Rethinking Menopause: A Naturopathic Approach
In modern Western medicine, menopause is often viewed as an entirely negative stage of life that women must simply suffer through. But what if there was a different way to approach this significant life phase? What if, instead of heralding the slow decline into senescence, menopause was something to be celebrated? In this blog post, we'll explore the spiritual, cultural, and naturopathic perspectives on menopause - and why it doesn’t need to be a negative experience - as well as highlighting naturopathic strategies for navigating this transformative time with vitality and resilience.
Understanding Menopause Through a Naturopathic Lens
Modern Western medicine often holds quite a medicalised view of menopause, but as naturopaths we see things differently. Naturopathy sees menopause not as a problem that needs fixing, but as a natural and normal phase of life, much like puberty. Menopause is not a problem in the body; it is simply the end of fertility and the reproductive years, and the beginning of a new chapter. It is a time of transition. The body undergoes profound hormonal changes on a physical level, and on an energetic and spiritual level this can be a time when many women come into their own power. In many cultures menopause is seen as a positive transition, a time when women are able to turn inwards and nourish themselves physically and spiritually; they become Wise Women.
Positive Cultural Perspectives of Menopause
Cultural understandings and approaches to menopause can influence how we as individuals experience this phase. While Western women may tend to approach menopause with dread of impending symptoms, women from other cultures can have more positive perspectives. In many indigenous cultures, menopause is celebrated as a time of wisdom and spiritual empowerment. Elder women are revered as keepers of traditional knowledge and spiritual guardians, playing vital roles in their communities as healers, storytellers, and guides.
Spiritual Aspects of Menopause
The menopausal transition is an experience that goes beyond the physical changes associated with the cessation of menstruation. It encompasses a spectrum of emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions, representing a significant milestone in a woman's life journey. Menopause can be viewed not just as a biological event but as a pivotal phase imbued with spiritual significance and symbolic meaning. In contemporary Western societies, there is a growing movement to reclaim the spiritual aspects of menopause and challenge negative stereotypes associated with ageing and menopausal symptoms. Women are increasingly exploring holistic approaches to the perimenopausal phase that integrate mind, body, and spirit, seeking support from alternative therapies, women's circles, and spiritual practices.
Transition and Transformation
Menopause is a time of transition and transformation, akin to a spiritual awakening or rebirth. It marks the end of one chapter of life and the beginning of another, prompting reflection, introspection, and a deeper exploration of one's purpose and identity. Now can be a time when women take on new roles in many aspects of their life, or approach old roles with renewed vigour and from a place of empowerment and authority.
Inner Wisdom and Intuition
Many spiritual traditions emphasise the cultivation of inner wisdom and intuition, qualities that are believed to become heightened during menopause. As hormonal shifts occur, women may experience heightened intuition, clarity of purpose, and a deeper connection to their inner selves and spiritual essence. Now is a time to look within, to examine your own inner knowledge and intuition through meditative practices and deep inner work.
Reclaiming Feminine Power
In some cultures, menopause is celebrated as a time when women reclaim their feminine power and wisdom. It's seen as a rite of passage that bestows women with newfound strength, confidence, and resilience, allowing them to step into their power, a time to take on leadership roles and mentor the next generation.
Honouring the Divine Feminine
Menopause is often associated with the archetype of the "wise woman" or the "crone," symbolising the wisdom, maturity, and spiritual insight that comes with age. In many spiritual traditions, there is a deep reverence for the divine feminine aspect of menopause, honouring the cyclical nature of life and the interconnectedness of all beings. Goddesses such as Hecate, Kali, and Cerridwen are revered as symbols of wisdom, transformation, and renewal, embodying the cyclical nature of life and the power of creation and destruction. Croning rituals at this time honour the transition from “mother” to “crone”, and help to celebrate the joy of ageing.
Letting Go and Surrender
Menopause can be a time of letting go of past roles, expectations, and societal norms. It invites you to surrender to the natural rhythms of life, embracing change with grace and acceptance. By releasing attachments to youth and fertility, women may experience a great sense of liberation and renewed spiritual connection.
Naturopathic Strategies for Navigating Menopause
Menopause is a time during which the body undergoes huge hormonal changes, including a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, and on an energetic level, we move out of the mother phase and into the power of the Wise Woman or “crone”. While these hormonal shifts can lead to symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness, they are not inherently pathological. Instead, they represent the body's natural response to shifting hormonal dynamics. A qualified naturopath can help you through this liminal phase by supporting the natural rhythms and shifting hormonal balance within your body, without trying to interfere with this natural transition. Herbs, nutritional supplements, dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as mindfulness and mind-body practices can all help you to navigate this phase in a more positive way. Naturopaths can also help you to navigate your body’s changing nutrition and healthcare needs for the longer term.
Herbal Medicine
Our plant allies are ancient supporters for the menopause journey. Herbs such as black cohosh, dong quai, red clover, and sage can help to support various menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes, night sweats, and mood swings. These herbs contain constituents such as phytoestrogens, which help to balance hormones and ease the hormonal fluctuations of perimenopause.
Nutrition and Lifestyle Modifications
Diet and lifestyle play a crucial role in supporting hormonal balance and overall well-being during perimenopause. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide essential nutrients and support hormonal health. Certain nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D are particularly important for bone health, which may become compromised during menopause due to reduced oestrogen. Regular exercise, stress reduction techniques such as yoga and meditation, and adequate sleep can also help alleviate menopausal symptoms and promote overall vitality.
Mind-Body Therapies
Now is definitely a time to keep coming back to your body. Honour your body for where it is at right now through this phase. Ways to connect with your body include: exercise and physical movement, yoga, pilates, massage, and even Reiki. Using stress management strategies such as mindfulness meditation can also be of immense help, as stress can exacerbate perimenopausal symptoms.
Embracing the Wisdom of Menopause
Beyond symptom management, now is a time to explore your inner Wise Woman, and to embrace the wisdom and transformative potential of menopause. It is a time for self-reflection, self-care, and self-discovery, as you transition into a new phase of life. This might look like:
Journalling
Mindfulness meditation, guided meditations
Practicing self compassion and giving yourself grace
Checking in with your body, your symptoms and your feelings
Are you entering the journey of perimenopause and looking for support? Let’s work together. To find out more about my services or to book your initial consultation, book here.
About the Author
Lizzie Stow is a clinical naturopath from Newcastle, Australia.
To find out more about Lizzie, click here.
Book an appointment with Lizzie click here.
References
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