepreneurs.com/

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a 

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal 

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag 

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk 

In this episode, Michelle explores the often-overlooked symptom of travel anxiety during menopause. Drawing from her personal experiences, Michelle shares how her confidence behind the wheel diminished unexpectedly, linking this change to hormonal fluctuations associated with perimenopause. She discusses the physiological reasons behind increased anxiety, particularly the decline in progesterone, and how it can manifest in various travel-related fears, such as driving at night or flying. The episode offers practical strategies for managing this anxiety, including taking small steps, practising mindfulness, and seeking support from others.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Many women experience sudden travel-related anxiety during menopause, affecting their confidence in driving, flying, and using public transport.

• The decline in hormone levels, particularly progesterone, during perimenopause and menopause can lead to increased anxiety and fear in situations that were previously comfortable.

• Sharing experiences with other women reveals that travel anxiety is a widespread issue, with many facing similar fears, such as avoiding night driving or public transport.

• Effective ways to manage travel anxiety include acknowledging the feelings, taking gradual steps to regain confidence, practising mindfulness and breathing exercises, discussing experiences with others, and seeking professional help if necessary.

• Talking about menopause symptoms, including travel anxiety, is crucial for support and validation, helping women realise they are not alone in their experiences.

BEST MOMENTS

"I thought maybe it was just a fluke or that I'd suddenly developed this irrational fear."

"When I started talking to other women about my experience, I found out just how common this issue is."

"As we go through perimenopause and menopause, our hormone levels decline, particularly progesterone."

"It's easy to feel like you're losing your confidence or that something's wrong with you."

"If the anxiety becomes overwhelming or starts to interfere with your day-to-day life, it might be worth speaking to a therapist or a counsellor."

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a 

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal 

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag 

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk 

In this episode, Michelle speaks with Dr. Debs Eastwood, a pioneering medical doctor and co-founder of Elixir Holistic Health. With a rich background in traditional medicine, including anaesthesia and stem cell research, Dr. Eastwood shares her transformative journey into holistic health, driven by personal experiences and a desire to revolutionise wellness. They delve into the complexities of menopause, exploring how holistic therapies can complement conventional treatments and improve women's health. Dr. Eastwood emphasises the importance of self-awareness, movement, and sleep, while also discussing the creation of a groundbreaking database of holistic practitioners. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Traditional medicine has its place, especially in acute situations, but a holistic approach can provide additional benefits for managing symptoms, particularly during menopause. This includes exploring natural remedies and lifestyle changes alongside conventional treatments.

• Women should develop a strong self-awareness of their bodies and listen to their needs, especially regarding sleep, movement, and nutrition. Recognising when to rest and when to be active can significantly improve overall well-being during menopause.

• Open conversations about menopause among colleagues, friends, and family can foster understanding and support. Sharing experiences and remedies can create a sense of camaraderie and help women feel less isolated in their struggles.

• Diet and lifestyle choices play a crucial role in managing menopause symptoms. Regular movement, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are fundamental to maintaining hormonal balance and overall health.

• There is a significant gap in menopause education among healthcare professionals. Increased training and awareness about menopause can lead to better support for women experiencing symptoms, ultimately improving their quality of life.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think traditional medicine has a place, but for managing pain symptoms, I want something more natural and in tune with my body's rhythms."

"I now feel that there are so many other ways to address problems with regard to the way your wretched hormones make you feel."

"It's nice to sort of get a variety of ideas so that you can try new things and see if it works for you."

"A red flag is people that have no lived experience of it and obviously no training."

"If you feel exhausted by nine o'clock at night, listen to your body. Go to bed at nine o'clock."

GUEST RESOURCES

https://www.linkedin.com/in/debs-eastwood-31309b112

https://www.facebook.com/debby.eastwood

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

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