Through menopause with yogaMenopause is an important part of a woman's life, affecting her for many years – at least for about two-thirds of women. It is estimated that one-third of all women experience no symptoms at all, one-third moderate, and one-third severe. Incidentally, there is also menopause in men, which occurs more subtly in the body than in women, but often manifests outwardly as a desire to be young again. Both sexes suffer from depression and unclear emotional states, which manifest themselves in ups and downs in mood.
Emotional chaos of menopause
While women experience menopause more clearly physically, many men fail to realize that their changed behavior may also be related to it. For example, a man might get on his old motorcycle after many years because he simply wants to experience it again and suppress his insecurities and fears, while his wife might be fighting back tears and a real or very vague feeling of anxiety. These are, of course, just a few of the many possibilities. For many people, menopause also coincides with the children growing up and moving out. So everything happens at once – and suddenly it's all too much.
Years of searching for meaning
Yoga has a balancing effect, there's no question about that. While the asanas and physical exercises bring balance to the body, breathing exercises and meditation allow us to find inner peace. Breathe deeply and let go of our thoughts, simply be with ourselves and escape the noise of the world – it's not for nothing that middle age is a time of search for meaning for some people. What did I do before I had children? What am I still interested in now? What kind of life can I rebuild from today? Some women restart their careers after parental leave and part-time jobs, perhaps even becoming independent. During these years, both men and women find their way to a monastery – not as new members, but to take advantage of the peace and quiet it offers. Threshold experiences are also part of this "changing" time.
Growing older in a sporty and relaxed way
In middle age, we transition from being relatively young to being older. We can stay young inside, keep our bodies and minds flexible and fit with exercise, a healthy diet, and a keen curiosity about the world – it doesn't change the fact that our bodies gradually age. But the saying goes: If you don't want to grow old, you'll have to die sooner. And who would want that?!
Swimming, cycling, walking, and many other sports are suitable for our transition periods. For yoga, we only need a mat ; if necessary, we can use the carpet or the bare floor (for example, while on the go). Those who meditate frequently can choose a comfortable cushion or sit on a chair .
A book, a DVD, a TV show, or exercises learned in a course reliably guide us through these difficult years. Yoga regulates hormone levels, has a positive effect on the organs, and keeps the body fit. Digestion is also optimized—after all, the intestines (constipation) can also cause problems during menopause, as can the bladder (prolapse) or stomach (heartburn). Muscles, both large and small, are strengthened and keep the various components of our "inner life" in place.
If you don't want to practice alone, take a class. Some adult education centers offer special hormone yoga or menopausal yoga. You can try these, but you'll also feel comfortable in a regular yoga class. Asanas always help your hormones, but there are probably fewer exercises offered that directly target the pelvic area. Decide for yourself what works best for you. During menopause, inner balance and a certain serenity are especially important so that you can truly accept the changes in your body. You can find these psychological approaches in any good yoga class.
Image © markusgann / 123rf.com
