Managing Menopause with Pilates and Yoga

 

Have you heard about the studies showing the positive impact of yoga and pilates for menopause?

 

The hormonal changes associated with menopause, which  begins for most women between the ages of 45 and 55, can cause a range of symptoms such as:

  • Hot flashes and night sweats;

  • Insomnia and/or fatigue;

  • Mood swings;

  • Weight gain, particularly around the stomach (the dreaded “middle aged spread”);

  • Difficulties with concentration;

  • Sexual dysfunction.

 

Around 85% of women will experience symptoms during the “change of life”, which can linger for anywhere between five to seven years, and sometimes even for as long as fifteen years.

 

Relieving the Symptoms of Menopause Naturally

 

In many cases, the symptoms of menopause may be managed by simple lifestyle measures such as improving diet, avoiding excess alcohol or caffeine, not smoking, and dressing in layers. (It’s not always easy to do this on your own though - if you’d like some support, check out our Menopause Mind and Body Reset Program!)

 

Perhaps one of the most under-rated natural treatments for menopause symptoms however, is regular exercise like pilates or yoga.

 

Pilates for Menopause

 

While pilates offers benefits for all ages – from core strength and flexibility for better posture and balance, to relieving muscle stress and tension – it is also helpful for many common menopause symptoms.

 

One study conducted in 2016 found that participants in an 8 week pilates exercise program experienced less hot flushes and night sweats. Meanwhile, other research indicates that regular pilates practice helps with issues such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, and poor sleep quality.

 

Pilates has also been shown to slow down the loss of bone mineral density in women of menopausal age, consequently preventing osteoporosis.

 

One thing that both pilates and yoga have in common is a focus on deep breathing, which reduces stress and induces a feeling of calm, as well as increasing blood and oxygen flow to the brain which assists with improving focus, attention and memory.

 

 
 

Yoga and Menopause

 

While there are many different yoga styles and types, they all involve physical poses, the regulating of breathing and mindfulness techniques. 

 

The powerful combination of exercise and meditation in one activity maximises endorphins (the “feel good” chemicals in the brain), promotes better sleep and reduces irritability. 

 

Science affirms the positive benefits of yoga, with research showing that it is particularly effective for the psychological symptoms of menopause such as mood swings and anxiety.

 

Try Yoga and Pilates for Menopause at New Dawn Cleveland!

 

Come and discover the rich rewards of yoga and pilates for menopause for yourself – your first session at New Dawn Pilates and Yoga Cleveland, is free!

 

To find out more, email admin@newdawnpilates.com or reserve your spot using our online booking system.

Dawn x

 
JC