Natural remedies to help menopause symptoms
Hot flushes, hormonal imbalances, emotional turmoil, mood swings..... Sound like fun? I don't think so, and I'm sure there are many women who would agree! If you are struggling with any of the symptoms of menopause or any form of hormonal imbalance I have a few practical tips to share with you. By trying some of our natural remedies to help menopause symptoms you will hopefully be able to help yourself to take back some control of your body and bring some "normality" back in your life.
It's certainly not a very sexy topic and still to this day, one that is not discussed freely and openly. Let's face it, it can feel like a bit of a kick in the teeth and kind of a reminder to say that you have passed your use-by date!
Added to this, many women in western society are also now challenged with the increase of breast cancer diagnosis. According to the Australian Institute of Health and welfare (http://www.aihw.gov.au/) the projected number of new cases of breast cancer diagnosed in 2015 is 15,740. When breast cancer is diagnosed, the cancer is tested to determine what it is receptive to. Once this has been established it can then be determined which treatment is most suitable. Having a cancer which is hormone receptor positive will usually lead to having a chemically induced menopause. Often the symptoms of menopause can be heightened and exaggerated when this occurs. Breast cancer patients obviously do not want to risk recurrence of their cancer so therefore there are restrictions on what treatments or supplements they can take to help reduce the symptoms of menopause. (Please note, our recommendations below are all safe and natural, however please consult your specialist if you have any concerns or queries about these).
Whether menopause is chemically induced, or occurs through a natural process how can women take back some control with what is happening to their bodies? We need to embrace the changes, expect the unexpected, be kind to ourselves and support each other. (As well as being mindful of our partners who also have the challenge of coping with the changes that are taking place with us.....they often don't understand what's happening either!)
Here are some things which may help. There are no promises that the symptoms will completely disappear, however you will hopefully get a little relief and have a sense of empowerment that you can actually make a difference whilst your body is undergoing major changes.
Coriander Water: A great Ayurvedic remedy to help those unbearable hot flushes when you feel like you are about to internally combust! Place 2 tablespoons of coriander seeds in a medium size saucepan of water. Bring to the boil and continue to boil for 1-2 minutes. Strain the water into a flask and then sip the water throughout the day. In particular when you feel a hot flush coming on, have a sip and you will find that it will subside....This made a huge difference to me!
Avoid stress, we know that is easier said than done, however if you observe what raises your anxiety and stress levels you can then make choices to avoid some of these contributing factors.
When the mixed emotions, crazy thoughts and highly uncomfortable physical symptoms arise, try not to get caught up in them. Step back, observe from a distance, just watch what is happening rather than getting involved.
At night, sleep with a gentle fan on in the room. Having air circulating around you helps to minimize the hot flushes.
Avoid coffee and alcohol (this may be a difficult one for some of you, however you will notice a difference if you can minimize these things).
Drink herbal teas.
Eat light meals, particularly at night, avoid spicy food and any processed foods. Keep it fresh and simple.
Choose foods that are cooling and moist in nature.
Regular exercise, choose outside in the fresh air when possible.
Yoga -a must!
Meditation....It does work! If you are having difficulties to meditate, find a teacher or mentor to help you. Remember there is nothing mystical or weird about meditation, it's just spending time in stillness, both mind and body. Commit to it every day.
Daily routine - In particular your morning routine is very important (we will give you some further suggestions about this soon). Start the day in peace with a sense of calm. My recommendation would be to get up half an hour earlier than your usual time, this is then Your time, for You.
Wear light comfortable clothes and avoid clothes that are synthetic and tight fitting.
Take each moment one at a time.
Be kind to your Self.
