To honour International Women's Day, two practitioners from wellbeing business community, Feel Good Norfolk, share insights into how women can enhance their wellbeing at this time of year

With spring on the horizon our attention can start to turn toward exciting new projects.

We may like to honour this season by spending more time outside.

Seasonal living allows us to live optimally, making the best of what is available and investing energy in harmony with the environment. 

So what of the "inner seasons" of the feminine body?

Registered Nurse and Womens Hormone Health Practitioner, Alice Free, explains: “When we learn about the inner seasons we realise the futility of forcing productivity at a time that is biologically programmed for rest. We avoid burnout and illness because we live in alignment with our physiology.”

How can we start living in harmony with the wisdom of our body?

"Tracking your cycle in conjunction with the inner seasons framework (outlined below) is a powerful combination of self care, performance optimisation and burnout prevention," says Alice.

Alice guides us through the inner seasons framework 

"The cycle begins with our very own winter. This is dominated by menstruation, mood tends to be low and we can become emotional. Intuition increases and we become reflective.

"During spring our body is preparing for ovulation. Our energy increases and we turn our attention to new projects, this is a time of strategy and planning, we become more sociable.

"The summer phase is dominated by ovulation. We flourish during this time and we are likely to want to socialise and engage in high energy tasks. Achievement may be the theme of this phase as our productivity peaks.

"As we enter autumn our energy declines and we may become more inward focused. We may be prone to criticism of self and others. 

“Investing time into understanding your hormones (whether you menstruate or not!)  means you are better placed to create a life of intention,” continues Alice.

"Weaving in your understanding of any pre-existing health issues can further empower you to understand links between your cycle and your symptoms. Furthermore, becoming trauma informed allows you to understand the unique role trauma has in hormonal health physiology further tailoring your lifestyle to your personal needs.”

Alice Free is a functional wellness coaching and trauma informed healthcare 

@compassionatewellness_

www.compassionatewellness.co.uk 

Eastern Daily Press: Victoria Howell provides one to one menopause support and menopause training in the workplace

Navigating the Menopause Maze: A Roadmap for Professional Support

While often shrouded in whispers and misinformation, menopause is a natural biological transition affecting half the population.

Its diverse presentation challenges traditional models of womanhood, demanding a shift in awareness and professional support.

Victoria Howell, a nurse with a specialist professional interest in menopause, tells us “gone are the stereotypes of menopause as solely hot flushes and older women."

"It can arrive at any point, weaving a tapestry of symptoms like anxiety, fatigue, and joint pain, often masking its hormonal origins beneath the cloak of regular periods. This ambiguity can leave women disoriented, struggling to decipher the messages their bodies are sending.”

But fear not, professional guidance awaits!

Victoria explains: "Tracking symptoms through a personal log unlocks essential patterns and triggers, providing clinicians with invaluable data.

"Consulting a menopause-trained professional becomes your roadmap, navigating the hormonal labyrinth with expertise and evidence-based practices.

The question of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) arises frequently. While a valuable option for some, it's a personal decision requiring informed exploration.

“Resources like Women's Health Concern empower women with reliable information on risks, benefits, and alternative strategies. Knowledge is power, and informed choices lead to optimal well-being,” Victoria tells us.

“Beyond medical interventions, prioritizing holistic well-being is crucial. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and strong social connections provide the bedrock for resilience. Self-care, often neglected in our whirlwind lives, becomes the Armor against the challenges of menopause.

"Schedule that massage, indulge in a relaxing walk, and nurture your mind and body – it's not indulgence, it's an investment in strength and vitality.” 

Finally, beware of the sirens of misinformation.

Victoria advises: “Seek support only from registered clinicians, whose expertise and credentials provide a beacon of reliable guidance. We, the qualified professionals, stand ready to answer your questions, dispel myths, and empower you to navigate this transition with confidence and grace."

"Menopause is not a destination, but a journey. With professional support, informed choices, and a commitment to self-care, it can be navigated with strength, understanding, and a renewed sense of purpose. Trust the map, seek expert counsel, and remember, you are not alone.”

Victoria Howell RNA provides one to one menopause support and menopause training in the workplace.

info@norfolkmeno.co.uk

www.victoriahowellmenopauseservices.com

For more wellbeing guidance head to https://feelgoodnorfolk.co.uk/feel-good-club/ and join their free Feel Good Club.