The Menopause & Me
Going through the menopause and getting older (there, I said it! I am 57 after all!) has taught me a great deal about the need to look after myself and make time for self-care.
Of course, getting older is totally different from getting old! I am not admitting to that for a long time yet!
Before the menopause, I was always on the go, burning the candle at both ends, late beds, early mornings and to be honest, I didn’t value myself enough to take the time to care for me.
I thought I was invincible!
And then there was a period of time, when I was peri-menopausal that I actually thought I was loosing my mind - in fact I think my GP thought that too - she didn't give me HRT, she gave me anti-depressants and not knowing any better, I took them. It wasn't until 2017 that a new GP prescribed me HRT. I still wasn't looking after myself any better though.
Reflecting on my menopause journey, if I have learned one thing from the years, actually 12 years in total, that I have struggled being peri-menopausal and going through the menopause, and now being post-menopausal, is that this body of mine is the only one I have, the only one I am ever going to have. I love it and I am amazed at what it can deal with, so I need to take the time to look after it and give it a good dose of TLC!
It’s my responsibility.
Exercise, early nights, less alcohol, healthier diet – its all there for the taking!
I have also learned from my knowledge and personal experience during this time that massage has an amazing number of benefits to offer peri menopausal women and menopausal women, and those of us who are now post-menopausal. I make a monthly massage a priority for myself now!
What about you?
I have written this blog to help you make up your mind about regular massage, and the positive impact it will have on how you are feeling, using my knowledge and experience as a holistic therapist working with women, and as someone who has travelled this road herself!
Note: When I use the words “menopause” and “menopausal” from now on, please read it as whatever stage you are at in your menopausal journey – from peri to post!
Massage and the Menopause
Aromatherapy massage is a holistic therapeutic treatment that can help with many varied symptoms in life, and the side effects experienced from perimenopause, through menopause and into your post menopausal life are no exception.
Studies have shown that the benefits of massage specifically on women experiencing menopause have helped their symptoms. I also hear this from the women who visit my therapy room for massage on a regular basis.
Most women go through menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can be earlier and later – it is a very individual process.
And when women enter perimenopause, oestrogen levels start to drop, leading to menopause as ovulation and periods cease.
Over this period of change, women can experience a whole range of symptoms and side effects, physical and emotional.
These can be:
Heavy and/or irregular periods
Hot flushes
Low mood, depression and anxiety
Memory and concentration problems aka "Brain Fog"
Joint pain
Night sweats
Difficulty sleeping
Vaginal dryness
Loss of libido
Headaches
Breast pain
Muscle tension
Osteoporosis
Fatigue
This is not an exclusive list!
Some say there are 34 symptoms, some say 48 different symptoms, and some say even more.
Lets just say there are many!
And it can be really scary.
And it is often at a time of life when women are caring both for elderly parents and teenage children, and even grandchildren. Throw in work and normal life and it is no wonder that women can feel constantly overwhelmed and stressed.
So, can massage really relieve symptoms associated with menopause?
Perimenopause and menopause are significant transitional phases in a woman’s life, often accompanied by a range of physical and emotional changes.
One effective way to manage these changes is through aromatherapy massage.
My signature aromatherapy massage can be tailored to your specific needs and is designed to address some of the most common symptoms and discomforts associated with menopause.
Let’s explore what my Signature Aromatherapy Massage is and how it can help with the menopause.
Aromatherapy massage is a therapeutic treatment using essential oils bespoke to your specific needs and can be tailored specifically for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. It incorporates a variety of massage techniques to alleviate symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and muscle pain. The goal is to provide relief, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being during this transitional period.
How does massage help menopausal symptoms?
It relieves physical discomfort
Is getting out of the chair or out of bed not as easy as it used to be? Do you find yourself having a wee groan as you get to your feet?
Many women experience muscle tension and joint pain during menopause. Aromatherapy massage targets these areas, using gentle yet effective techniques to relax muscles and reduce pain. Regular sessions can significantly decrease muscle stiffness and joint aches, making daily activities more comfortable.
Reduces stress and anxiety
Do you often feel like you are carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? You may even be worrying about many things that you have absolutely no control over.
Hormonal changes during menopause often lead to heightened stress and anxiety. Massage helps lower cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone, through soothing strokes and gentle pressure. This process calms the mind, reducing feelings of anxiety and promoting a sense of peace and well-being.
Improves Sleep Quality
Are you lying awake in the middle of the night with a million things on your mind?
Sleep disturbances are common during menopause, often caused by night sweats and hormonal fluctuations. An aromatherapy massage can help improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. The calming effects of massage can help you fall asleep more easily and enjoy deeper, more restful sleep.
Enhances Circulation
Do you sometimes feel that your joints, especially your ankles, wrists, and fingers feel like they are swollen and puffy?
Good circulation is vital for overall health, especially during menopause. Aromatherapy massage stimulates blood flow, which can help reduce swelling, improve skin tone, and boost energy levels. Enhanced circulation also aids in the removal of toxins from the body, contributing to better health and vitality.
Keeping that BP down
Do you suffer from high blood pressure? Or even suspect you may do?
First of all, its simple to get it checked -so if in doubt, you can get this done easily at your local pharmacy, at your GP, practice nurse or some surgeries even have self-testing facilities – we won’t get into that here!
Blood pressure can rise in menopausal women. Whether that’s through the change in hormones, increased stress or because woman have a tendency to put weight on during this time, and it is something you need to watch out for – especially if you’re on HRT, because that can also have an impact.
Researchers have found that people receiving regular massage had lower levels of blood pressure.
Supports hormonal balance
Are your hormones all over the shop?
While massage cannot directly alter hormone levels, it can help the body manage these changes more effectively. By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, massage therapy can support hormonal balance, easing symptoms like mood swings and irritability.
Boosts mood and emotional well-being
Crying one moment, laughing the next? Maybe just feeling a little down or out of balance?
Menopause can have a significant emotional impact, with many women experiencing mood swings, depression, and irritability. Massage helps boost mood by increasing the production of serotonin and dopamine, the body’s feel-good hormones. Regular massage sessions can enhance emotional well-being, helping you feel more positive and balanced.
Provides a Sense of Connection
Just not sure what’s going on with your body?
Menopause can sometimes make women feel isolated or disconnected from their bodies. Massage offers a way to reconnect with your body in a positive and nurturing way. The physical touch and care involved in massage can foster a sense of connection and self-acceptance, which is vital during this life stage.
In summary, massage has so many benefits that it should, without a doubt, be on a menopausal woman’s self-care list.
What to Expect During an Aromatherapy Massage for Menopause at Fiona Dalziel Holistic Therapy
Massage is a powerful tool for managing the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause. By addressing symptoms such as muscle pain, stress, sleep disturbances, and hormonal imbalances, massage therapy can significantly improve quality of life during this transitional period. If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms, consider trying aromatherapy massage to experience its many benefits for yourself.
My therapy room is a serene and intimate space, designed to nurture your mind, body, and soul. My approach is rooted in compassion and empathy, ensuring that each session is tailored to meet your unique needs and facilitate your journey toward wellness and inner peace.
When you book an Aromatherapy massage, I will start your session with a consultation to understand your specific symptoms and needs. This will allow me to tailor the session specifically to you, and to blend an aromatherapy massage oil using essential oils to provide the most benefit to you in your session.
During your massage, you will lie on my warm and comfortable therapy bed, where you can unwind, rejuvenate, and reconnect with yourself whilst experiencing the profound benefits of heart-centred healing.
If you have never experienced a massage before, my blog "Do I need to take my bra off?" is a great guide on what to expect.
What are you waiting for?
Your mind, body and soul will thank you.
Much love, Fiona x
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