YOGA FOR THE MENOPAUSE

There are at least 34 physical and psychological symptoms women may experience in perimenopause and into post menopause.  These include low mood, fatigue, irritability, overwhelm, aching and stiffness in the joints, hot flushes and brain fog….sometimes all at once! Of course, some women sail through the menopause, but for others this lifestage can be a real challenge, not least as it often coincides with a time of increased family responsibilities and work commitments, dialling up stress levels which in turn can make symptoms worse.  As part of a holistic toolbox, yoga can help ease you through the menopause transition, guiding you to your ‘second spring’ with positivity and a renewed sense of wellbeing.

Menopause Yoga, created by Petra Coveney, for which I am an accredited teacher, is different to regular yoga classes; it offers sequences of carefully curated poses drawn from hatha, yin and restorative yoga in combination with breathing techniques, affirmations and meditations designed to help you manage stress and symptoms caused by fluctuating hormones, especially the decline in oestrogen.

What to expect

The poses help to improve balance, coordination and flexibility as well as to build muscle strength and tone. Some are adapted or modified to bring a specific outcome, such as cooling, grounding or engaging the pelvic floor, while others, together with breathwork, create a sense of release and stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system to calm and relax mind and body.

Props such as yoga blocks and bolsters are used in the classes (if you’re joining from home and don’t have these, substitutions are suggested) and all abilities are welcome. You’ll leave with plenty of tips and ideas to take off the mat and use whenever needed.

Where

Classes are held at Salisbury Yoga Studio (£12) and online (£10) on Wednesdays from 6pm to 7pm.